redirect the conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "redirect the conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to change the topic of discussion to something else, often to steer it in a more productive or relevant direction. Example: "During the meeting, I had to redirect the conversation to focus on our upcoming project deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Officers are trained to redirect the conversation, offering, "We'll see what we can do".

The New York Times

It might redirect the conversation from how Russia treats gays to whether the United States overreacted.

The New York Times

Other employees may find it useful to tune out this type of employee or redirect the conversation away from the complaint, she says.

The New York Times

If I can't redirect the conversation, and my tone of voice and other nuances of my speech are going to be ignored, I would rather simply push buttons.

The New York Times

Klaus Biesenbach, who was the curator of Ms. Abramovic's MoMA show and is a longtime friend, said the institute was an effort by the artist to redirect the conversation away from herself.

The New York Times - Arts

By pretending to be a 13-year-old boy who spoke English as a second language, the machine explained away its many incoherencies, and with a smattering of crude humour and offensive remarks, managed to redirect the conversation when unable to give a straight answer.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

A final proposal Saturday night by the rebels, trying to redirect the conversations, was rejected.

The New York Times

Wheeler gradually redirected the conversation to the Falkland Islands.

The New Yorker

Mr. Moal redirected the conversation, telling Mr. Grimsley to start by choosing an engine.

The New York Times

With his attention-grabbing play, Vick has redirected the conversation away from what he did off the field to what he is doing on it.

The New York Times - Sports

As to the possible shape of a post-war Iraq, the Kibbutz-raised Mr Peres again redirects the conversation, his answer justifying military action rather than speculating on its fallout.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "redirect the conversation" to smoothly transition away from uncomfortable or unproductive topics. For example, in a tense family gathering, you might "redirect the conversation" to a lighter subject.

Common error

Don't "redirect the conversation" too abruptly, as it can come across as rude or dismissive. Instead, use transitional phrases to make the shift more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "redirect the conversation" functions as a verb phrase. It is used to describe the act of changing the subject or focus of a discussion. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature, and the examples show its practical application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "redirect the conversation" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe changing the subject of a discussion. Ludwig examples show it is widely used across news, media, and general contexts. While 'Ludwig' confirms its acceptability, it's important to use this phrase judiciously to avoid being perceived as rude or dismissive. Alternatives like "change the subject" or "steer the conversation" can provide softer ways to make the transition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change the subject

This is a more direct and general way of saying to redirect the conversation, without necessarily implying a specific goal or direction.

steer the conversation

Similar to redirecting, but implies a more gentle and controlled change of direction.

shift the focus

This alternative emphasizes changing what is being emphasized in the discussion.

turn the discussion

A simple and straightforward way to indicate a change in the direction of the conversation.

deviate from the topic

This suggests a departure from the original subject, often unintentionally.

bring the conversation back on track

This is used when the conversation has strayed and needs to be focused again.

take the conversation in another direction

This emphasizes initiating a new path for the discussion.

move on to another topic

A more explicit way to signal a change in subject.

change the subject matter

Highlights a complete change of the theme being discussed.

pivot the discussion

Implies a strategic shift in the topic being discussed.

FAQs

How can I politely "redirect the conversation"?

You can politely "redirect the conversation" by using transitional phrases such as, "That's interesting, but I was also wondering about..." or "Before we delve deeper, let's also consider...". This helps to smoothly introduce a new topic without being abrupt.

When is it appropriate to "redirect the conversation"?

It's appropriate to "redirect the conversation" when the current topic is becoming uncomfortable, unproductive, or irrelevant to the overall goal. It can also be useful when you need to "bring the conversation back on track".

What can I say instead of "redirect the conversation"?

You can use alternatives like "change the subject", "steer the conversation", or "shift the focus" depending on the context.

Is it always a good idea to "redirect the conversation"?

No, it's not always a good idea. Sometimes, it's important to address difficult topics directly. "Redirecting the conversation" should be used judiciously to avoid shutting down important discussions or appearing dismissive.