stretch the topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stretch the topic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the expansion or elaboration of a subject in a conversation or written work. Example: "In our discussion, I would like to stretch the topic of climate change to include its economic impacts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I hate to disappoint you folks, but unless we stretch the topic to breaking point this address will not be about "community and belonging".

The Guardian - Opinion

The festival had asked her to speak on the topic of "community and belonging," but she wouldn't be doing that, she said, "unless we stretch the topic to breaking point".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

19 (2.3) The inquiry in lines 1 2 comes after a stretch of talk occupied by the topic of Franco's negative mental state.

Disability and Rehabilitation

We will further expand on the topic of stretch-induced activation of cardioprotection in the next section.

Dose-Response

While Bill Clinton barnstormed with Barrett in the home stretch, Obama barely mustered a tweet on the topic.

The Guardian - Opinion

The topic is whether, and how, to create a free trade zone stretching from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

The New York Times

But if the topic happens to be the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, the transition isn't such a stretch.

The New York Times

"That theory is a real stretch," Kenneth Foster, a bioengineering professor at the University of Pennsylvania, told the New Scientist in December following Lin's paper on the topic.

Huffington Post

The topic?

The New York Times

The topic riles him.

The New York Times - Sports

The topic was Corvettes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stretch the topic", ensure you have a clear justification for expanding beyond the original scope. Provide relevant and valuable insights to maintain audience engagement.

Common error

Don't "stretch the topic" to the point where it becomes irrelevant or disjointed. Ensure all additions directly contribute to the central theme.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stretch the topic" functions as a verb phrase where "stretch" acts as a transitive verb, taking "topic" as its direct object. It indicates an action of extending or expanding a particular subject beyond its initial boundaries. Ludwig confirms its usage in expanding discussions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stretch the topic" is a phrase used to describe the act of expanding or extending a subject in discussion or analysis. While Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and understandable, its frequency is relatively rare. It appears mostly in news and media contexts, but also surfaces in scientific discussions. When using the phrase, ensure that any extensions remain relevant and contribute meaningfully to the original subject. Be mindful of unnecessary digressions that may dilute the focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expand on the subject

This alternative focuses on broadening the scope of the subject.

elaborate on the matter

This alternative emphasizes providing more detail about the matter.

extend the discussion

This alternative highlights prolonging the duration of the discussion.

broaden the scope

This alternative focuses on widening the area covered by the topic.

delve deeper into the issue

This alternative suggests exploring the issue in greater detail.

expound on the theme

This alternative implies a more formal and detailed explanation of the theme.

amplify the details

This alternative suggests increasing the amount of detail provided.

inflate the importance of the topic

This alternative implies exaggerating the significance of the topic.

overemphasize the point

This alternative suggests placing too much importance on a specific point.

pad out the content

This alternative implies adding unnecessary information to lengthen the content.

FAQs

How can I effectively "stretch the topic" in a presentation?

Start with a concise overview, then use relevant examples, data, or anecdotes to "expand on the subject" while maintaining a logical flow. Ensure each addition enhances understanding.

Is it acceptable to "stretch the topic" if it leads to a related but distinct area?

Yes, but make the connection explicit. Clearly explain how the related area builds upon the original topic, providing context for the "extended discussion".

What are some alternatives to "stretch the topic"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "elaborate on the matter", "extend the discussion", or "broaden the scope".

When is it inappropriate to "stretch the topic"?

It's inappropriate when the added information is irrelevant, confusing, or detracts from the main point. Avoid stretching the topic if it means sacrificing clarity or focus.