commenced discussions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commenced discussions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the beginning of a conversation or negotiation on a particular topic or issue. Example: "The two companies have commenced discussions regarding a potential merger."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"As you are aware, we commenced discussions with 888 last November," Ladbrokes chairman Sir Ian Robinson said.

The Guardian - Business

"We've commenced discussions with possible financiers [of the mine] – we met with banks and we will redouble those efforts.

The Guardian

"Emirates has not yet commenced discussions with Fifa on the extension of our partnership agreement beyond 2014.

Independent

An Emirates statement issued on Wednesday acknowledged the quotes but said only that: "Emirates has not yet commenced discussions with Fifa on the extension of our partnership agreement beyond 2014.

BBC

In October 2012, the government commenced discussions with the leadership of the FARC, offering an opportunity for peace.

Conflict and Health

My company, Lot 47 Films, commenced discussions to acquire the film with the producers' attorney the morning after its world premiere at Sundance.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

However, I strongly hope that you will either agree to commence discussions with us now or remove all obstacles so that your shareholders can make their own determinations about the adequacy of our increased offer.

The New York Times

"We urge Willamette and its board to commence discussions with Weyerhaeuser to reach an agreement that will permit Willamette shareholders to receive a substantial premium for their shares and otherwise serve the best interests of all Willamette constituencies," the statement said.

The New York Times

Potential negative financial consequences to Take-Two are significant, and we believe [they] outweigh the benefits of commencing discussions at this time.

Forbes

While I understand that you may disagree with the Board's reluctance to commence discussions immediately, the Board and I want to assure you that our concerns about timing are genuine.

Forbes

This past June Turkey and Israel reached an agreement on compensation for the Mavi Marmara, which laid the foundation for resumed ties, and agreed to commence discussions on a natural gas pipeline from Israel to Turkey and on to Europe.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "commenced discussions", consider your audience and the context. It is best suited for formal or official communications. For less formal situations, simpler alternatives like "started talks" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "commenced discussions" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formality can sound stilted or unnatural in everyday settings. Choose more relaxed alternatives like "began talking" or "started discussing" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commenced discussions" functions as a verb phrase, specifically indicating the action of beginning a series of conversations or deliberations. Ludwig shows its use in various contexts, generally implying a formal or official start to a dialogue.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "commenced discussions" is a verb phrase indicating the formal start of a series of talks or deliberations. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and most appropriate for formal contexts like news reporting, scientific publications, and business communications. While versatile, it should be used judiciously in informal settings to avoid sounding stilted. Alternatives like "started talks" or "began discussing" may be more suitable for casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began talks

Replaces "commenced" with a simpler synonym, resulting in a more casual tone.

initiated deliberations

Uses a more formal synonym for both "commenced" and "discussions", suitable for official contexts.

started negotiations

Specifies the type of discussions as negotiations, implying a more structured and goal-oriented conversation.

opened dialogue

Emphasizes the initiation of a two-way conversation or exchange of ideas.

undertook conversations

Implies a more serious and planned set of discussions.

embarked on discussions

Suggests the start of a significant or lengthy series of discussions.

entered into talks

Highlights the act of formally starting discussions or negotiations.

launched discussions

Conveys a sense of actively and publicly starting a series of discussions.

set about discussions

Indicates a purposeful and methodical approach to starting discussions.

engaged in conversations

Focuses on active participation in discussions.

FAQs

What does "commenced discussions" mean?

The phrase "commenced discussions" means to have started or begun a series of conversations or deliberations about a particular topic, often in a formal or official context.

When is it appropriate to use "commenced discussions"?

Use "commenced discussions" in formal settings such as business negotiations, official reports, or academic papers. It's less appropriate for casual conversations. Consider using "began talks" or "started talking" in informal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "commenced discussions"?

Alternatives include "started talks", "initiated deliberations", "began negotiations", or "opened dialogue". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "commenced discussions" too formal for everyday language?

Yes, "commenced discussions" leans towards the formal side. For everyday language, consider using phrases like "started talking", "began discussing", or "kicked off discussions", which are more casual and natural.