discourse topics

USAGE SUMMARY

'discourse topics' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the subject of a discussion or debate. For example, "We had a lively discussion on several discourse topics, including gun control and climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

While mainstream feminism has created new spaces for female discourse, topics such as sexuality and mental health are still largely concealed behind stiff upper lips and Lynx-scented lad-dom where men are concerned.

The Guardian

Based on Wenger's (1998) work, these spaces were identified in terms of the specific discourse topics, for example, focusing on game strategy regarding the best approaches to in-game problems.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Discourse topics were created through a 2×2 design that manipulated familiarity and discourse type.

Applied Psycholinguistics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In talk-in-interaction, transitioning to a new (discourse) topic is an interactional action which involves the mobilization of a number of linguistic cues.

Journal of Pragmatics

But the fundamental structure abides: Jerry and his passenger drive around, hang out, grab a bite to eat, and enact a chummy discourse on topics ranging from the philosophy of humor to theories of everyday life.

The New Yorker

"The reasons I beat Hillary [Clinton] is because my appeal is broad and not narrow," Kasich said during a relatively rare deviation from his discourse on topics such as self-worth and purpose at the Schenectady Armory.

Huffington Post

He also spoke passionately about the discrimination he has faced based on his class, and discoursed on topics including high fashion, the Hollywood Walk of Fame organisation's refusal to grant girlfriend Kim Kardashian a star, and the "disrespectful" methods of the paparazzi and the media.

The Guardian - Music

Conversely, perseverations of discourse and topic repetitiveness, which can also be observed following brain injury [ 156], would result in a decrease in complexity and entropy.

BMC Psychiatry

The class will cover the following topics: discourse structure, models of coherence and cohesion, plan recognition algorithms, and text segmentation.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

From Arthur Sulzberger Jr., the publisher, on down, executives and editors of The Times use similar language to describe their goal: they want the newspaper's Web site to nurture a healthy, "civil discourse" on the topics of the day.

The New York Times

These experiences allow for learning how the research agenda is set, how to engage in high-level discourse on research topics and how to broaden perspectives in life science research.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "discourse topics", ensure the context involves structured communication or a formal exchange of ideas rather than casual conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "discourse topics" in casual conversations. Phrases like "conversation starters" or "things to talk about" are more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discourse topics" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI highlights, it refers to the subjects or themes under discussion in a structured or formal setting. It denotes the specific areas that are being explored or debated.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "discourse topics" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote the subjects of formal discussions or debates. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is most commonly found in scientific, academic, and news media contexts, reflecting its formal register. While not exceedingly common, its usage is appropriate when referring to structured communication or an exchange of ideas. When a less formal tone is desired, alternatives such as "discussion subjects" or "conversation themes" can be used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

themes of discourse

Inverts the original phrase to place emphasis on the broad themes, slightly changing the focus.

discussion subjects

Replaces "discourse" with "discussion", focusing on the act of discussing rather than the structured communication itself. It has a slightly more informal tone.

conversation themes

Substitutes both words to emphasize casual exchange. "Conversation" highlights informality, while "themes" suggests overarching ideas.

matters for discussion

Similar to 'subject matters' but uses 'for discussion' to specifically indicate items intended to be discussed.

subject matters

Uses a more general term, "subject matters", to describe the topics being discussed; slightly more formal.

areas of discussion

Rephrases the concept as "areas", suggesting broader fields rather than specific topics; suitable for outlining a general scope.

points of conversation

Focuses on individual elements within a conversation, implying a more granular level of detail compared to "topics".

talking points

Emphasizes specific points intended for discussion, often in a political or strategic context.

discussion agendas

Focuses on the plan or list of items to be discussed, typically in a formal setting.

fields of conversation

Broader than just topics, refers to wider contexts or arenas that encompass the conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "discourse topics" in a sentence?

You can use "discourse topics" to refer to subjects suitable for formal discussions. For example, "The conference will cover a range of critical discourse topics".

What are some alternatives to "discourse topics"?

Depending on the context, you might use "discussion subjects", "conversation themes", or "talking points".

Is "discourse topics" formal or informal?

"Discourse topics" tends to be more formal, suggesting a structured and often academic or professional discussion. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "things to talk about" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "discourse topics" and "conversation topics"?

"Discourse topics" implies a more formal and structured discussion, often in academic or professional contexts, whereas "conversation topics" is more general and can apply to any informal discussion.