establish a dialogue

USAGE SUMMARY

"establish a dialogue" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to emphasize the need to start a discussion between two or more people. For example, "We need to establish a dialogue with our customers to understand their needs better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Attempts to establish a dialogue have failed, and fighting and rampages are continuing.

The New York Times

Even then, time would be needed to establish a dialogue with Iran's complex layers of leadership.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Ratzinger, Kramer finds, lacked the ecumenical openness required to establish a dialogue with the Islamic world.

The New Yorker

As Jeffrey Bilhuber explains: "What we do as decorators is establish a dialogue between chairs, tables, lamps, curtains.

The New York Times - Magazine

He said charities should establish a dialogue with their supporters and other stakeholders and find out what information they needed.

The Guardian

"If I were in the opposition's shoes, I would come up with my ideas in response on how to establish a dialogue," Mr. Lavrov said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Slowly, Jaruzelski worked to re-establish a dialogue with the church, the intelligentsia and Wałesa.

The Guardian

He said the aim of the event on Saturday was "to re-establish a dialogue" between the church and artists "that's necessary and fertile for both".

The New York Times

Or had established a dialogue sooner?

The Economist

"They seem more interested in playing a role than actually establishing a dialogue," said David Axelrod, a White House senior adviser.

The New York Times

In the EU's Iran strategy, establishing a dialogue on human rights should be the most important objective.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to resolve conflicts or bridge divides, use "establish a dialogue" to emphasize the importance of opening lines of communication.

Common error

Avoid using "establish a dialogue" when referring to one-sided communication; it implies a two-way exchange. Use alternative phrases such as "make an announcement" or "issue a statement" for unilateral situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "establish a dialogue" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of initiating a conversation or exchange between two or more parties. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "establish a dialogue" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to describe the action of initiating communication. Ludwig AI affirms its validity, and the phrase frequently appears in neutral to formal registers, particularly within News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias contexts. To vary your writing, consider alternatives such as "initiate a conversation" or "start a discussion". Remember to use the phrase when referring to a two-way exchange, as it implies mutual participation and constructive conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Initiate a conversation

Replaces "establish a dialogue" with a more straightforward term for beginning a discussion.

Start a discussion

Uses simpler vocabulary to express the act of commencing a dialogue.

Begin a conversation

Uses common vocabulary to denote starting an exchange.

Open channels of communication

Focuses on creating pathways for ongoing exchange rather than a single event.

Forge a connection

Emphasizes building a relationship alongside the start of communication.

Foster communication

Highlights the nurturing and encouragement of dialogue.

Promote understanding

Shifts the focus to the desired outcome of establishing a dialogue: achieving mutual comprehension.

Create avenues for discussion

Highlights the creation of opportunities for dialogue.

Set up a communication

Emphasizes the structural aspect of making communication possible.

Develop a rapport

Highlights the relationship-building aspect of beginning a discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "establish a dialogue" in a sentence?

You can use "establish a dialogue" to suggest initiating a conversation, as in, "The goal is to "establish a dialogue" between the two departments to improve collaboration".

What phrases are similar to "establish a dialogue"?

Alternatives include "initiate a conversation", "start a discussion", or "open channels of communication", each emphasizing different aspects of beginning communication.

Is "establish a dialogue" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "establish a dialogue" is suitable for formal writing and professional contexts, as it clearly and professionally communicates the intention to begin a constructive conversation.

When should I avoid using "establish a dialogue"?

Avoid using "establish a dialogue" when the communication is one-sided. In such cases, use phrases like "issue a statement" or "make an announcement" instead.