gave a discourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gave a discourse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone delivering a formal speech or presentation on a particular topic. Example: "During the conference, the keynote speaker gave a discourse on the importance of climate change awareness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

By Jan Spiess The New Yorker, May 15 , 1937P. 66 A manicurist give a discourse on astrology.

The New Yorker

Girls can also choose to celebrate in the main synagogue after the Saturday service, but there she would give a discourse rather than read from the Torah.

The New York Times

Dr. Nicholas Henson explains his method of micropropagating ferns whose conservation is important Nigel Hepper, whose work is with materials associated with antiquity, gives a discourse on papyrus.

The New Yorker

Kundera himself tells us how to read his book: "A novelist talking about the art of the novel is not a professor giving a discourse from his podium.

The New York Times - Books

By John Forbes The New Yorker, February 25 , 1928P. 38 Speaker gives a discourse on bread at a gathering of the Master Bakers Association.

The New Yorker

Agassi has now developed into an admirable and wise elder statesman, who can give a discourse on the seven-match, two-week tournament.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Barkin said, "It's a subject very few people ever would think about, then they hear that song, and they say to themselves, 'Oh my God, how interesting, how sad.' " During performances, Mr. Herald gives a discourse on the birds' fate, then sings about the death of the last one in 1914 at the Cincinnati Zoo.

The New York Times

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave a long discourse about not letting Russia off the hook.

The New York Times

Answering Mr. Letterman's questions, Mr. Clinton gave a dispassionate discourse on the cultural and political dynamics of the race, which, he said, would ultimately play in Mr. Obama's favor.

The New York Times

Mr. Giuliani gave a lengthy discourse on the city's accomplishments in reducing crime through what he called the application of rational strategies rather than emotional and political responses.

The New York Times

He gave an historica discourse that he wanted everyone, especially the 2300 Council Father, to hear.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gave a discourse" to describe a formal and structured presentation of information, often in an academic or professional setting.

Common error

Avoid using "gave a discourse" in informal contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "explained" or "talked about" in casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gave a discourse" functions as a verb phrase, where "gave" is the main verb and "a discourse" is the direct object. The phrase describes the action of delivering a formal speech or presentation.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gave a discourse" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of delivering a formal presentation or speech. While Ludwig provides no real-world examples of the phrase, it is best suited for academic, professional, or formal settings. Simpler alternatives are preferred in casual conversation. The phrase's formality makes it a strong choice when a structured and in-depth presentation is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delivered a lecture

Implies a more formal and academic setting compared to a general discourse.

presented a speech

Focuses on the act of speaking publicly, often with a prepared text.

offered an explanation

Highlights the act of clarifying or providing understanding, less formal.

provided an analysis

Suggests a detailed examination of a topic, emphasizing analytical skills.

shared insights

Emphasizes the sharing of personal knowledge or understanding.

expressed views

Focuses on the communication of opinions or beliefs.

articulated thoughts

Highlights the clear and effective expression of ideas.

expounded on a subject

Suggests a thorough and detailed explanation of a particular topic, more formal.

presented an argument

Emphasizes the presentation of a reasoned case or viewpoint.

conducted a discussion

Highlights an exchange of ideas

FAQs

What does "gave a discourse" mean?

It means to deliver a formal and structured presentation or speech on a particular topic.

How can I use "gave a discourse" in a sentence?

Example: "The professor "gave a discourse" on the history of philosophy."

What can I say instead of "gave a discourse"?

You can use alternatives like "delivered a lecture", "presented a speech", or "offered an explanation" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "gave a discourse" and "gave a speech"?

"Gave a discourse" implies a more structured and formal presentation, often with a deeper exploration of the topic, while "gave a speech" is a more general term for public speaking.