in conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

"in conversation" is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to specific conversations that have taken place, or to discuss the general concept of conversing. For example, "I have found that certain topics can be difficult to discuss in conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Told in conversation form.

The New Yorker

Do customers engage in conversation?

Independent

In Conversation He talks.

The New York Times

Criticism works in conversation.

The Guardian

In conversation, she studiously averted her eyes.

The New York Times

He bows to David in conversation.

Independent

and "Ms". in conversation or correspondence.

The New York Times

Participation in conversation was widely distributed.

The New York Times

Somehow, my column came up in conversation.

The New York Times

In conversation, she's a runaway train.

The New York Times

It was just really uncomfortable in conversation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in conversation" to indicate the context of a remark or behavior, specifying it happened during an exchange between people. For example, "He seemed much more relaxed in conversation than on stage."

Common error

Avoid using "into conversation" when you mean "in conversation". "In conversation" indicates the state of conversing, while "into conversation" would imply entering a conversation, which is less common.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in conversation" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating the setting or context in which an action or statement occurs. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, demonstrated through examples where it specifies details shared or observed during dialogue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

17%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in conversation" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to provide context, indicating that something occurred during a dialogue. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across varied source types, especially "News & Media". While generally neutral, its formality can shift depending on context; alternatives like "during the discussion" may suit more formal settings. Common errors include confusing it with "into conversation". To use it effectively, ensure it specifies that an action or statement happened during an exchange. Examples from Ludwig highlight its function in conveying directness and spontaneity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during a discussion

This alternative emphasizes the time frame of the discussion more explicitly.

during our talk

Similar to "during a discussion" but implies a more personal conversation.

while talking

This option is more informal and focuses on the act of speaking.

over a chat

This suggests a more casual and friendly conversation.

as we conversed

A more formal and literary way to express the same idea.

through dialogue

Highlights the exchange of words and ideas between people.

in dialogue

Similar to "through dialogue", it focuses on the exchange of ideas.

in communication

This is a broader term that includes any form of exchanging information, not just speaking.

while exchanging words

Highlights the interaction and back-and-forth nature of conversation.

during the discourse

This option refers to a more formal and structured conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "in conversation" in a sentence?

Use "in conversation" to indicate that something was said or observed during a dialogue. For example, "She mentioned /s/her+travel+plans in conversation" or "He seemed distracted /s/during+the+conversation".

What's a more formal alternative to "in conversation"?

A more formal alternative could be "during the discourse" or "during the discussion". However, "in conversation" is generally acceptable in most contexts.

How does "in conversation" differ from "having a conversation"?

"Having a conversation" refers to the act of conversing itself, while "in conversation" specifies that something occurred during that act. For example, "We were having a conversation about politics" versus "/s/In+conversation, she revealed her political views".

Is it correct to say "into conversation" instead of "in conversation"?

While not strictly incorrect, "into conversation" is far less common than "in conversation". "In conversation" is the preferred and more idiomatic choice.