get back to the topic

USAGE SUMMARY

'get back to the topic' is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate that a conversation should return to the original point or subject of discussion. For example: "We've been discussing my vacation plans for the past twenty minutes; let's get back to the topic of our English presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But let's get back to the topic at hand: that a**hole, Fitz.

Huffington Post

As for Bachmann, she never did get back to the topic of how she would regulate the financial industry.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

I don't think my boss and I ever got back to the topic I had believed was so earth-shaking and critical.

Forbes

Anyway, getting back to the topic, a lot of people still think it's OK to make fun of little people.

Vice

Getting back to the topic of the re-release, I would recommend anyone who has the chance to premiere and re-release to do it as soon as possible.

Huffington Post

To get back to the book.

The New Yorker

Get back to the table,' " she said.

The New York Times

Let's get back to the defectors.

The New Yorker

Get back to the task at hand.

WikiHow

Let's go back to the topic of stealth.

The Guardian - Business

We can get back to that topic another day.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get back to the topic" when you want to politely steer a conversation back to its original subject, especially after a digression. It's suitable for both formal and informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "get back to the topic" in very casual settings where a more relaxed approach is appropriate. Overly formal language can sometimes feel stilted or unnatural among friends.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get back to the topic" functions as a directive, used to steer a conversation or discussion back to its original subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct phrase. Examples show its use in diverse contexts, aiming to refocus attention.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get back to the topic" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression for redirecting a conversation. As Ludwig AI also confirms, it functions as a directive, particularly in news, media, and general discussions. While appropriate in many contexts, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "return to the subject at hand". The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it a versatile choice for steering conversations back on track. Overall, it serves as a practical tool to refocus discussions and ensure efficient communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

back to the original point

Highlights going back to the first intention of speech.

return to the subject at hand

Uses more formal vocabulary.

to come back to the matter

This phrase frames the redirection as a return to something important.

let's refocus on the matter

Emphasizes a need to concentrate again.

returning to what we were saying

Suggests a gentle return after an interruption.

to get back on track

Implies that the discussion has strayed and needs correction.

but returning to our previous discussion

Adds formality, signaling a deliberate return.

let's not digress

It's a shorter, more direct instruction.

where were we

Asks for help remembering the thread of conversation.

but let's change the subject back

It's a more conversational expression.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "get back to the topic"?

You can use alternatives like "return to the subject at hand", "let's refocus on the matter", or "back to the original point" depending on the context.

Is "get back to the topic" suitable for formal writing?

While "get back to the topic" is generally acceptable, more formal options such as "return to the subject at hand" or "to come back to the matter" might be more appropriate for academic or professional writing.

How can I politely use "get back to the topic" in a meeting?

You can use phrases like "Perhaps we should "get back to the topic" so we can cover all agenda items" or "Can we "get back to the topic" to ensure we stay on schedule?" to gently redirect the conversation.

What's the difference between "get back to the topic" and "get back on topic"?

While both phrases have a similar meaning, ""get back to the topic"" is slightly more direct, while "to get back on track" implies that the discussion has strayed and needs correction.