monopolize the conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

This part of a sentence is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is dominating a conversation to the point where they are not allowing others to speak, or when someone is talking excessively or excessively loudly. For example, "Anna seemed to be trying to monopolize the conversation, as she kept talking and didn't let anyone else get a word in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Taylor had allowed Harkins to pull rank on Vann and monopolize the conversation.

The New Yorker

Such ghosts of history, "Ghostbusters" seems to say, can't be allowed to monopolize the conversation: progress is about overcoming them, both literally and figuratively.

The New Yorker

Do not try and monopolize the conversation.

Huffington Post

On occasion, we may try to monopolize the conversation in order to control what is being said.

Los Angeles Times

The problem is, it's exhausting to be around someone that self-indulgent, especially when they monopolize the conversation and dictate your plans together.

Huffington Post

In the rare moment that we are able to interact with other members of the black community in discussions about our lives, we barely get a word in edgewise while they seem to always monopolize the conversation.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Try to not think of yourself the whole time, and try not to monopolize the conversations.

WikiHow

Like the guy who thinks every date he goes out on is a blast, because he monopolizes the conversation.

The New York Times

In state after state, conservative social issues that once monopolized the conversation of Southern suburbs -- lower taxes, welfare reform, crackdowns on crime -- have been supplanted by a new agenda: managing growth and transportation, bringing in technology jobs and above all, improving education.

The New York Times

This is the friend who monopolizes the conversation.

Huffington Post

You can probably guess which topic monopolizes the conversation.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "monopolize the conversation" judiciously; be mindful of how frequently you are speaking relative to others.

Common error

While "monopolize the conversation" accurately describes dominating a discussion, avoid using it in informal settings where a more relaxed, conversational style is expected, or to people you are trying to keep a relationship with. In such cases, consider alternatives like "dominating the discussion" or "hogging the conversation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "monopolize the conversation" functions as a verb phrase, with "monopolize" acting as the verb and "the conversation" as the object. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It describes the action of dominating a discussion, preventing others from participating equally.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "monopolize the conversation" effectively describes the act of dominating a discussion, preventing others from fully participating. While grammatically correct and usable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's important to be mindful of the context and tone when using this phrase. It commonly appears in news and media and wiki articles. Consider using alternatives like "dominate the discussion" or "hog the conversation" depending on the situation, and remember that good communication involves active listening and inclusive engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominate the discussion

Replaces "conversation" with "discussion", implying a more formal setting.

monopolize the dialogue

Substitutes conversation with dialogue, which indicates a structured exchange

hog the conversation

Uses the informal term "hog" to emphasize greediness in taking up conversation time.

dominate the talk

Substitutes "conversation" with "talk", indicating a broader range of communicative settings.

control the narrative

Focuses on steering the topic and viewpoint of the conversation.

steer the conversation

Implies guiding the conversation in a specific direction, potentially excluding other participants.

take over the conversation

Suggests a sudden and forceful assumption of control.

hijack the conversation

Uses a stronger term, implying a disruptive and unwanted takeover.

command the conversation

Emphasizes authority and control over the discussion.

corner the conversation

Highlights the act of boxing others out of the discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "monopolize the conversation" to describe someone who dominates a discussion, like: "She tended to "monopolize the conversation" during meetings, making it difficult for others to share their ideas."

What's a less formal way to say "monopolize the conversation"?

If you want to express the same idea in a more casual way, you could say someone is "hogging the conversation" or "dominating the talk".

What's the difference between "monopolize the conversation" and "dominate the conversation"?

"Monopolize the conversation" implies exclusive control, whereas "dominate the conversation" suggests strong influence but not necessarily complete exclusion of others.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "monopolize the conversation"?

It may be inappropriate in informal settings or when directly addressing someone who is doing it, as it can sound accusatory. Consider a gentler approach like "Let's give others a chance to speak".