engaging in conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "engaging in conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a conversation between two or more people. For example, "The couple was engaging in conversation while enjoying a cup of tea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He suggests engaging in conversation with the customer.

The New York Times - Food

Be witty, amusing or worth engaging in conversation?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She wanted the police to talk him into engaging in conversation with her.

The New York Times

With a reserved, intellectual manner, he is cool yet engaging in conversation.

The New York Times - Arts

She was talking to us and... engaging in conversation and telling us to stay awake.

Independent

Engaging in conversation or watching TV draws attention away from the eaten food and can stimulate food intake.

Physiology & Behavior

He quickly developed a crush from afar, but he felt uncomfortable engaging in conversation.

The New York Times

I learn by talking back and engaging in conversation and walking around".

The Guardian - Film

So rather than engaging in conversation, they try to silence the children.

The Washington Post

One woman recounted seeing officers every morning in the courtyard, sitting as cold as stone, not engaging in conversation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Encourage them to manage one task at a time, shutting down social media while working online for homework or engaging in conversation.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: "Engaging in conversation" implies a two-way exchange, suitable for scenarios where interaction and dialogue are key.

Common error

While versatile, "engaging in conversation" can sometimes sound slightly informal in highly academic or business settings. Consider using alternatives like "participating in dialogue" or "contributing to discussions" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "engaging in conversation" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun. It describes the act of actively participating in a discussion or dialogue. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "engaging in conversation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used gerund phrase that describes the act of actively participating in a discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility, with examples spanning news, scientific, and general contexts. While its neutral register makes it suitable for most situations, writers should consider more formal alternatives like "participating in dialogue" in strictly academic or business settings. Remembering its emphasis on active participation is key to effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in conversation

A shorter version of the phrase, indicating a state of conversing.

participating in dialogue

Focuses on a more structured and reciprocal form of conversation.

taking part in a discussion

Emphasizes active involvement in a more formal or focused exchange.

having a discussion

A more general way to describe a conversation about a specific topic.

holding a conversation

Suggests a deliberate and maintained exchange.

involved in a discussion

Highlights being actively included in an exchange of ideas.

talking with someone

A simple and direct way of describing having a conversation.

discussing matters

Indicates talking about specific subjects or topics.

conversing with

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying 'talking with'.

in communication

Broadly implies exchanging information, not necessarily a direct conversation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "engaging in conversation" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "participating in dialogue", "contributing to discussions", or "partaking in discourse".

What does it mean to be "engaging in conversation"?

It means actively participating in a discussion, showing interest and contributing to the exchange of ideas. It implies more than just passively listening.

Is there a difference between "engaging in conversation" and "having a conversation"?

While similar, "engaging in conversation" emphasizes active involvement and a willingness to participate, whereas "having a conversation" is a more general term.

When is it appropriate to use "engaging in conversation"?

It's appropriate in most contexts where you want to describe someone actively participating in a discussion, whether formal or informal. However, be mindful of the specific tone required and consider more formal alternatives like "participating in dialogue" in academic or business settings.