engaged in talks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "engaged in talks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to discussions or negotiations between parties, often in a formal or diplomatic context. Example: "The two countries are currently engaged in talks to resolve their trade disputes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Hingley is also engaged in talks with the US military.

The Guardian

While engaged in talks with Chevron, Khodorkovsky launched Open Russia.

The New Yorker

The Nuggets and the Nets have engaged in talks concerning Anthony for months.

The New York Times - Sports

Though the rebels engaged in talks, Kony refused to sign a final peace agreement in 2008.

The Guardian

Senate leaders remain engaged in talks to try to avert a rules fight that many lawmakers fear could prove disruptive.

The New York Times

Austria has been engaged in talks with both Slovenia and Germany to find solutions to manage the influx of people.

Independent

Eager for another big competitor in the e-book market, all six publishers engaged in talks with Apple.

The New York Times

The Disney Company recently engaged in talks with Lehman Brothers to accelerate finding a buyer for the Ducks.

The New York Times - Sports

Turkey was engaged in talks with the PKK and hosted Syrian Kurdish leaders in Ankara on many occasions.

The Washington Post

All but four were eventually removed from the list, and Wikipedia has engaged in talks about the content of banned entries.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"We are engaged in talks with a number of bank partners about network opportunities," Mr. Crittenden said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing ongoing negotiations, use the continuous form: "are currently engaged in talks."

Common error

Avoid using "engaged on talks", as "engaged" requires the preposition "in" to properly convey involvement or participation in a discussion or negotiation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "engaged in talks" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger verb construction (e.g., "are engaged in talks"). It describes an ongoing activity or state of actively participating in discussions or negotiations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "engaged in talks" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase indicating active participation in discussions or negotiations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable. Its primary function is to convey that parties are actively discussing or negotiating, often with the goal of reaching an agreement or resolving issues. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts and maintains a neutral to professional register. When using the phrase, ensure you use the correct preposition "in", rather than other prepositions like "on". Alternatives such as "involved in discussions" or "participating in negotiations" can be used depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

involved in discussions

Focuses on the involvement and process of discussing.

participating in negotiations

Highlights the negotiation aspect, suggesting a more formal setting.

holding discussions

Emphasizes the act of holding or conducting the talks.

in negotiation

Focuses on the process of negotiation, less on the active engagement.

in conversation

A more general term indicating an exchange of ideas.

in dialogue

Suggests a more collaborative and open exchange.

in conference

Highlights the formal aspect and meeting setting.

in consultation

Emphasizes seeking advice and exchanging views.

in deliberation

Implies careful and thoughtful consideration.

in parley

A more archaic term for a conference or discussion, often between enemies.

FAQs

How to use "engaged in talks" in a sentence?

You can use "engaged in talks" to describe a situation where parties are actively participating in discussions or negotiations. For example, "The government is "engaged in talks" with the rebels to find a peaceful resolution."

What can I say instead of "engaged in talks"?

You can use alternatives like "involved in discussions", "participating in negotiations", or "holding discussions" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "engaged in talks" or "engaged on talks"?

"Engaged in talks" is the correct phrase. The preposition "in" is required to properly convey involvement or participation. "Engaged on talks" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "engaged in talks" and "in negotiation"?

"Engaged in talks" suggests active participation in the discussions, while "in negotiation" simply implies that a negotiation process is underway, without necessarily highlighting the active involvement of the parties.