launch a discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "launch a discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are about to begin a conversation or debate about a particular topic. For example, you could say "Let's launch a discussion about the new policy changes at the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Tomorrow (14 June), the company will launch a discussion series featuring Evans in conversation with leading news makers.

The Guardian

The SNP – after six months of consultation with the sector – is to launch a discussion document or "green paper", due in early December.

The Guardian

To launch a discussion about what a new publication on contemporary art might offer, Burlington Contemporary sent out a questionnaire to writers, artists and thinkers.

Harvard University

Lippit remembers with a hint of envy the "A" that Kohan earned for a paper that used an Elvis bust lamp to launch a discussion of philosophers John Locke and David Hume.

Columbia University

Its aim is, first and foremost, to launch a discussion within the ESR, and the radiological community as a whole, about this topic.

Insights into Imaging

The second is more troublesome: on very obscure matters, it is necessary to launch a discussion that proceeds according to one assumption and later launch one that proceeds according to another.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

London based uberVU is about to launch a discussion-tracking product that will aggregate comments, Twitters, FriendFeed comments, trackbacks and other information about any URL (like a blog post) on the Internet.

TechCrunch

Activists say Ms. Filali's case has launched a discussion that was once unthinkable in Morocco.

The New York Times

On Monday Defra launched a discussion paper that will lead to a white paper on the natural environment in spring 2011.

The Guardian

We have launched a discussion paper, What Next for Devolution?, to kick off the conversation about which direction the devolution of powers should be heading in.

The Guardian

SI.com offers pictures of the 300-win club Johnson joined and launched a discussion on who would be the next member.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "launch a discussion" when you want to formally introduce a topic for consideration and debate. For example, use it in presentations, reports, or articles.

Common error

Avoid using "launch a discussion" in very casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "start talking about" or "discuss" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "launch a discussion" functions as a verbal phrase used to denote the act of initiating a conversation or debate on a particular topic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "launch a discussion" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of initiating a conversation or debate. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While versatile, it's best to avoid using it in very informal settings. Alternatives such as "start a conversation" or "open a discussion" might be more appropriate in casual contexts. Overall, it is a reliable phrase for formally introducing a topic for discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

open a discussion

A more straightforward way to express starting a discussion.

initiate a debate

Focuses specifically on starting a formal debate.

start a conversation

Emphasizes beginning a more informal exchange.

kick off a debate

An idiomatic way to say start a debate.

spark a dialogue

Suggests a more profound and meaningful exchange.

prompt a conversation

Highlights causing a conversation to begin.

foster an exchange

Highlights encouraging an open sharing of ideas.

set off a dialogue

An idiomatic way to express initiating a deep conversation.

begin a consultation

Implies a more formal and advisory context.

unleash a discourse

Suggests a more expansive and scholarly discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "launch a discussion" in a sentence?

You can use "launch a discussion" to introduce a new topic for conversation or debate, as in "The professor decided to "launch a discussion" about the ethical implications of AI."

What's the difference between "launch a discussion" and "start a discussion"?

"Launch a discussion" can imply a more formal or planned initiation, while "start a discussion" is a more general term for beginning a conversation. They are often interchangeable, but consider the context for the most appropriate choice.

What can I say instead of "launch a discussion"?

Alternatives include "initiate a debate", "start a conversation", or "open a discussion" depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is "launch a discussion" too formal for casual writing?

While generally appropriate for formal settings, using "launch a discussion" in very casual writing may sound stilted. Consider using alternatives like "bring up the topic" or "chat about" in informal contexts.