moving from topic to topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moving from topic to topic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation in which an individual or group keeps changing the topic of conversation. For example, "The conversation was all over the place; we kept moving from topic to topic without ever finishing any of them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

She has no prepared remarks, instead moving from topic to topic using her best lines, often verbatim from the book.

The Guardian

His jokes have the rambling feel of a free-associated yarn, but there's a sturdy structure that keeps him moving from topic to topic.

The New York Times - Arts

But with the unflagging help of Richard Burke, who wrote most of the music, plays her piano accompaniment and shares some difficult duets with her - in one instance, a tongue-twisting listing of British museums sung as a round - Miss Kurnitz keeps moving from topic to topic with airy confidence.

The New York Times - Arts

The nostalgia sessions have almost become daily, with gradually more disordered thoughts, until I have reached the stage in which I am speaking now, moving from topic to topic with no breaks or introductions.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He moves from topic to topic at a healthy pace.

The New York Times - Books

"It came up," he said, "but when you have 12 guys at a dinner you move from topic to topic".

The New York Times

Mr. Izzard is generous to a fault, and a shorter show might be a better one, but he moves from topic to topic so quickly and with such general originality and freshness that it is easy to forgive him and to wait with happy anticipation for his next visit.

The New York Times

Wagman takes issue with the way Davis moves from topic to topic and time period to time period.

Wikipedia

Far from creating an overall sense of living by biblical law, this book moves skittishly from topic to topic and generally forgets an idea after Mr. Jacobs has briefly toyed with it.

The New York Times - Books

"Typically leaders go from topic to topic, moving ahead when they're ready to," says Schwarz. "But people don't always move with you and they may get stuck in the past". Before you transition from one agenda item to another, ask if everyone is finished with the current topic.

Harvard Business Review

There's your spoiler". The gregarious actor moves easily from topic to topic, while enjoying the aforementioned eggs.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moving from topic to topic" to accurately describe a conversation or presentation style characterized by frequent subject changes. This phrase implies a lack of linear progression and can be used both neutrally and critically.

Common error

Avoid using "moving from topic to topic" as a positive trait unless the context clearly indicates skill in connecting disparate ideas. Overuse can signal disorganization or a lack of focus, so ensure transitions are understandable for the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moving from topic to topic" functions as a descriptive phrase, often used to characterize a speaking style, writing style, or a conversational pattern. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moving from topic to topic" is a common phrase used to describe the act of transitioning between various subjects, often without a clear linear progression. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable. While prevalent in news and media, its neutrality allows for use in various contexts. However, writers should be aware of the potential negative connotations of disorganization or lack of focus, and consider alternative descriptions like "intellectual agility" or "conversational versatility" when aiming for a more positive tone. Careful consideration of context and audience is essential when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shifting between subjects

Focuses on the act of changing the subject, emphasizing the back-and-forth motion.

jumping from subject to subject

Highlights the abruptness of the transitions between different subjects.

flitting between topics

Implies a light and rapid movement between topics, often lacking depth.

darting from subject to subject

Emphasizes quick and sudden changes in the conversation or discussion.

gliding from topic to topic

Suggests a smoother, more seamless transition between different subjects.

transitioning between subjects

Focuses on the process of changing from one subject to another.

changing the subject frequently

Directly states the action of changing the subject often.

digressing from the current topic

Highlights a departure from the main subject, often temporarily.

wandering through different topics

Emphasizes a lack of focus and a meandering path through various subjects.

drifting from one subject to another

Implies a passive and gradual shift between subjects.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "moving from topic to topic" in a presentation?

If you're "moving from topic to topic", ensure smooth transitions by using signposting language (e.g., "Now, let's shift our focus to...") or by creating a clear overarching theme that connects seemingly unrelated subjects.

What are some negative implications of constantly "moving from topic to topic"?

Constantly "moving from topic to topic" can be perceived as unfocused, disorganized, or even evasive. It can also lead to a lack of depth in discussion and frustrate listeners who are trying to follow a coherent line of reasoning.

What's a more positive way to describe someone who is "moving from topic to topic"?

Depending on the context, you might describe someone as exhibiting "intellectual agility", "conversational versatility", or "ability to connect ideas" if their transitions are seamless and insightful.

Is there a difference between "moving from topic to topic" and "jumping from topic to topic"?

"Moving from topic to topic" is generally a more neutral description, whereas "jumping from topic to topic" implies a more abrupt and potentially jarring transition. The latter suggests a lack of smooth flow or logical connection between subjects.