having a conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having a conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two or more people engaging in a verbal exchange. For example, "John and Sarah had a pleasant conversation about their joint vacation plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Having a conversation.

The New York Times

"Art is like having a conversation.

The New Yorker

He videotapes them having a conversation.

The New York Times - Books

Are we having a conversation, asked Sophie.

The Guardian - Books

That we should be having a conversation?

The New York Times

Then we'd be having a conversation.

The Guardian - Opinion

After 8 p.m.? When having a conversation?

The Washington Post

"Well, now we're having a conversation!

The Guardian

"It's like having a conversation with him".

The New York Times - Arts

It's not like just having a conversation.

The Guardian - Film

They are "having a conversation" about "an issue".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, specify the topic of the "conversation". For instance, instead of saying "they were having a conversation", say "they were having a conversation about the new project guidelines".

Common error

Ensure that it's clear who is "having a conversation". Avoid using vague pronouns like "they" without clear context, as it can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having a conversation" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun within a sentence. Ludwig examples show its versatile use in describing the act of engaging in dialogue or communication. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

11%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "having a conversation" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread across diverse contexts. The phrase functions as a gerund, acting as a noun within a sentence. While generally neutral, consider more formal alternatives like "engaging in dialogue" for professional settings. Remember to provide clear context, especially regarding the subject and participants, to prevent ambiguity. With its high frequency in news and media, "having a conversation" remains a key element in describing human interaction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conversing with

Synonymous, but slightly more formal than "talking with".

talking with

A simpler, more informal way of expressing communication.

engaging in dialogue

Emphasizes the interactive and reciprocal nature of the communication.

communicating with

A more formal and general way of expressing interaction.

participating in a discussion

Highlights the involvement and contribution of individuals in a structured exchange of ideas.

holding a discussion

Similar to "participating in a discussion", but can also imply a more formal or organized setting.

sharing thoughts

Focuses on the exchange of ideas and opinions between individuals.

exchanging views

Highlights the reciprocal sharing of opinions and perspectives.

in communication

A slightly more passive construction emphasizing a state of communicating.

in conference

Implies a more formal, potentially business-oriented discussion.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "having a conversation" for a formal setting?

In formal contexts, you can use phrases like "engaging in dialogue", "participating in a discussion", or "holding a discussion" to maintain a professional tone.

What are some informal alternatives to "having a conversation"?

For less formal situations, consider using alternatives such as "talking with" or "sharing thoughts" which are more relaxed and conversational.

Is it grammatically correct to say "have a conversation" instead of "having a conversation"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct but serve different purposes. "Have a conversation" is often used as an imperative or infinitive (e.g., "Let's have a conversation"), while "having a conversation" is a gerund phrase functioning as a noun (e.g., "Having a conversation is important").

What's the difference between "having a conversation" and "exchanging views"?

"Having a conversation" is a general term for talking, while "exchanging views" emphasizes the reciprocal sharing of opinions and perspectives, often in a more formal or deliberative setting.