starting conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "starting conversation" is not entirely correct in English; it should be "starting a conversation." You can use it when referring to the act of initiating a dialogue or discussion with someone.
Example: "I find that starting a conversation with a compliment can break the ice."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

They're perfect for starting conversation at a holiday cocktail party.

The New York Times

The I.B.M. car also develops a profile for each driver and keeps him alert by starting conversation.

The New York Times - Travel

"I'm a big fan of Norman Lear, big fan of that type of talking about something, starting conversation.

Huffington Post

It's about starting conversation with people you meet everywhere, so on any given Sunday you can end up with a phone number.

Huffington Post

"I like the idea of starting conversation and changing and progressing to match our society right now instead of staying kind of rooted in tradition".

Huffington Post

Homosexuality is technically not illegal in Russia, but the new "straight flag" has been starting conversation about a 2013 Russia law book in which Vladimir Putin banned symbols promoting "non-traditional" values, the Independent points out.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Starting conversations, however, is a good thing.

The New York Times

People were actually smiling at strangers and starting conversations.

The New York Times

Avoid starting conversations while drunk.

WikiHow

Notice if you're always the one starting conversations.

WikiHow

Tells of man who starts conversation with shopkeeper.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for precision, prefer "starting a conversation" over "starting conversation". This slight adjustment aligns with standard English grammar and enhances clarity.

Common error

Many speakers omit the article "a" before "conversation". Ensure you include it ("starting a conversation") unless using the phrase as a gerund (e.g., "Starting conversation is key to networking").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "starting conversation" functions as a gerund phrase, where "starting" acts as a verb form serving as a noun. It refers to the act of initiating a dialogue. According to Ludwig, the phrase benefits from adding the article 'a' for improved grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

41%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "starting conversation" refers to the act of initiating a dialogue. While usable, according to Ludwig AI, the phrase is enhanced by including the article "a" ("starting a conversation") for grammatical precision. The phrase functions as a gerund and has a neutral to informal register, appearing most frequently in news and general content. Alternatives such as "initiating dialogue" or "breaking the ice" offer varying degrees of formality and nuance depending on the context. Therefore, when using "starting conversation", consider the specific setting and audience to ensure the most appropriate and grammatically sound expression is chosen.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiating dialogue

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the beginning of a structured exchange.

commencing conversation

A formal alternative to indicate the beginning of a dialogue.

sparking discussion

This alternative suggests a more energetic and possibly controversial beginning to a conversation.

getting a discussion going

Emphasizes the continuation and flow of the conversation rather than just the start.

opening discourse

This option is quite formal, suited for academic or professional contexts.

prompting a conversation

Suggests that something has triggered the conversation, making it less spontaneous.

launching into talk

This phrase suggests a more informal and spontaneous start to a conversation.

raising a topic

Implies introducing a specific subject to begin a conversation, often in a deliberate manner.

setting the stage for discussion

Focuses on creating the right environment or context for a conversation to begin.

breaking the ice

Implies overcoming initial awkwardness to start a conversation, typically in a social setting.

FAQs

How can I use "starting conversation" in a sentence?

While "starting conversation" is sometimes used, it's more grammatically correct to say "starting a conversation". For example, "The key to networking is "starting a conversation" with someone new".

What's a more formal way to say "starting conversation"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "initiating dialogue" or "commencing conversation". These alternatives are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

Is "starting conversation" grammatically correct?

Technically, it's more accurate to say "starting a conversation." However, "starting conversation" is sometimes used informally. Ludwig AI highlights the importance of the article 'a' for grammatical correctness.

What are some casual ways to express "starting conversation"?

Informally, you could use phrases like "breaking the ice" or "getting a discussion going". These options are less formal and more conversational.