a spirited conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a spirited conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lively, animated, or enthusiastic discussion between people. Example: "During the dinner party, we had a spirited conversation about our favorite books and authors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Oudin elicited a spirited conversation in the room that afternoon.

The New York Times - Sports

He walked with Ms. Graves to the theater where they had a spirited conversation.

The New York Times

My best friend and I are having a spirited conversation about corn cushions.

The New York Times - Health

Right foot and left foot traded rhythms as if engaged in a spirited conversation.

The New York Times - Arts

The two had a spirited conversation afterward, and Prendergast again imagined the possibility of working in government.

The New York Times - Magazine

At a dinner party he upends a spirited conversation by suddenly spewing venom on his wife's guests.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Two young businessmen were sharing a meal and spirited conversation at a nearby table.

Huffington Post

But inside a 1920's brick home, in a recreation room with tables and backgammon boards, a group's spirited conversation seemed to infuse the surroundings with a warm glow.

The New York Times

I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to cancel men so we can have a frank and spirited conversation about how to behave like good people.

Huffington Post

In a cozy side room we shared a long table (and some spirited conversation) with a local hiking club.

The New York Times - Travel

An attache of a broadcasting studio was endeavoring by spirited conversation to keep a pianist, who was to go on the air shortly, from becoming nervous.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a spirited conversation" to depict an engaging and lively discussion, particularly when emphasizing the enthusiasm and energy of the participants.

Common error

While "a spirited conversation" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "a lively discussion" or "an engaging exchange" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a spirited conversation" functions as a noun phrase, where "spirited" modifies the noun "conversation". It typically acts as the subject or object of a verb, describing the nature of the discussion. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Huffington Post

12%

The New York Times

8%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a spirited conversation" is a grammatically correct and common phrase used to describe a lively and engaging discussion. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is most frequently found in News & Media contexts. While generally acceptable, it's crucial to consider the formality of the writing context and opt for more neutral terms if needed. Alternatives include "a lively discussion" or "an animated exchange". Ludwig confirms the phrase's effective usage for depicting enthusiastic and energetic interactions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lively discussion

Replaces "conversation" with "discussion" and "spirited" with "lively", emphasizing the dynamic nature of the exchange.

a high-spirited discussion

Uses “high-spirited” to express the liveliness.

an animated exchange

Substitutes "spirited" with "animated" and "conversation" with "exchange", highlighting the vibrant and energetic nature of the interaction.

an enthusiastic dialogue

Replaces "spirited" with "enthusiastic" and "conversation" with "dialogue", focusing on the eagerness and engagement in the discussion.

a vigorous debate

Changes "conversation" to "debate" and "spirited" to "vigorous", implying a more formal and potentially argumentative discussion.

a dynamic discussion

Replaces "spirited" with "dynamic", highlighting the interactive and evolving nature of the exchange.

a passionate exchange

Substitutes "spirited" with "passionate", suggesting a strong emotional investment in the conversation.

a heated discussion

Replaces "spirited" with "heated", implying a high level of intensity and potential disagreement.

a vibrant exchange of ideas

Adds "of ideas" to clarify the topic and uses "vibrant" to convey energy.

an intense discussion

Uses "intense" to reflect a serious, focused conversation.

FAQs

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

"A spirited conversation" is used to describe a lively and engaging discussion. For example: "They had "a spirited conversation" about the latest scientific breakthroughs."

What can I say instead of "a spirited conversation"?

You can use alternatives like "a lively discussion", "an animated exchange", or "an enthusiastic dialogue" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a spirited conversation" and "a heated conversation"?

"A spirited conversation" implies enthusiasm and energy, while "a heated conversation" suggests strong emotions and potential disagreement. The former is generally more positive in tone.

Is "a spirited conversation" appropriate for formal writing?

While acceptable, "a spirited conversation" may be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "a detailed discussion" or "an engaging exchange" for a more professional tone.