a sharp conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

"a sharp conversation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a conversation that is tense, filled with disagreement or heated emotions. Example: The two politicians engaged in a sharp conversation during the debate, with each one fiercely defending their opposing viewpoints.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Several officials noted that Ms. Rice and Mr. Rumsfeld, who had a sharp conversation Monday morning about news reports about the group, are of different generations.

The New York Times

Show her that you like to tease her, have her tease you, and keep up your end of a sharp conversation.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He added: "The fundamental cause of the crisis lies within the region not outside it". Blair has been widely criticized for his comments in the U.K., where there's a sharper conversation on the consequences of the Iraq war and the reasons invoked more than a decade ago to justify the invasion.

The Washington Post

The purpose of this unique experience (which we signed on to, he as much as tells us, by reading the book) is to make us see the practical value of testing and introspecting our beliefs and ponderings through a congenial but sharp conversation with ourselves and others.

Johns Hopkins University

His best games are akin to sharp conversation with a deft mind, no extra language.

Vice

No longer are they the beating heart of many communities, filled with sharp conversation, cheap pints and good atmosphere, steeped in our collective nostalgia.

The Guardian - Opinion

The chair hit the stone floor with such a sharp crack it stopped conversation at nearby tables, and I do not think I imagined that there was an instant when patrons looked poised to run for cover or the door.

The New York Times - Travel

He led the conversation with a sharp intelligence, laughing at jokes, struggling to give an absurd conceit logical consistency.

The New Yorker

The two men drinking coffee at the table next to me were talking about hunting mountain lions when the conversation took a sharp turn — to hunting hogs.

The New York Times

But somewhere between the baby name game and the gifts, what had been light conversation took a sharp turn toward the personal and political — specifically, the battle over access to birth control and other women's health issues that have sprung to life on the Republican campaign trail in recent weeks.

The New York Times

Behind the difference lies a sharp scholarly dispute, as recent conversations with some of the combatants revealed.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sharp conversation" when you want to emphasize the intellectual rigor or potential tension present in the exchange. Ensure that the context supports this interpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "a sharp conversation" when a more neutral or positive tone is intended. Ensure the context doesn't suggest simple disagreement, which might be better described as "a difference of opinion."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp conversation" functions as a noun phrase, with "sharp" modifying the noun "conversation". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It refers to a specific type of interaction characterized by intensity, focus, or potential disagreement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sharp conversation" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that describes an intense, focused, and potentially argumentative discussion. Ludwig AI confirms this. While not extremely common, its usage is consistent across News & Media, Wiki, and Academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context reflects the intended intensity and potential for disagreement. Alternative phrases like ""a heated exchange"" or ""an intense discussion"" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heated exchange

Emphasizes the emotional intensity and potential disagreement involved.

an intense discussion

Focuses on the high level of engagement and intellectual rigor.

a spirited debate

Highlights the energetic and potentially argumentative nature.

a contentious dialogue

Stresses the presence of conflict and opposing viewpoints.

a rigorous interrogation

Suggests a probing and potentially adversarial questioning process.

a frank discussion

Implies honesty and directness, possibly involving difficult topics.

a critical analysis

Focuses on the detailed evaluation and assessment of a subject.

a pointed discussion

Emphasizes that the discussion contains direct or critical remarks.

an animated discussion

Highlights the lively and enthusiastic nature of the conversation.

a brisk exchange

Suggests a quick and efficient but potentially curt interaction.

FAQs

How can I use "a sharp conversation" in a sentence?

You can use "a sharp conversation" to describe a discussion that is intense, focused, and potentially argumentative. For example: "The debate was characterized by "a sharp conversation" between the candidates on economic policy."

What are some alternatives to "a sharp conversation"?

Alternatives include "a heated exchange", "an intense discussion", or "a spirited debate", depending on the specific nuances you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a sharp conversation"?

Use "a sharp conversation" when the discussion involves strong opinions, detailed analysis, or a potentially confrontational dynamic. It's suitable when the exchange goes beyond casual dialogue.

What's the difference between "a sharp conversation" and "a casual discussion"?

"A sharp conversation" implies intensity, focus, and possibly disagreement, while "a casual discussion" suggests a relaxed and informal exchange without significant tension or depth.