absence of discourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absence of discourse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a lack of communication or discussion on a particular topic. Example: "The absence of discourse on climate change in the community has led to a lack of awareness and action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"The absence of discourse or knowledge of the many intricate issues surrounding sexual violence is problematic because it, implicitly, strengthens rape myths".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

More recently, however, writers have documented the absence of queer desires from sex education programmes (Harrison, Hillier, and Walsh 1996; Rasmussen 2004; Allen 2007) and the absence of discourses of masculine desire that imagines male pleasure in diverse, holistic and equitable ways (Allen 2004, 2005, 2007; Beasley 2008).

Culture, Health and Sexuality

We will also read key texts to discover the place or absence of a discourse on developmentalism in the historiography of 20th century Latin American architecture.

Columbia University

While the criminal justice system has become increasingly more willing to incarcerate women, there remains a pronounced absence of public discourse on the subject as well as a paucity of scholarship in the human sciences.

The New York Times

But what surprised many was the absence of religious discourse — and the embrace of pluralism — from a generation that is more observant than its parents and often seeks solace from despotic rulers and blighted lives in an embrace of Islam.

The New York Times

"It is clear after nearly two weeks of outrage, indignation, upset, threats of withdrawal of support and loyalty, that the people of the University of Virginia, and their ideas, which together comprise the University much more than buildings or landscapes, regard the decision as a mistake made in the absence of open discourse and courtesy," they wrote.

The Washington Post

The intensity of the issue and its profound symbolism virtually ensures the absence of rational discourse.

HuffPost

The absence of public discourse on the issue of gun control has been truly deafening.

Huffington Post

In the absence of any positive discourse about Europe, it is probably fear of the unknown that will keep us together.

The Guardian - Opinion

Celebrated lesbian author Rita Mae Brown also reappropriated the Lavender Scare as a proud member of the Lavender Menace, a coalition of radical feminists who protested against the absence of lesbian feminist discourse at the Second Congress to Unite Women in New York City in 1970.

Vice

"The lack of discourse, the absence of explanation and the 'closed door' atmosphere of USC Athletics is unfamiliar and frankly disconcerting," Chespak wrote.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "absence of discourse" when you want to emphasize not just a lack of conversation, but also the absence of structured or meaningful exchange on a specific topic. It is particularly appropriate in academic or formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "absence of discourse" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "lack of discussion" or "no conversation" are often more appropriate and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absence of discourse" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig, it signifies the non-existence of meaningful communication or discussion on a particular topic.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "absence of discourse" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that signifies the lack of meaningful communication on a particular subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase appears most frequently in news and media, science, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. While it effectively highlights a deficiency in discussion, simpler alternatives like "lack of discussion" or "no conversation" may be more suitable for informal settings. Using "absence of discourse" emphasizes the importance of open and thorough communication in addressing critical issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of dialogue

Replaces "absence" with "lack" and "discourse" with "dialogue", implying a deficiency in conversational exchange.

paucity of discussion

Substitutes "absence" with "paucity", highlighting a scarcity of discussion.

dearth of conversation

Emphasizes a severe lack of conversation using the word "dearth".

lack of communication

Replaces "discourse" with the broader term "communication", indicating a general deficiency in conveying information.

silence on the matter

Shifts the focus to a complete lack of expression or discussion regarding a specific subject.

suppression of dialogue

Suggests that discourse is being intentionally prevented or stifled.

lack of open forum

Indicates no available venue or platform where discourse can happen.

inability to discuss

Highlights an inherent or circumstantial impediment for communication.

non-existence of communication

Emphasizes a complete lack of communication.

void of any discourse

Draws attention to an emphatic absence of discourse.

FAQs

How can I use "absence of discourse" in a sentence?

You can use "absence of discourse" to describe situations where there is a notable lack of communication or meaningful discussion about a particular topic. For example: "The "absence of discourse" surrounding mental health in the workplace can lead to stigma and a lack of support for employees".

What are some alternatives to "absence of discourse"?

Some alternatives include "lack of discussion", "paucity of dialogue", or "dearth of conversation". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "absence of discourse" formal or informal?

"Absence of discourse" leans towards the formal side. In less formal settings, consider using phrases like "lack of talk" or "no discussion".

What's the difference between "absence of discourse" and "lack of communication"?

"Absence of discourse" specifically refers to the lack of structured or meaningful exchange, while "lack of communication" is a broader term that encompasses any failure to convey information, ideas, or feelings.