broach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broach" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a topic or raising a subject for discussion, often something sensitive or difficult. Example: "I wanted to broach the subject of our budget cuts during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Open-access requirements are on the horizon, so broach them with the publisher.

The Guardian

More likely, if the mandate would be struck down, the financial burden of health care costs would keep rising exponentially for the next 20 years, or however long it would take for scaredy-cats in Congress to broach the dangerous issue of comprehensive health care reform again.

The Guardian

So, as you seat yourself for breakfast muffins, take the time to broach the subjects of jamming with Jimi Hendrix, working at Epic Records, overseeing the soundtrack for the film Rock Star and having 25 gold and platinum records.

The Guardian - Travel

Although there are countervailing arguments Mr Hague's critics retort that the police had good reason to alter their behaviour after the abuses and incompetence uncovered by Lord Macpherson this is surely the sort of issue politicians should be allowed to broach without being muzzled.

The Economist

These are those of an ethical nature, which pop up whenever scientists broach the nature-nurture nexus.

The Economist

The tattooist, whose silk paintings are now on display at London's Somerset House, keeps his own painted "body armour" well hidden beneath a pale-blue seersucker suit with a diamanté broach on the lapel.

The Economist

It is possible that in the margins of the talks in Baghdad American and Iranian envoys could broach such broader questions, including the nuclear one.

The Economist

On June 27th, the heads of the countries' diplomatic services are to meet and broach the subject of Kashmir.

The Economist

And even some of the party-owned media outlets for instance, Kurdsat TV, owned and run by Mr Talabani's modernising wife, Herro occasionally broach topics that were once taboo.Especially compared with the rest of Iraq, Kurdistan has been making strides on every front.

The Economist

One rightist political party, Yisrael Beiteinu, has already left Ehud Olmert's governing coalition and another, the religious Shas, threatens to do so if the talks broach the sharing of Jerusalem, as they eventually must.

The Economist

She had "a glare that could wilt a cactus" according to a writer in Time, and wore a broach in the shape of a dollar sign.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "broach" when you want to introduce a sensitive or difficult topic carefully. It suggests a thoughtful and considerate approach to beginning a discussion.

Common error

While "broach" is appropriate in formal settings, it can sound stilted in casual conversations. Choose a simpler alternative like "bring up" or "mention" in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

Broach primarily functions as a verb, meaning to introduce a subject, especially one that is sensitive or difficult to discuss. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for introducing topics. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, often involving delicate or challenging issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "broach" is a grammatically sound verb, frequently used to introduce a topic, especially one of a sensitive nature. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While it appears most often in News & Media and Encyclopedias, its register ranges from neutral to formal. To avoid sounding stilted, especially in casual settings, consider alternatives like "bring up" or "mention". Whether you're writing a news article or initiating a difficult conversation, understanding the nuances of "broach" can enhance your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bring up the subject

A more informal way to introduce a topic, suitable for casual conversation.

raise the issue

Implies bringing a matter to attention, often one that needs resolution.

introduce the topic

A neutral and straightforward way to start a discussion.

open the discussion

Suggests starting a conversation, especially in a formal setting.

initiate the conversation

Highlights the act of starting a dialogue, often on a specific matter.

touch on the matter

Suggests briefly mentioning something, without going into great detail.

allude to the subject

Indicates a subtle or indirect reference to a topic.

table the question

Means to postpone discussing a topic until a later time.

delve into the matter

Indicates an intention to investigate a subject thoroughly and deeply.

canvass the issue

Suggests exploring various aspects of a topic to gain a comprehensive understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "broach" in a sentence?

You can use "broach" to mean to introduce a subject, especially a sensitive one, for discussion. For example, "I didn't know how to broach the subject of his financial difficulties."

What can I say instead of "broach"?

You can use alternatives like "bring up the subject", "raise the issue", or "introduce the topic" depending on the context.

Is it better to "broach the subject" or "raise the topic"?

Both "broach the subject" and "raise the topic" are correct, but "broach the subject" implies a more delicate or sensitive approach to introducing the topic.

What's the difference between "broach" and "address" a topic?

"Broach" means to introduce a topic for discussion, while "address" means to deal with or discuss a topic directly. You "broach" a subject to begin talking about it, and then you "address" it by discussing it in detail.