generating a discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generating a discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of initiating or creating a conversation or dialogue about a particular topic. Example: "The speaker's thought-provoking ideas were effective in generating a discussion among the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Instead of generating a discussion about political violence, the recent "Julius Caesar" seemed to incite dangerous vitriol.

Los Angeles Times

The instructor introduces the activity by generating a discussion on how hormones and vitamins might relate to disease through gene regulation and in a given environmental context.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But there's no guarantee the right people see it, no easy way to generate a discussion relating to it and no easy way to archive it".

The Guardian - Tech

A white-haired professor, with a white beard and a purple-patterned sweater, is trying to generate a discussion about juvenile delinquency.

The Economist

Reviewing with students common problems facing young people their age the teacher will be able to generate a discussion of issues to be focused on in this module.

Yale University

The activity generated a discussion about alternative energy and carbon storage, with some students emailing me after class to learn more.

University of California, Berkeley

I am not sharing this wedding story to invoke fear among those planning their own nuptials, nor to generate a discussion about the importance of believing people who tell you they have serious allergies (though that is important).

The Guardian - Opinion

"At a time when identity, shared culture and civic values are increasingly relevant to us all, the National Portrait Gallery is uniquely placed to generate a discussion by reflecting on our common artistic, cultural and social history – in short, what binds us together.

The Guardian - Arts

The Socratic method also utilizes a sequence of questions, including asking opening questions to generate a discussion, then moving to several guiding questions to elaborate, and finally asking closing questions to summarize what feedback was provided and bringing the discussion back to the original problem statement.

Yale University

Questions about the accuracy of online traffic data are well known, though new numbers never fail generate a discussion.

Forbes

We began to organize support groups, and in 2011 we generated a discussion around sexual violence in Somalia that never before existed.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to “generate a discussion”, clearly define the discussion's scope and objectives beforehand. This helps keep the conversation focused and productive.

Common error

Avoid using topics that are too broad when trying to “generate a discussion”. Overly broad topics can lead to unfocused conversations and diluted engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generating a discussion" functions as a verb phrase acting as a gerund, often used to describe the act of initiating or creating a conversation or dialogue. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generating a discussion" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe the act of starting a conversation or dialogue. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. While alternatives like “"spark a conversation"” or “"foster dialogue"” exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using this phrase, it's essential to define the scope and objectives of the discussion to maintain focus and productivity. Avoid overly broad topics that can dilute engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spark a conversation

This alternative suggests a sudden and immediate start to a discussion.

stimulate conversation

Focuses on making the conversation more lively or interesting.

foster dialogue

This alternative suggests creating an environment conducive to ongoing communication.

promote discussion

Suggests a proactive effort to encourage a discussion.

open up a discussion

This suggests starting a discussion that was previously closed or nonexistent.

initiate a debate

This alternative implies a more formal and structured discussion, often with opposing viewpoints.

invite conversation

This suggests creating an atmosphere or situation that makes people want to talk.

trigger a discourse

Implies that something sets off a more formal and extended discussion.

encourage exchange of ideas

This focuses on the sharing of different perspectives.

create an opportunity for discussion

Focuses on providing the means or setting for a discussion to happen.

FAQs

How can I effectively use “generating a discussion” in a sentence?

Use “generating a discussion” to describe actions or stimuli that lead to conversation. For example, “The professor's lecture was aimed at "generating a discussion" about ethics.”

What are some alternatives to “generating a discussion”?

You can use alternatives like “"spark a conversation"”, “"foster dialogue"”, or “"promote discussion"” depending on the context.

Is it better to use “generating a discussion” or “having a discussion”?

“Generating a discussion” refers to starting or initiating a conversation, while “having a discussion” refers to the act of participating in one. The correct choice depends on whether you're describing the initiation or the participation in the discussion.

What's the difference between “generating a discussion” and “"initiating a debate"”?

“Generating a discussion” is a broad term for starting a conversation, while “"initiating a debate"” specifically refers to starting a formal argument or structured discussion, often with opposing viewpoints.