start a dialog

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start a dialog" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when initiating a conversation or discussion on a particular topic or issue. Example: "To address the concerns raised by the community, we need to start a dialog about potential solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

By tracking these social engagements, brands, digital studios, and creators can know what influential people are saying about them, and to start a dialog with them as a way to build and grow their fan bases.

TechCrunch

He plasters his artwork, which often contrasts iconic paintings with vivid pop art rendered firearms, in dangerous public spaces, hoping to start a dialog about the dire situation in Honduras.

Vice

To start a dialog on the bigger issue, simply look at how powerful our personal digital filters have become (they literally allow us to blanket ourselves in the comfort of "only" the information we want to hear, the way we want to hear it) and how empowered we feel when we egocast or facebrag.

Huffington Post

Theoretical modeling can start a dialog concerning other indicators which are potentially useful and shown from previous smaller-scale studies to indicate pain beyond self-reports from the resident, such as the use of nonverbal pain scales.

Clinical interventions in aging

Except under certain circumstances (he's your professor or there are serious time constraints, for example), it could be in your best interests to start a dialog before diving right in and asking to meet your idol first.

WikiHow

Consider some Activities: There are some who have small gifts for the children, others might look at pictures or have some out on a counter or table, others might allow conversations to spark without planning, still others will just start a dialog by saying aloud, "So what do you think mom would think of this party"?, and some may even share funny memories.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

They started a dialog with us, and they ended it".

The New York Times

She typically started a dialog with an explanation and then gave a question about scientific knowledge followed by questions about observations/data and then about patterns from data.

International Journal of STEM Education

Peter did just that, sending a very polite email to "[email protected]" asking for additional information on their funding and, hopefully, starting a dialog.

TechCrunch

But when I started a dialog, it felt like we were speaking the same language.

Vice

But the benefit to us in starting a dialog with the guys we're at odds with seems like a good step in narrowing our differences.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "start a dialog", clearly define the topic to encourage focused and productive conversation. State the purpose of the discussion at the outset.

Common error

Avoid vague prompts that might lead the dialog astray. Ensure the initial statement or question is specific enough to guide the conversation effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start a dialog" functions as an action-oriented expression, indicating the initiation of a communicative exchange. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in English. The phrase often sets the stage for further discussion, debate, or mutual understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "start a dialog" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that serves to initiate conversation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its adaptability makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While alternatives like "begin a conversation" and "initiate a discussion" exist, "start a dialog" maintains its relevance in encouraging open communication. To employ it effectively, ensure clarity in your opening remarks to guide the ensuing conversation, avoiding vagueness that can derail the discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin a conversation

Emphasizes the commencement of an exchange between individuals.

initiate a discussion

Highlights the act of formally introducing a topic for debate or consideration.

open up a discussion

Suggests creating an environment conducive to sharing views.

launch a conversation

Implies a more active and purposeful beginning of the exchange.

commence a dialogue

A more formal way of expressing the beginning of a conversation, especially one that is sustained.

foster a conversation

Focuses on nurturing and developing the conversation.

spark a discussion

Highlights the act of initiating a lively or interesting conversation.

establish a conversation

Points to the creation of a formal and well-defined exchange.

trigger a discussion

Suggests that the conversation is initiated by a specific event or issue.

set up a discussion

Focuses on the preparation and organization of a conversation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "start a dialog"?

To "start a dialog" means to initiate a conversation or discussion, typically with the goal of exchanging ideas or resolving an issue.

How can I "start a dialog" effectively?

Begin by clearly stating the topic or issue you want to discuss. Frame your initial remarks in a way that invites others to share their perspectives.

What are some alternatives to "start a dialog"?

You can use alternatives like "begin a conversation", "initiate a discussion", or "open up a discussion" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "start a dialog"?

It's appropriate to "start a dialog" when you want to exchange ideas, address concerns, or work towards a solution through conversation.