bluntly discussing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bluntly discussing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a straightforward and direct manner of talking about a topic, often without sugarcoating or softening the message. Example: "During the meeting, we were bluntly discussing the challenges our team is facing and the need for immediate solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"You are sitting three feet away" from a convicted killer, while bluntly discussing his impending death, Mr. Herzog said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In the premiere Jim dragoons Steve into helping him take Billy to a prostitute for his first sex, an act that is bluntly discussed.

The New York Times - Arts

He gave reporters free access to meetings in which the bleak progress of the drive against the Taliban was bluntly discussed.

The Economist

Additionally, some black Americans are offended when they hear Trump bluntly discuss impoverished inner cities, the low-skilled labor force, and the benefits of stop and frisk.

Vice

M&G itself bluntly refuses to discuss Woolnought's remuneration.

The Guardian - Business

At the same time, and although today he bluntly refuses to discuss the myriad hypocrisies of international aid and the hidden stings in debt relief – "I don't want to conflate it with me trying to flog a record.

The Guardian

"The gentlemen were standing together, or sitting together", Eichmann said, "and were discussing the subject quite bluntly, quite differently from the language which I had to use later in the record.

Wikipedia

Footballers are not usually comfortable discussing psychological frailty, but Gerrard is bluntly candid.

The Guardian - Sport

Her Condoleezza Rice — leaning forward in her chair, brow furrowed, quietly discussing duty and sacrifice — is particularly good, even if her words sound too bluntly scripted.

The New York Times

While discussing the singer's weight gain on an episode of the show, Kelly bluntly said, "She called me fat for so many f***ing years.

Huffington Post

Tova, who experienced issues with discussing sex and politics with mental health professionals in the past, put the process rather bluntly: "Choosing a mental health professional is like Tinder Health".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bluntly discussing" when you want to emphasize the direct and honest nature of a conversation, especially when sensitive or difficult topics are being addressed. Ensure the context supports the need for such directness.

Common error

Avoid using "bluntly discussing" in contexts that require diplomacy or sensitivity. Overusing it can make you appear rude or insensitive, especially when addressing delicate topics with individuals who may be easily offended. In such situations, consider using more tactful alternatives such as "frankly addressing" or "openly debating".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bluntly discussing" functions as a gerund phrase, often used to describe a manner of communication in a specific context. It indicates the act of engaging in a discussion with a high degree of directness and candor, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bluntly discussing" is a gerund phrase used to describe a direct and honest conversation, especially regarding sensitive or difficult topics. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and mostly found in news and media contexts. While the phrase emphasizes transparency, it's crucial to use it judiciously to avoid sounding insensitive. Alternatives such as "frankly addressing" or "openly debating" can provide similar meanings with varying degrees of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bluntly addressing

Similar to the original but uses 'addressing' instead of 'discussing'.

straightforwardly discussing

Emphasizes the direct and uncomplicated nature of the discussion.

frankly addressing

Focuses on honesty and openness in dealing with a topic.

forthrightly discussing

Emphasizes the direct and uncompromising nature of the discussion.

openly debating

Highlights the public and transparent nature of the discussion.

directly confronting

Emphasizes a face-to-face and possibly challenging discussion.

candidly exploring

Stresses honesty and in-depth examination of a topic.

forthrightly examining

Highlights a straightforward and thorough analysis.

plainly stating

Emphasizes simplicity and clarity in the communication.

honestly considering

Focuses on the sincerity and thoughtfulness of the discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "bluntly discussing" in a sentence?

You can use "bluntly discussing" to describe a situation where a topic is being addressed directly and without hesitation. For example, "The committee was bluntly discussing the budget cuts and their potential impact".

What are some alternatives to "bluntly discussing"?

Some alternatives to "bluntly discussing" include "frankly addressing", "openly debating", or "straightforwardly discussing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "bluntly discussing"?

It is appropriate to use "bluntly discussing" when the situation calls for directness and honesty, especially when addressing sensitive or difficult issues. However, be mindful of the context and the potential impact on your audience.

What is the difference between "bluntly discussing" and "casually discussing"?

"Bluntly discussing" implies a direct, often serious, and potentially uncomfortable conversation, while "casually discussing" suggests a relaxed and informal exchange. The choice depends on the tone and context you wish to convey.