broach a subject

USAGE SUMMARY

"broach a subject" is correct and usable in written English.
You typically use it as a way to introduce a new topic of conversation in a polite or sensitive manner. For example, "I was wondering if we could broach a subject of the upcoming budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

You broach a subject, but do not broach "with" something.

The New York Times

I think that's a strength for the players, because they're not afraid to approach me and broach a subject.

The New York Times - Sports

Jews have been deeply divided in their response to the proposal, and some rabbis are reluctant to broach a subject that might split their congregations — or seem to violate the holiness of the occasion.

The New York Times

It was rare for Obama to directly broach a subject that has caused him more political problems than benefit, but this was not another Obama race speech or his off-the-cuff comments about the arrest of a black Harvard professor in 2009.

The Washington Post

With any luck this may mean that, after next tackling middle age and retirement, this comic actor, who has made a career out of variations on the modern man-child, might soon be headed toward the great big cinematic beyond, thereby putting an end to his attempts to broach a subject profoundly unsuited to his talents: adulthood.

The New York Times

BAGHDAD — Iraq's prime minister, Nuri Kamal al-Maliki, has scheduled a visit to Iran later this week and is expected to broach a subject high on the agenda of American commanders here: the allegation that Iran is supporting the insurgency in Iraq with men and weapons.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Bao Pu, a publisher in Hong Kong, said party leaders had rejected the manuscript, presumably because it broached a subject that remains taboo here.

The New York Times

— Behind the closed door of a private study room in their campus library, three members of the College Republicans broached a subject that had become taboo among many of their friends: whether their club should publicly support Donald Trump.

The Washington Post

Douglas R. Forrester's Senate campaign broached a subject today that the Republicans have been toying with since former Senator Frank R. Lautenberg, 78, joined the race three weeks ago: Mr. Lautenberg's age and mental agility.

The New York Times

Ms. Hope (who is stepping down as state party leader) was only publicly broaching a subject others are whispering about: that the deconstruction of Mark Green in the mayoral race suggests that a white candidate has to walk on eggshells when running against a black or Latino candidate.

The New York Times

I saw Yaël's Nirbhaya and it was remarkable for broaching a subject which is at the forefront of people's mind what with Angelina Jolie fronting Unesco's war rape initiative and the ever present spectre of rape, horribly at the forefront of most countries.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "broach a subject" when you want to introduce a potentially sensitive or delicate topic in a tactful way.

Common error

Avoid using "broach" with "with". The correct usage is "broach a subject", not "broach with a subject".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "broach a subject" is as a verb phrase that introduces a topic, often with the implication that the topic is sensitive or potentially controversial. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broach a subject" is a grammatically correct and useful expression for introducing a topic, particularly one that is sensitive or potentially controversial. While it is not as common as other alternatives like "raise a subject" or "introduce a topic", it is versatile and appropriate for various contexts, including news, business, and even scientific discussions. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase follows standard English usage, making it a reliable choice for clear and effective communication. Remember to avoid using "broach" with "with"; the correct form is "broach a subject".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Raise a subject

Uses a more direct verb to introduce the topic.

Introduce a topic

Uses a more general and neutral verb.

Bring up a matter

Emphasizes the importance or sensitivity of the topic.

Touch on a subject

Suggests briefly mentioning the topic.

Open a discussion on

Focuses on initiating a conversation about the topic.

Delve into a topic

Implies a deeper exploration of the subject.

Address an issue

Highlights the problematic nature of the subject.

Table a subject

Suggests introducing a proposal that is open to debate and that will or could be taken up.

Refer a subject

Suggests mentioning the subject.

Air a grievance

Suggests a disagreement.

FAQs

How to use "broach a subject" in a sentence?

"Broach a subject" is typically used to introduce a topic, often one that is sensitive or potentially controversial. For example, "I need to "raise a subject" with my boss about my salary."

What can I say instead of "broach a subject"?

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

When is it appropriate to use "broach a subject"?

It is appropriate to use "broach a subject" when you want to introduce a topic that might be uncomfortable, sensitive, or controversial in a diplomatic or cautious manner.

What is the difference between "broach a subject" and "discuss a subject"?

"Broach a subject" implies introducing a topic for the first time, especially if it's delicate. "Discuss a subject", on the other hand, refers to having a conversation or exchanging ideas about a topic that has already been introduced.