tentative discussions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tentative discussions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to preliminary or informal conversations about a topic that may lead to further negotiations or agreements. Example: "The two companies are currently engaged in tentative discussions regarding a potential partnership."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

An interesting attempt to deal with "women's issues" through Kima and Beadie's tentative discussions of motherhood and work-life balance.

The Guardian

Sources close to the two companies say Hershey executives have held tentative discussions about a combined approach with Ferrero.

The Guardian - Business

She arrived to take part in the process at Corbyn's office for the first tentative discussions at 2.30pm on Monday.

The Guardian

ITV, Sky and Channel Five have so far shown no interest in broadcasting the game and tentative discussions with the BBC have got nowhere.

The Guardian - Sport

To be sure, since the initial US Airways bid for Delta a year ago, big airlines have had tentative discussions with one another about merging.

The New York Times

Executives at the BBC are believed to have held tentative discussions with leading City banks about floating off part of its commercial arm, BBC Worldwide.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

A tentative discussion is given to elucidate these phenomena.

Electrochimica Acta

The paper closes with a tentative discussion on how a chair's perceived expression could be related to the embodiment of schemas in its spatial and material features.

Design Studies

Although tentative planning discussions are also under way about reducing from 37,000 the number of American personnel while maintaining their combat punch and deterrent capability, Pentagon officials said that contentious issue would not be on Mr. Rumsfeld's agenda.

The New York Times

The vote was tentative, pending future discussions.

The New York Times - Magazine

A tentative plan under discussion calls for the United States to contribute about $2.2 billion or more of the $4 billion, with the Afghan government contributing $500 million and donations from the allies covering the remaining $1.3 billion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tentative discussions" when you want to emphasize that the conversations are still in the early stages and may not lead to concrete results. Frame the context to highlight the uncertain nature of these talks.

Common error

Avoid using "tentative discussions" when the negotiations are already advanced or a decision is imminent. This phrase suggests uncertainty and should not be used to describe near-final agreements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tentative discussions" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "tentative" modifies the noun "discussions". It describes the nature of the discussions as being preliminary, uncertain, or not yet finalized. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

23%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tentative discussions" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe preliminary or uncertain conversations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it is most effective when emphasizing the exploratory nature of the talks and should be avoided when describing near-final agreements. Related phrases such as "preliminary negotiations" and "exploratory talks" can offer similar meanings, depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preliminary negotiations

Emphasizes the initial stage and the potential for further development.

exploratory talks

Highlights the investigative nature of the conversations.

initial conversations

Focuses on the beginning phase of the discussions.

early stage negotiations

Highlights that the negotiations are at an early phase.

informal exchanges

Stresses the casual and unofficial nature of the dialogue.

unofficial consultations

Emphasizes the lack of formal structure in the discussions.

preliminary consultations

Points out that the consultations are taking place at the initial stage.

exploratory meetings

Highlights the fact that these are meetings for the purpose of exploration.

initial dialogues

Stresses the beginning stage of the dialogues.

preliminary dialogues

Emphasizes that the dialogues are at a beginning stage.

FAQs

What does "tentative discussions" mean?

The phrase "tentative discussions" refers to preliminary or exploratory conversations that are uncertain and may or may not lead to a final agreement or decision.

What are some alternatives to "tentative discussions"?

You can use alternatives such as "preliminary negotiations", "exploratory talks", or "initial conversations" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "tentative discussions" in a sentence?

You might say, "The companies are engaged in "tentative discussions" about a potential merger" or "The government is holding "tentative discussions" with rebel forces to explore a ceasefire."

Is it appropriate to use "tentative discussions" in formal writing?

Yes, "tentative discussions" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing early-stage negotiations or explorations of ideas. However, ensure it accurately reflects the level of uncertainty involved. Alternative phrases like "preliminary consultations" might suit even more formal contexts.