discuss something different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "discuss something different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate a shift in conversation or topic to something that is not related to the current discussion. Example: "After covering the main points of the project, let's discuss something different, like our team's future goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

If you want to discuss something different, it means you are not for peace, you are for war," he said.

The Guardian

This year, however, I wish to discuss something different.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Post your own rumours below or hijack this article to discuss something completely different.

The Guardian - Sport

They are discussing something.

Huffington Post

They welcomed me to their table and we started to discuss the possibility of wearing something different.

Vice

Asking the students to sit down, he said he would do something different, instead of discussing the day's lesson.

Unicef

Something different.

The New York Times

This was something different.

The New York Times - Sports

"Swimmers wanted something different".

The New York Times - Sports

It's something different.

The New York Times - Sports

I wanted something different".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a new topic, use "discuss something different" to smoothly transition away from a previous point, especially in formal settings or when the current discussion is unproductive. For example, "Now that we've addressed the budget concerns, let's discuss something different: the upcoming marketing campaign."

Common error

Don't use "discuss something different" as a way to dismiss someone's point of view or to abruptly end a conversation. Ensure the transition is respectful and relevant. For example, instead of saying "Let's discuss something different" to avoid a difficult topic, acknowledge the concern briefly before moving on.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discuss something different" serves as a transitional phrase, functioning primarily to introduce a new topic or aspect within a conversation or discussion. As Ludwig AI points out, it signals a deliberate shift in focus. It is mostly used to politely redirect or expand the conversation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "discuss something different" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to transition to a new topic in a conversation or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, the phrase serves to smoothly redirect the conversation. For alternative phrasing, consider options such as "change the subject" or "address a different matter". When using this phrase, ensure a respectful and relevant transition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Talk about something else

This alternative is simpler and focuses on diverting the conversation to a different subject.

Move on to another topic

This alternative suggests a transition from the current topic to a new one.

Turn to a different subject

This alternative is a straightforward way to change the direction of the conversation.

Change the subject

This alternative is a more direct and informal way to indicate a shift in topic.

Shift the focus to something new

This alternative emphasizes redirecting attention towards a new topic.

Address a different matter

This alternative sounds more formal, suitable for business or professional settings.

Switch gears to a new discussion

This alternative implies changing direction, like shifting gears in a vehicle.

Consider an alternative subject

This alternative is a polite way of suggesting a different area of discussion.

Broach a different subject

This alternative is a more sophisticated and formal way to introduce a new topic.

Let's diverge to another matter

This alternative suggests branching off to a new, possibly unrelated, topic.

FAQs

How can I use "discuss something different" in a sentence?

You can use "discuss something different" to introduce a new topic, such as, "After reviewing the project updates, let's "discuss something different", like the team's upcoming training opportunities."

What is a more formal alternative to "discuss something different"?

A more formal alternative could be "address a different matter" or "consider an alternative subject". For example, "Having concluded this item on the agenda, we will now "address a different matter"."

Is it appropriate to use "discuss something different" in professional communication?

Yes, it's appropriate as long as the transition is smooth and respectful. It indicates a shift to a new topic. For example, "Now that we've resolved the technical issues, let's "discuss something different": the client feedback."

What's the difference between "discuss something different" and "change the subject"?

"Discuss something different" is a more polite way to shift topics, especially in professional or formal settings. "Change the subject" is more direct and informal. It's usually better to "discuss something different" in formal situations and "change the subject" informally.