getting back on topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting back on topic" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used when a conversation has gone off on a tangent and the speaker wants to return to the original topic of discussion. Example sentence: "Sorry for going off topic, let's get back on topic and discuss the next steps for this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In Trump's typical scattershot fashion, he started talking about Flynn, but segued to the subject of leaks, before getting back on topic.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

So let's get back on topic.

TechCrunch

If nothing else, you should be able to feel more comfortable cutting off the windbag in the room and saying, "Excuse me, but could we get back on topic?" I also like the idea of collaborative note-taking during the meeting, since I've definitely been stuck on email threads where people debate what actually happened, even when one person took notes.

TechCrunch

When Salahi was distracting from questions about the White House State Dinner she and husband Tareq allegedly crashed, Whoopi came on set to nudge Salahi to get back on topic.

Huffington Post

We get back on topic and he talked about how things did get a little "irritating" in Isaac's 100 mph winds.

Vice

Whoopi showed another camera angle that showed that she did not hit Salahi, as she reportedly claimed, but rather nudged her on the side to remind her to get back on topic.

Huffington Post

If the topic deviates from Christianity or spirituality, suggest the group gets back on topic.

WikiHow

"Judge not so that in turn you will not be judged... ........ Stay on the subject--or get back on topic.

WikiHow

How are you getting back on track?

The New York Times

I want to get back on top.

Independent

Shakhtar need to get back on top.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before using the phrase, briefly acknowledge the tangent to show you were listening, then smoothly transition back to the main subject.

Common error

Avoid using "getting back on topic" too abruptly. Acknowledge the diversion before redirecting to maintain a smooth and respectful conversation flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting back on topic" functions as a discourse marker, indicating a shift in conversation back to the original subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to redirect and refocus the discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "getting back on topic" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to redirect conversations to their original focus. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a discourse marker, promoting efficiency and politeness across various settings. While primarily found in News & Media and Wiki sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal discussions. When employing the phrase, acknowledge any digressions to ensure a smooth transition and maintain respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

returning to the main point

Focuses on the act of going back to the central idea.

let's refocus on the matter at hand

Emphasizes the need to concentrate on the current issue.

can we stick to the agenda

Highlights the importance of following a pre-set plan.

staying on track with the discussion

Stresses maintaining progress and avoiding tangents.

redirecting to the original subject

Directly addresses the action of changing the conversation's course.

let's get back to the original plan

Similar to sticking to the agenda, but more general.

returning to our initial discussion

Similar to the main point, but emphasizing the start.

let's not digress

A more concise way of asking to avoid going off-topic.

shall we resume the intended subject

A more formal way to suggest getting back to the topic.

back to the matter at hand

A shorter version to refocus the discussion

FAQs

How can I politely say "getting back on topic"?

You can use phrases like "returning to the main point", "can we stick to the agenda", or "let's refocus on the matter at hand" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "getting back on topic"?

It's appropriate when a conversation has strayed from its original subject, especially in formal settings like meetings or presentations, or when time is limited.

What's a less direct way to say "getting back on topic"?

Instead of directly saying "getting back on topic", you might say "So, as we were discussing earlier..." or simply reintroduce the original subject matter.

Is "getting back on topic" suitable for informal conversations?

While generally acceptable, in very informal settings, a more casual phrase like "anyway, as I was saying..." might be more appropriate.