informal talks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "informal talks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to casual discussions or conversations that are not formal or structured. Example: "The two leaders engaged in informal talks over dinner to discuss their countries' relations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The key informants were identified by village leaders, informal talks and themselves (snowball-sampling).

Human Ecology

The findings and information gathered via participatory observation were complemented by qualitative interviews and informal talks with the stakeholders in each case study.

Ecological Processes

Formal and informal talks, telephone conversations, and office visits were made to track key informants' opinions and experiences.

Globalization and Health

These are informal talks.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Informal talks were held on Saturday.

The New York Times

There will then be short informal talks, discussions after that.

Independent

Until then, the government will conduct informal talks.

The New York Times

Formal lectures and informal talks given by Lenz, 1930s-1960s.

Columbia University

Late last year the two nations held informal talks in order to improve diplomatic relation.

Independent

Long account of two informal talks given by Previn to the young people.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Wang Yi, 49, China's vice foreign minister, is here for these oh-so-informal talks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing diplomatic or business interactions, consider using "informal talks" to convey a preliminary or less formal stage of negotiation.

Common error

Avoid using "informal talks" when referring to gossip or unsubstantiated rumors. The phrase implies a degree of purpose and intentionality, even if it lacks formal structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "informal talks" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in describing discussions that lack a formal structure. For example, "Informal talks were held on Saturday."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

26%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "informal talks" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes preliminary or unstructured discussions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While alternatives like "casual conversations" or "unofficial discussions" exist, "informal talks" effectively conveys the lack of formal structure or agenda. When using this phrase, avoid associating it with gossip or unsubstantiated rumors, and ensure it aligns with the intended purpose of describing preliminary or exploratory discussions. The phrase appears frequently in authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, reinforcing its acceptability and widespread use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

casual conversations

Emphasizes the relaxed and unstructured nature of the discussions.

unofficial discussions

Highlights the lack of formal structure or official status.

preliminary discussions

Suggests that the talks are an initial step before more formal negotiations.

private conversations

Focuses on the confidential or non-public nature of the talks.

off-the-record discussions

Indicates that the content of the talks is not intended for public release.

low-key discussions

Highlights the understated and subtle manner of the discussions.

backchannel communications

Implies a discreet and indirect method of communication.

corridor talks

Suggests brief and impromptu conversations, often happening in hallways or other informal settings.

table talk

Indicates relaxed conversations, often taking place during meals or social events.

chatting informally

Highlights the conversational and relaxed interaction.

FAQs

How can I use "informal talks" in a sentence?

You can use "informal talks" to describe preliminary discussions, such as "The diplomats engaged in "informal talks" before the official summit."

What are some alternatives to "informal talks"?

Alternatives include "casual conversations", "unofficial discussions", or "preliminary discussions", depending on the specific context.

Are "informal talks" always private?

Not necessarily. While some "informal talks" may be private, the phrase primarily emphasizes the lack of a formal agenda or structure, not necessarily the confidentiality of the discussion.

What's the difference between "informal talks" and "formal negotiations"?

"Informal talks" are preliminary and often exploratory, while "formal negotiations" involve a structured process with specific goals and objectives.