start a discourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start a discourse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when initiating a conversation or discussion on a particular topic. Example: "To address the pressing issues in our community, we need to start a discourse that includes all voices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But Mannan wanted to start a discourse around LGBT issues, a subject that is so opposed and so stigmatised in Bangladesh.

The Guardian

But being practical and legitimate usually involves political lobbying or trying to start a discourse with legislators, not telling a bunch of stoners something they already know.

Vice

This study calls for a new angle in studying the complex dynamics of restraint reduction, and will hopefully start a discourse on how best to move restraint reduction studies forward.

BMC Nursing

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Ice is one of the most important elements in a cocktail," said Ms. Weatherup, clearly warming up to the topic, before starting a discourse on the different cuts of ice, and the drinks for which they are used.

The New York Times

But the real thing is just putting the work out there and starting a discourse and seeing whether it can be taken for what it is, divorced from all the preconceptions and baggage that people attach to the fact that he had a career in fashion".

The New York Times - Arts

After explaining changes in quality, Avempace suddenly starts a discourse on force or power (qûwa) and on the moving power (qûwa muḥarrika; Ibn Bâjja 1995, pp. 26 40).

SEP

It was conscious, about starting a discourse while invoking rebellion and empowering for them.

Vice

The second bad omen came some 40 minutes later when Judge Sauls, ever the polite Southern gentleman, allowed a lawyer, one who did not even represent any of the principal players, to start a rambling discourse on the metaphorical links between manual recounts and George Orwell's "Animal Farm".

The New York Times

It only takes one educator to start a school discourse, one class period to inspire a room of students.

Huffington Post

The ultimate goal of an effort such as this campaign is to start a public discourse about just what sort of role technology should and should not play in the lethality of war.

Huffington Post

It also started a public discourse on the topic of vitiligo, a relatively unknown condition before then.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "start a discourse", clearly define the scope and objectives of the intended discussion to ensure participants understand the purpose of the engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "start a discourse" when you actually intend to describe initiating a debate. A discourse is a more open-ended and exploratory exchange, while a debate often involves opposing sides arguing for specific positions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start a discourse" functions as a verbal phrase used to describe the initiation of a formal and prolonged conversation or discussion. As Ludwig confirms, it is correct and appropriate for use in written English. Examples show it used to initiate discussions around specific issues.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start a discourse" is a grammatically sound and appropriate way to describe initiating a conversation or discussion, particularly when aiming for a deliberate and thoughtful exchange of ideas. Ludwig confirms its correctness. While not extremely common, it appears across various contexts, with a higher frequency in news media and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it's important to define the scope and objectives of the discussion to ensure clarity and purpose. Alternative phrases, like "initiate a conversation" or "begin a dialogue", may be more suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate a conversation

Focuses on the beginning of an informal exchange of ideas.

launch a discussion

Emphasizes the act of beginning a more structured debate.

begin a dialogue

Highlights the importance of a two-way communication process.

foster a debate

Emphasizes promotion and development of public deliberation.

open up a conversation

Highlights the idea of creating a possibility of a conversation.

spark a discussion

Implies a more dynamic and sudden initiation of an exchange.

trigger a conversation

Similar to spark, it implies an event that immediately initiates the conversation.

commence a dialogue

Synonymous, but more formal than "begin a dialogue".

kick off a debate

Implies a casual, informal way to launch a discussion or debate.

set in motion a discussion

Emphasizes a gradual, initiated progress of a discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "start a discourse" in a sentence?

You can use "start a discourse" to describe initiating a conversation or discussion on a particular topic. For example, "The aim of the conference is to start a discourse on climate change policies".

What are some alternatives to "start a discourse"?

Some alternatives include "initiate a conversation", "launch a discussion", or "begin a dialogue". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it better to "start a discourse" or "begin a discourse"?

"Start a discourse" and "begin a discourse" are both correct and have similar meanings. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations. "Start" is slightly more common in contemporary usage.

What is the difference between "start a discourse" and "start a debate"?

"Start a discourse" implies initiating a broader, more open-ended conversation, while "start a debate" suggests setting up a structured argument with opposing viewpoints. The former aims to explore ideas, the latter to argue for specific positions.