lively discourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lively discourse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an engaging and animated conversation or discussion, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The conference featured a panel discussion that sparked lively discourse among the attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It's a sharp, lively discourse, and audience members searching for engaging debate will be pleased.

The New York Times

Some people might relish a lively discourse on creationism and heart disease: surely that, too, is God's handiwork, or does he just get credit for the design successes?

The New York Times - Magazine

Shown are three versions, in red, green and blue, of two people in lively discourse, their features and bodies wittily observed.

The New York Times - Arts

– should have plenty of juice in it, because Fatal Attraction is already surrounded by a lively discourse about how the plot could have developed differently.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This afternoon at 3, "Hablando del Punto Cubano" ("Talking About Punto Cubano," 1972) features Octavio Cortazar bringing together musicians and ethnomusicologists for a lively discourse on music from the countryside.

The New York Times

It is a piece that could seem entirely cerebral in other hands, but the Met players shaped Mr. Kirchner's lines with such warmth and flexibility as to give the impression of a lively discourse.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

And not only do men come to look at the feet, they engage in lively discourses reminiscent of Plato's Symposium.

Vice

Contemporary art in all fields should be a lively, continuing discourse between creators and audiences.

The New York Times - Arts

Together with Californian journals, such as "Arts & Architecture," the schools fostered a lively intellectual discourse on design.

The New York Times - Arts

"Such a lively discussion!

The New Yorker

A lively discussion ensued.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lively discourse" to describe a discussion or debate that is both engaging and intellectually stimulating. It's suitable for formal writing and adds a touch of sophistication.

Common error

While "lively discourse" is a valid phrase, avoid using it in very casual conversations or informal writing where simpler terms like "active discussion" or "spirited chat" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "lively discourse" is to act as a noun phrase describing a particular type of interaction or communication. The adjective "lively" modifies the noun "discourse", indicating the energetic and engaging nature of the conversation or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lively discourse" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes an engaging and animated conversation or discussion. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, and its frequency is uncommon, appearing most often in news and media, as well as scientific sources. Consider alternatives such as "spirited discussion" or "animated debate" for slight variations in meaning. When using "lively discourse", ensure it fits the register of your writing, avoiding overuse in highly informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spirited discussion

Replaces "discourse" with "discussion" and "lively" with "spirited", emphasizing enthusiasm.

engaging discussion

Emphasizes the captivating nature of the discussion.

animated debate

Substitutes "discourse" with "debate" and "lively" with "animated", highlighting the dynamic exchange of ideas.

passionate debate

Emphasizes the intensity and emotional investment in the debate.

vigorous exchange

Uses "vigorous exchange" instead of "lively discourse", focusing on the intensity of the interaction.

vibrant exchange of ideas

Highlights the richness and diversity of the ideas being shared.

dynamic conversation

Replaces "discourse" with the more informal "conversation" and "lively" with "dynamic".

stimulating dialogue

Substitutes "discourse" with "dialogue" and "lively" with "stimulating", focusing on intellectual engagement.

active intellectual engagement

Focuses on the active and thoughtful nature of the interaction.

brisk conversation

Uses "brisk conversation" to suggest a quick-paced and energetic discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "lively discourse" in a sentence?

You can use "lively discourse" to describe an engaging conversation or discussion, as in, "The conference featured a panel that sparked a "lively discourse" among the attendees."

What are some alternatives to "lively discourse"?

Alternatives include "spirited discussion", "animated debate", or "vigorous exchange", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "lively discourse" formal or informal?

"Lively discourse" is suitable for both formal and semi-formal contexts. While versatile, in very informal settings, simpler phrases like "active conversation" may be preferable.

What makes a discourse "lively"?

A "lively discourse" is characterized by enthusiastic participation, intellectual stimulation, and an engaging exchange of ideas. It implies that the discussion is active and thought-provoking.