initiating contact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initiating contact" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is starting communication or interaction with another person or group. Example: "The first step in the project involves initiating contact with potential stakeholders to discuss their needs and expectations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

(a) "I am initiating contact.

The New Yorker

It means we're initiating contact, getting to the line.

The New York Times - Sports

N.S.A. policy forbids initiating contact with the press.

The New Yorker

Make a clear, compelling case for why you're initiating contact.

The New York Times

Some weeks after initiating contact, they will ask for money – possibly for an operation or some administration.

The Guardian - Money

In the Japanese culture, it is customary for younger players to show respect for older players by initiating contact.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

The project group initially initiated contact with the researchers.

BMC Nursing

We further demonstrated in vitro that IL-2 produced by neighboring effector T cells activated MBP-specific Tregs, initiating contact-independent suppression to T effectors in local milieu.

Journal of Autoimmunity

He initiated contact.

The New York Times - Sports

More often than not, she initiates contact.

The New Yorker

To be the one to initiate contact.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "initiating contact", clearly state your purpose and be respectful of the other party's time. This increases the likelihood of a positive and productive interaction.

Common error

Avoid using overly casual language or assuming a pre-existing relationship when "initiating contact", especially in professional or formal contexts. Tailor your approach to the recipient and the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initiating contact" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun to describe the action of beginning communication or interaction. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing actions related to sports, professional communication, and policy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Unknown

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initiating contact" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes the action of starting communication or interaction. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While generally neutral to formal in register, its effectiveness lies in clearly stating the purpose of the communication while respecting the recipient's time. Common errors include assuming familiarity, so it’s important to tailor your approach to the specific context and audience. Alternatives like "starting contact" or "reaching out" can be used depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting contact

Focuses on the commencement of interaction, similar to initiating, but with a more general term.

making first contact

Emphasizes the initial nature of the interaction, specifically the very first instance of communication.

opening communication

Highlights the act of establishing a channel for communication, framing it in terms of opening a dialogue.

establishing communication

Focuses on setting up or creating the means for ongoing communication, emphasizing the establishment of a connection.

reaching out

A more informal and general way of saying beginning the process of contacting someone.

getting in touch

Implies starting the process of connecting with someone, often used in a personal or informal context.

commencing dialogue

More formal and emphasizes the beginning of a conversation or exchange of ideas.

starting a conversation

Specifically refers to beginning a verbal exchange, rather than a broader interaction.

establishing a connection

Focuses on creating a link or relationship, implying a more personal or professional bond.

making an approach

Suggests a deliberate and planned act of starting communication, often in a formal setting.

FAQs

What does "initiating contact" mean?

"Initiating contact" refers to the act of starting a communication or interaction with someone. It implies taking the first step to connect or engage with another person or group.

What are some alternatives to "initiating contact"?

You can use alternatives like "starting contact", "reaching out", or "establishing communication" depending on the context.

Is "initiating contact" formal or informal?

The phrase "initiating contact" is generally considered neutral to formal. While appropriate in many professional settings, it might be replaced with "getting in touch" for a more casual tone.

How to effectively use "initiating contact" in a sentence?

When "initiating contact", be clear about your intentions and the reason for reaching out. For instance, "The project team is "initiating contact" with stakeholders to gather feedback".