opening dialogue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "opening dialogue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of starting a conversation or discussion, often in a formal or diplomatic context. Example: "The conference aimed at opening dialogue between the two nations to address their ongoing issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"The university has shown no interest in opening dialogue and it's resorting to intimidation," said a spokesperson for the occupiers.

Independent

Instrumental in opening dialogue between the RAF LGBT community and RAF Equality and Diversity staff, and establishing the RAF LGBT Forum, which he chairs.

Independent

At the same time, Wilde's revisions to the opening dialogue between Basil and Lord Henry betray a rising anxiety, an urge to lower the emotional temperature.

The New Yorker

The opening dialogue about that girl kissing a four-hundred-pound blind date just to help him get "through his thirties" is priceless.

The New Yorker

But it was the junior minister who took upon himself the awesome responsibility for opening dialogue with the enemy without the authorization of his superiors.

The New York Times - Books

It's well-intended (so well-intended), but when the motivations seem to be less about opening dialogue about the issues, and more about performance, righteousness, and intolerance toward those who don't agree with you … well, I'm not on board.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"It opens dialogue.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's a way to open dialogue".

The New York Times

"Islamic State continue to ignore our pleas to open dialogue.

BBC

But he also renewed an offer to open dialogue with the two-month-old protest movement.

The New York Times

Van Persie has consistently maintained he will not open dialogue until the campaign is over.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "opening dialogue" when you want to emphasize the initiation of a conversation, especially in formal or diplomatic contexts. It suggests a deliberate effort to start a meaningful exchange.

Common error

Avoid using "opening dialogue" in very informal settings. Phrases like "starting a conversation" or "chatting" are more appropriate for casual discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opening dialogue" functions as a verb phrase modifying a noun. It describes the action of beginning a conversation or discussion, often with a specific purpose or goal in mind. As Ludwig AI confirms, the usage examples provided show it mainly appears in formal scenarios.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "opening dialogue" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of initiating a conversation or discussion, particularly in formal settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is more common in news, scientific, and business contexts. While not as frequent as simpler alternatives like "starting a conversation", "opening dialogue" carries a sense of purpose and formality. When using this phrase, keep in mind its best use cases: emphasizing the initiation of a meaningful exchange, especially in diplomatic or professional contexts. Avoid using it in casual or informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting discussions

Similar to initiating a discussion, but emphasizes multiple discussions.

initiating a discussion

Focuses on the action of beginning a discussion rather than the established connection.

engaging in conversation

Highlights the act of participating in a conversation from the beginning.

commencing communication

Emphasizes the start of a broader communication process.

establishing rapport

Highlights the building of a relationship as a first step in communication.

fostering communication

Suggests nurturing and encouraging ongoing conversation.

launching conversation

Uses the metaphor of launching to describe starting a conversation.

creating channels for discourse

Focuses on creating pathways for formal discussion.

building bridges for communication

Uses a metaphor to suggest connecting people for communication.

setting the stage for talks

Implies preparing conditions for further conversations.

FAQs

How can I use "opening dialogue" in a sentence?

You can use "opening dialogue" to describe the beginning of a formal discussion. For example, "The conference aimed at "opening dialogue" between the two nations to address their ongoing issues."

What are some alternatives to "opening dialogue"?

Alternatives include "initiating a discussion", "commencing communication", or "establishing rapport", depending on the context.

Is "opening dialogue" formal or informal?

"Opening dialogue" is generally considered a formal phrase, best suited for professional, academic, or diplomatic contexts.

How does "opening dialogue" differ from "starting a conversation"?

"Opening dialogue" often implies a more structured and purposeful initiation of communication, whereas "starting a conversation" is more general and can refer to informal exchanges.