a useful conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a discussion that provides valuable insights or information. Example: "After our meeting, I felt that we had a useful conversation about the project's direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The abundant doomsday plotlines in "The World Without Us" make it a useful conversation piece, if a grim one.

The New York Times - Books

That, at least, represents the beginning of a useful conversation.

The New York Times

Most of the time other people have the same ones and it becomes a useful conversation for the group.

Columbia University

"So…the question of the hipster is more frequently answered with tongue-in-cheek jokes or irony which also prevent a useful conversation from emerging".

The New Yorker

It might even talk to your iPhone, though it's hard to imagine what kind of a useful conversation the two might have.

The New York Times

The story has also led to what I think is a useful conversation about institutional cultures that somehow evolve to permit, or at least ignore, such abuses.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

While I dispute that any useful conversation has ever taken place at four in the morning, Strummer was right that, around the fire, the classes and social types mix.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This has been a really useful conversation.

Harvard Business Review

Talking about "red" is nearly always a more useful conversation than talking about "green".

Harvard Business Review

We both laughed, and then we had a very useful conversation.

Harvard Business Review

If you have filled in the checklist before making a call to an ASAP or home care agency, you will be able to have a more useful conversation, and move ahead with making decisions about home care services.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a useful conversation", ensure the context clarifies what made the conversation useful. Be specific about the outcomes or benefits derived from it.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a conversation was "a useful conversation" without explaining why it was useful. Provide context or details that support the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful conversation" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of interaction characterized by its beneficial nature. Ludwig AI affirms the phrase's grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a useful conversation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a beneficial exchange of ideas or information. Ludwig AI highlights its versatility and appropriateness across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. When employing this phrase, remember to provide context about what made the conversation valuable, avoiding overuse without substantiation. Consider using alternatives like "a valuable conversation" or "a productive conversation" for nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable conversation

Emphasizes the importance and worth of the conversation.

a productive conversation

Focuses on the output and results achieved during the conversation.

an informative discussion

Highlights the educational and knowledge-sharing aspect of the conversation.

a fruitful exchange

Suggests that the conversation yielded positive outcomes or benefits.

a meaningful dialogue

Implies a deep and significant connection established through the conversation.

a constructive discussion

Focuses on the positive and helpful nature of the conversation.

a beneficial discussion

Highlights the advantageous or helpful aspects of the conversation.

a helpful discussion

Focuses specifically on the assistance provided by the discussion.

a worthwhile exchange

Emphasizes that the conversation was time well spent.

a practical conversation

Focuses on the pragmatic and actionable aspects of the conversation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful conversation" to describe a discussion that provided valuable insights or information. For example, "After the workshop, we had "a useful conversation" about implementing the new strategies."

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

You can use alternatives like "a valuable conversation", "a productive conversation", or "an informative discussion depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a useful conversation" or "a helpful conversation"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but ""a useful conversation"" generally implies that the discussion provided valuable insights or information, while "a helpful conversation" suggests that the discussion offered practical assistance or solutions. The better choice depends on the specific context.

What makes a conversation "a useful conversation"?

A conversation can be considered ""a useful conversation"" if it leads to new understanding, provides practical solutions, clarifies complex issues, or fosters collaboration and progress.