broach this topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broach this topic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce or bring up a subject for discussion, often in a sensitive or delicate context. Example: "During the meeting, I felt it was important to broach this topic to ensure everyone was on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

WORTH KNOWING Jordanians are fond of gossiping about their royal family, in hushed tones, though visitors may want to broach this topic with care.

The New York Times

If any players broach this topic with Stanton, they will be acting like the same infantile Mets who last season got into a fight over a picture on an old baseball card.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite this full-on immersion, some teachers may find it difficult to broach this topic in the classroom.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

DANIEL J. WAKIN: That appears pretty unlikely, but Vatican officials have not broached this topic.

The New York Times

Related: Some of you may recall that we've broached this topic before.

The New York Times

But when I broached this topic, every one of them turned red and stammered and then was struck mute.

Huffington Post

The city's Economic Development department, who were at first friendly and helpful, ceased communication once I broached this topic via email.

Vice

Although it's important to respond to kids' queries and have conversations around school safety, broaching this topic without causing unnecessary fear or anxiety can pose a challenge.

Huffington Post

At the same time, it is clear that both public [ 55] and professionals [ 56] find broaching this topic difficult, and patients and families report very unsatisfactory experiences [ 57].

BMC Medical Research Methodology

39 Not knowing when or how to broach this difficult topic with patients can result in the issue being sidestepped by clinicians (box 4A).

BMJ Open

The pamphlet contains several additional conversation starters to broach this sensitive topic.

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broach this topic", be mindful of your audience and the sensitivity of the subject matter. Choose a suitable setting and tone to facilitate open and respectful dialogue.

Common error

Avoid using "broach this topic" in extremely informal settings, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more casual alternatives like "bring it up" or "mention it" in everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broach this topic" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of introducing a subject for discussion. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples show it used in contexts where sensitivity is required.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broach this topic" is a grammatically sound and usable expression for introducing a subject, often a sensitive one, for discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usefulness in written English. While not overly common, it appears across diverse sources, including news media and scientific publications. When considering alternative phrases, options like "raise this topic" or "introduce this topic" offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality and directness. Remember to tailor your choice to the specific context and audience. Being mindful of the potential sensitivity of the subject will contribute to an effective and respectful conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raise this topic

Replaces "broach" with the more direct verb "raise", suggesting a less delicate approach.

introduce this topic

Uses a more neutral term, "introduce", suitable for various contexts where the aim is simply to present the subject.

bring up this topic

Employs the phrasal verb "bring up", which is slightly more informal than "broach" but conveys a similar meaning.

mention this topic

Suggests a brief or casual reference to the topic, implying less extensive discussion.

address this topic

Implies a more formal and direct approach, suggesting the topic will be dealt with directly.

discuss this topic

Focuses on the conversation itself, rather than the act of initiating it.

touch on this topic

Suggests a brief or light exploration of the topic, avoiding deep analysis.

allude to this topic

Hints at the topic without explicitly stating it, implying subtlety or indirectness.

open up this topic

Implies a desire to make a topic more accessible or widely discussed.

initiate discussion on this topic

More formal and emphasizes the commencement of a discussion.

FAQs

What does "broach this topic" mean?

The phrase "broach this topic" means to introduce a subject for discussion, often one that is sensitive or has been avoided. It suggests a deliberate and careful approach to initiate the conversation.

How can I use "broach this topic" in a sentence?

You might say, "I was hesitant to "broach this topic", but it's important for us to address it openly" or "The manager decided to "broach this topic" during the team meeting to gather everyone's input."

What are some alternatives to "broach this topic"?

Alternatives include "raise this topic", "bring up this topic", "introduce this topic", or "mention this topic", depending on the level of formality and directness you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "broach this topic"?

It's appropriate to use "broach this topic" when you need to introduce a potentially sensitive or delicate subject. It suggests a careful and considerate approach to initiating a conversation that might be uncomfortable or challenging.