commencing discussions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commencing discussions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the start of conversations or negotiations on a particular topic or issue. Example: "We are commencing discussions on the new project proposal next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

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

Forbes

Prior to the study commencing, discussions took place with local midwifery managers and supervisors.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 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

With only a few months to reach a new agreement, the Queensland education minister, Grace Grace, said it was "about time" the government commenced discussions.

The Guardian

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

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

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

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

For scenarios needing less formal language, alternatives such as "starting talks" or "beginning conversations" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "commencing discussions" in casual settings. Its formality can sound stilted or unnatural in everyday conversations; opt for simpler alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commencing discussions" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the start of a dialogue or negotiation. Ludwig suggests it's a valid phrase, but its formality should align with the context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "commencing discussions" is a grammatically correct verbal phrase used to denote the start of formal talks or negotiations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, emphasizing its suitability for professional, academic, or official contexts. While alternatives like "beginning negotiations" or "initiating talks" exist for similar meanings, "commencing discussions" carries a higher degree of formality. It’s advisable to reserve this phrase for settings where such formality is warranted, as overuse in casual contexts may sound unnatural.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beginning negotiations

Replaces "discussions" with "negotiations", implying a more formal and structured conversation focused on reaching an agreement.

initiating talks

Uses "talks" instead of "discussions", suggesting a slightly less formal tone, and "initiating" instead of "commencing", which maintains a similar level of formality.

starting conversations

Substitutes "discussions" with the more general term "conversations", indicating a less structured and potentially more informal start to communication.

launching dialogues

Employs "dialogues" which suggests a more in-depth and reciprocal exchange of ideas, and "launching" adds a sense of initiative and purpose.

opening deliberations

Replaces "discussions" with "deliberations", implying careful and thorough consideration, making it suitable for formal settings.

undertaking consultations

Suggests a more formal and often expert-led process of seeking advice and exchanging information before making a decision.

embarking on negotiations

Uses "embarking on" to add a sense of beginning a significant process, while retaining the formal tone of "negotiations".

setting up talks

A more casual and straightforward way to describe arranging or preparing for discussions, suitable for less formal contexts.

engaging in dialogue

Focuses on the active participation and exchange of ideas, emphasizing the interactive nature of the discussions.

commencing conversations

Substitutes "discussions" with the more general term "conversations", indicating a less structured and potentially more informal start to communication. Sticking with "commencing" still gives it a formal tone.

FAQs

How can I use "commencing discussions" in a sentence?

"Commencing discussions" indicates the start of formal talks or negotiations. For example: "The company is commencing discussions with potential investors next week."

What are some alternatives to "commencing discussions"?

You can use alternatives like "beginning negotiations", "initiating talks", or "starting conversations", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "commencing discussions"?

It is appropriate in formal settings such as business meetings, academic conferences, or official negotiations. Avoid using it in casual conversations.

Is "commencing discussions" too formal for everyday use?

Yes, "commencing discussions" is generally too formal for everyday use. Simpler alternatives like "starting talks" or "beginning to chat" are more suitable for informal settings.