an in-depth discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an in-depth discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a thorough and detailed conversation or examination of a particular topic. Example: "The conference will feature an in-depth discussion on climate change and its global impacts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Five or six minutes is too short for an in-depth discussion.

The New York Times - Sports

At least I wasn't until I started listening to an in-depth discussion of it.

The Guardian

The Jagger-Richards song Gimme Shelter comes in via an in-depth discussion of This Magic Moment by the Drifters.

The Guardian - Books

They then hold an in-depth discussion about the responsibility of the photojournalist and news editor to show "true" photos.

The New York Times

For an in-depth discussion of the major indigenous religions of India, see the articles Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Imagine a nuclear catastrophe that leads to an in-depth discussion of the limitations of haz-mat suits.

Independent

After all, what could be more romantic than an in-depth discussion of drooping erections and the sex lives of folks in Dumfries and Galloway?

The Guardian

"I think that a decision of such deep political importance should have required an in-depth discussion," said Fabrizio Cicchitto, one PdL MP.

The Guardian

The 16-page quarterly provides an in-depth discussion of a different supplement in each issue along with other information about the industry.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Menendez said he had decided to support the nominee, Magistrate Judge Patty Shwartz, after an "in-depth discussion" with her at a meeting on Friday.

The New York Times

The experience provided a memorable backdrop for an in-depth discussion, he added.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an in-depth discussion" when introducing a section or chapter that will thoroughly examine a specific topic. This sets expectations for detailed coverage.

Common error

Avoid using "an in-depth discussion" when a brief overview suffices. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose. Ensure that the level of detail matches the scope and purpose of your content.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an in-depth discussion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a thorough and detailed examination or conversation about a specific topic. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an in-depth discussion" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a thorough and detailed exploration of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English. It is particularly common in science and news media, and carries a neutral to formal tone. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "a thorough analysis" or "a detailed exploration", adjusting the emphasis based on the specific context. While valuable, the phrase should be used judiciously to ensure that the level of detail aligns with the overall scope of the content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorough analysis

Replaces "discussion" with "analysis", focusing on detailed examination rather than conversation.

a comprehensive examination

Substitutes "discussion" with "examination", highlighting a detailed inspection.

a detailed exploration

Changes "discussion" to "exploration", emphasizing discovery and investigation.

an extensive review

Replaces "discussion" with "review", suggesting a critical assessment of existing knowledge.

a profound analysis

Replaces "in-depth" with "profound", highlighting the depth and insight of the analysis.

an elaborate discourse

Substitutes "discussion" with "discourse", indicating a formal and lengthy conversation.

a complete rundown

Replaces "discussion" with "rundown", implying a thorough presentation of information.

a full-scale debate

Shifts the focus to a formal argument with opposing views.

a penetrating investigation

Emphasizes a sharp and thorough inquiry.

an exhaustive study

Highlights the completeness and thoroughness of a study.

FAQs

How can I use "an in-depth discussion" in a sentence?

You can use "an in-depth discussion" to introduce a segment of content that explores a subject thoroughly. For example, "The conference will feature "an in-depth discussion" on the effects of climate change."

What are some alternatives to "an in-depth discussion"?

Some alternatives include "a thorough analysis", "a comprehensive examination", or "a detailed exploration", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "an in-depth discussion" versus "a brief overview"?

Use "an in-depth discussion" when you need to explore a topic with significant detail and complexity. A "brief overview" is more suitable when only a general understanding is required.

What's the difference between "an in-depth discussion" and "an in-depth analysis"?

While both involve thoroughness, "an in-depth discussion" suggests a conversational or explanatory approach, whereas "an in-depth analysis" implies a more structured and critical examination of data or evidence.