encourage conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "encourage conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to suggest that an effort should be made to get people talking. For example: "The facilitator of the meeting encouraged conversation among the attendees to get their ideas and opinions heard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"We actually encourage conversation among the staff," Field says.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I think you listen a lot, I think you encourage conversation," she said.

The New York Times

It said that "to encourage conversation," neither the department nor the news media were invited to the forum.

The New York Times

We encourage conversation, welcome diversity and understand that both identity and agency can come from recognising our differences.

The Guardian

Like the main Web site, which promotes the fact that it garners millions of user comments each month, HuffPost Live says it will encourage conversation among viewers.

The New York Times

Micro-pubs such as Herne's Butcher's Arms, tucked down a back street in a former shop, where there's never any music so as to encourage conversation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

"The aim is to encourage conversations about a film's theme among communities in a familiar space," says Mr Tan.

The Economist

Their goal, according to a news release, was to encourage conversations among friends, relatives and neighbors that "can be uncomfortable for both parties".

The New York Times

In a TEDx talk they gave this year at the University of Texas in Arlington they highlight the need for spaces to encourage conversations in these smartphone times.

The Guardian - Books

One of the positive effects of the law will be to encourage "conversations with people working together about what their expectations are", said Cox.

The Guardian - Money

With the orchestra, Mr. Barenboim said, he and Said wanted to "encourage conversations between Arabs and Israelis and connect people individually across the chasm of speechlessness that so often characterizes the Palestinian-Israeli conflict".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When designing a space, consider arranging furniture to "encourage conversation" among guests. This fosters a welcoming and interactive atmosphere.

Common error

While "encourage conversation" is versatile, avoid overuse in strictly formal writing. Consider stronger alternatives like "facilitate communication" or "promote dialogue" for increased precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "encourage conversation" functions as a purpose connector, often used to describe actions or strategies intended to promote dialogue or interaction. It indicates an aim to stimulate verbal exchange.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "encourage conversation" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression for describing efforts to promote dialogue. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It finds frequent application in news media and scientific contexts, signifying actions taken to foster communication. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the register and opt for more formal alternatives like "facilitate communication" in strictly professional environments. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use "encourage conversation" to convey the intention of promoting meaningful exchanges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encourage dialogue

Replaces "conversation" with "dialogue", suggesting a more structured or formal exchange.

invite discussion

Suggests a more open and less directive approach to starting a conversation.

foster discussion

Uses "foster" to imply nurturing and developing a discussion.

prompt discussion

Implies initiating a discussion, often about a specific topic.

facilitate communication

Focuses on making communication easier and more effective.

spark dialogue

Conveys the idea of initiating an energetic or insightful exchange.

promote interaction

Shifts the focus to general interaction, not specifically verbal exchange.

inspire dialogue

Suggests motivating others towards an open and honest conversation.

cultivate exchange

Implies carefully developing and maintaining an exchange of ideas.

stimulate debate

Emphasizes sparking a formal debate or argument.

FAQs

How can I use "encourage conversation" in a sentence?

You can use "encourage conversation" to describe actions or environments designed to promote dialogue, for example: "The teacher used group activities to encourage conversation among students".

What's a more formal alternative to "encourage conversation"?

In formal settings, consider using phrases like "foster dialogue", "facilitate communication", or "promote interaction".

Is it better to "encourage conversation" or "start a conversation"?

"Encourage conversation" suggests creating an environment where conversation can thrive, while "start a conversation" refers to initiating a single instance of dialogue. The best choice depends on the context.

What does it mean to "encourage conversation" in online communities?

In online contexts, "encourage conversation" can refer to using strategies such as posing open-ended questions, moderating discussions, and creating a welcoming atmosphere to promote engagement and interaction.