push the conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

"push the conversation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to guide or steer a conversation in a particular direction or to encourage it to continue. You can use it when talking about actively participating in a conversation or trying to keep it going. For example: - "I tried to push the conversation towards a more positive topic." - "She was skilled at pushing the conversation and keeping it lively." - "We need to push the conversation further to reach a resolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Later, when they met again, he tried to push the conversation toward a particular sum.

The New Yorker

But they're not helping push the conversation through to what's going to solve the problem.

The New York Times

But 30 years ago Mr. Anastasi helped to push the conversation in the art world along.

The New York Times - Arts

And two, we have a responsibility to push the conversation forward until we're all equal.

The New York Times

The hope is that Nas and Damian can push the conversation beyond just being the cool thing to riff on".

The New York Times - Arts

Win or lose, this case continues to push the conversation about how we treat animals and how we can protect them.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Oh, that's weird," said one of them, before they pushed the conversation aside.

The Guardian - Opinion

"What's the best thing about Saddam being gone?" asked Harvin, pushing the conversation back on message.

The New Yorker

"They can draw more powerful conclusions with this data, and I'm hoping this pushes the conversation along.

The New York Times

"An awful thing happened in that village," I said, pushing the conversation into the discomforting place it had to go.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was always about, Do you have something to say, are you presenting something new, is it pushing the conversation forward, is it breaking the genre?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "push the conversation" when you want to convey a sense of actively directing a discussion toward a specific topic or outcome. It implies a deliberate effort to move the conversation in a chosen direction.

Common error

While "push the conversation" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in contexts where a more neutral or collaborative approach is needed. In such cases, consider alternatives like "guide the discussion" or "advance the dialogue".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push the conversation" functions as a verb phrase, with "push" acting as the main verb and "the conversation" as the direct object. It describes the act of influencing or directing a discussion. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts, demonstrating its ability to convey the idea of actively guiding a dialogue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "push the conversation" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that signifies actively directing a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it finds frequent application across diverse contexts, notably in news, academic writing, and even informal settings. While generally acceptable, it is important to avoid overuse, especially when a more collaborative approach is needed. Remember to utilize this phrase judiciously, ensuring it fits the specific context and communicative purpose you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advance the discussion

Focuses on forward progress, implying a smoother, less forceful approach than "push".

steer the conversation

Suggests a more subtle guidance, directing the flow rather than forcefully advancing it.

drive the dialogue

Implies strong leadership in the conversation, taking control and setting the agenda.

guide the discussion

Emphasizes a helpful and supportive role in leading the conversation.

direct the exchange

Highlights a more formal and controlled management of the conversation.

nudge the conversation forward

Suggests a gentle encouragement to keep the conversation progressing.

propel the discussion

Implies a strong force moving the conversation ahead, with less emphasis on direction.

influence the conversation

Focuses on affecting the content and direction of the conversation through persuasive means.

shape the dialogue

Highlights the act of molding and forming the conversation's content and outcome.

orient the discussion

Focuses on providing a framework and direction for the conversation, helping participants understand the context.

FAQs

What does "push the conversation" mean?

It means to actively guide or steer a discussion toward a specific topic, outcome, or direction. It implies a deliberate effort to influence the flow of the conversation.

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

You can use it like this: "The moderator tried to "push the conversation" towards solutions rather than dwelling on the problems."

What are some alternatives to "push the conversation"?

Some alternatives include "steer the conversation", "guide the discussion", or "advance the dialogue" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to "push the conversation"?

No, it's not always appropriate. In some situations, a more subtle approach might be better. Overly forceful attempts to "push the conversation" can be perceived as aggressive or dismissive of other people's opinions.