talk over something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "talk over something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue in detail, often to reach a decision or understanding. Example: "Let's talk over the project details before we finalize our plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"You used to wait to go to the water cooler or a cocktail party to talk over something," said Richard Laermer, chief executive at RLM Public Relations in New York.

The New York Times

Call to make plans or to talk over something concrete, so you don't look desperate.

WikiHow

Let them know you have to talk over something with them, so that they understand you better.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

If your mood can be described as a HAILSTORM, it's probably something to talk over with a THERAPIST.

The New York Times

I worry about money a lot it's probably something I should talk over with a therapist, except I can't afford one.

Vice

Afterwards, ask her to teach you your favourite combination (Dance-Talk for "Something Done Over And Over To The Same Song Across The Floor") or dance.

WikiHow

"One of the essays was talk about something you committed to over the summer, and I was just like, 'Oh boy,' " he recalled.

The New York Times

"Do you want to talk about something?" will go over a lot better than "Why don't you ever talk to me??".

WikiHow

Earlier this week, she called in the middle of the day - she wanted to talk something over, she wanted some advice.

The New York Times

Why do we talk about something when other European languages talk over or of it?

The Economist

CBS' "The Talk" scored something of an upset over perennial favorite "Ellen" in the entertainment talk show category. .

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "talk over something", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being discussed to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Let's talk over the budget proposal" is more specific than "Let's talk over something."

Common error

Avoid using "talk over something" in highly formal documents or presentations. Opt for more professional alternatives like "discuss", "review", or "consider" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "talk over something" primarily functions as a means to initiate discussion with the purpose of deliberation or problem-solving. As seen in the provided examples in Ludwig, it's often used when wanting to address something specific. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "talk over something" is a grammatically sound phrasal verb used to describe the act of discussing a specific issue or topic to reach an understanding or decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for written English, though it leans towards informality. While alternatives like "discuss something" or "go over something" may be more appropriate in formal settings, "talk over something" remains a useful and common expression in everyday conversation and less formal writing. Its frequency is considered uncommon, primarily appearing in News & Media and Wiki contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discuss something

Emphasizes a more formal and structured discussion.

go over something

Implies a review or examination of details.

consider something

Suggests a thoughtful evaluation or deliberation.

address a matter

Highlights the act of dealing with a specific issue.

hash something out

Conveys a more informal and potentially argumentative discussion to reach a resolution.

deliberate on a topic

Indicates a careful and prolonged discussion.

debate an issue

Focuses on a formal discussion with opposing viewpoints.

confer about something

Implies a consultation or collaboration in the discussion.

review the details

Focuses on examining specifics and facts related to a topic.

speak about something

Suggests a general discussion without necessarily implying a decision or resolution.

FAQs

What does "talk over something" mean?

The phrase "talk over something" means to discuss a topic in detail, often to reach a decision or understanding. It implies a thorough conversation about a particular matter.

What can I say instead of "talk over something"?

You can use alternatives like "discuss something", "go over something", or "consider something" depending on the context.

How can I use "talk over something" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "We need to "talk over something" before making a decision" or "Let's "talk over something" at the meeting tomorrow".

Is "talk over something" formal or informal?

The phrase "talk over something" is generally considered informal. In more formal settings, it's better to use phrases like "discuss something" or "review something".