stir up discussions

USAGE SUMMARY

'stir up discussions' is a correct and usable English phrase.
You can use it when talking about bringing up a topic of conversation or provoking an argument. Example: The professor was an excellent teacher, always able to stir up interesting discussions in the classroom.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This incidentally was not the original intention of the scenario; it was merely designed to stir up discussions – which it did.

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The recent rape and abduction of 276 female adolescents in Nigeria have further stirred up discussions and media attention about rape of girls and women within the context of conflict in the country (Table 1).

Global Health Action

By Jon Michaud October 27, 2009 The publication of the Library of America's edition of Raymond Carver's "Collected Stories," has again stirred up discussion about Carver's relationship with Gordon Lish, who edited his early stories and his first two books.

The New Yorker

Monday's news that Williams had died from an apparent suicide has stirred up discussion about depression in general and what we now know were Williams' lifelong struggles in particular.

Los Angeles Times

Mr. Icahn is likely to stir up lively discussion of his own.

The New York Times

In order to stir up a discussion on the nature of materialism, he mimicked the behaviors of manufacturers who strive to package their products in the most appealing ways.

Huffington Post

These findings are likely to stir up more discussion about the limits of automation, a topic that was brought to the forefront by complaints surrounding the core competency of the co-pilots on Air France 447, which crashed into the Atlantic killing everyone aboard.

Huffington Post

‎If you're demonized for being "worst-dressed," and you stir up the haters, even better; the discussion will go on for days and days.

Los Angeles Times

Because of the high traffic they generate, featured articles may attract vandals (those who deliberately damage pages) and trolls (those who try to stir up controversy, particularly on an article discussion page).

WikiHow

Locals seem less stirred up.

The Economist

They're all stirred up.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stir up discussions" when you want to express the idea of actively prompting or initiating conversations, especially on topics that might be sensitive or controversial. It suggests a deliberate effort to get people talking.

Common error

While "stir up discussions" is acceptable in many contexts, it might be too informal for highly professional or academic writing. Consider using more formal alternatives like "promote dialogue" or "foster debate" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stir up discussions" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It describes the action of actively prompting or initiating conversations, often on topics that might be sensitive or controversial. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment as a correct and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stir up discussions" is a correct and commonly used English phrase that means to initiate or provoke conversation. Ludwig confirms its usability and appropriateness. While versatile, it's best to consider the context and opt for more formal alternatives like "promote dialogue" in academic or professional settings. The phrase is frequently found in news and media, science contexts, and business contexts, emphasizing its role in sparking engagement and exchanging ideas. Understanding its nuances helps ensure effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spark debate

Replaces "discussions" with "debate", implying a more formal or contentious exchange.

ignite conversation

Uses "ignite" for a more vivid sense of starting a conversation instead of "stir up".

provoke dialogue

Replaces "discussions" with "dialogue", suggesting a more structured and purposeful exchange.

foster debate

Shifts the focus to nurturing or encouraging an ongoing debate.

generate buzz

Focuses on creating excitement and interest around a topic.

prompt conversations

Uses "prompt" to suggest initiating a series of conversations.

raise questions

Emphasizes the act of introducing topics that invite inquiry and discussion.

incite dialogue

Implies a stronger, potentially more controversial initiation of dialogue.

set off a debate

Suggests triggering or initiating a debate, often with a more forceful connotation.

instigate arguments

Highlights the potential for disagreement and opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "stir up discussions" in a sentence?

You can use "stir up discussions" to describe initiating a conversation, as in, "The controversial article stirred up discussions about ethics in journalism".

What are some synonyms for "stir up discussions"?

Alternatives include "spark debate", "ignite conversation", or "provoke dialogue", depending on the context.

Is "stir up discussions" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, it may be better to use more formal phrases like "promote dialogue" or "foster debate" in academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "stir up discussions" and "have discussions"?

"Stir up discussions" implies initiating or provoking conversations, while "have discussions" simply means engaging in them.