text conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "text conversation" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to a dialogue that takes place through text messages, typically on a mobile device or messaging app. Example: "We had a long text conversation about our plans for the weekend." Alternative expressions include "text chat" and "text exchange."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The last text conversation we had was about how much I work.

Independent

However, photography will remain the keystone of Instagram's business, and every text conversation must start with a picture message.

Independent

Two people equipped with TTY devices can communicate with each other over phone lines in a straight text conversation.

The New York Times - Tech

Today Mrs Speed told the inquest into his death at Warrington Coroner's Court that she had had a text conversation with Speed, 42, just days before he died.

Independent

He had tried to corrupt Scott Spencer, a player with Hyde FC, in a text conversation by offering him £2,000.

The Guardian - Sport

This particular text conversation continues for another sixty-four minuntiluntitsits participants decide to abandon the plan altogether, and to start with "White Noise".

The New Yorker

There was also a post on Tunsil's Instagram account showing an alleged text conversation with a football staff member about arranging payment for bills.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Other days, he replicated text conversations on a manual typewriter, thinking about what online shorthand means.

The New Yorker

Elite Digits Instant messaging -- real-time electronic text conversations -- is a bona fide cultural phenomenon.

The New York Times - Tech

The app is seamlessly integrated with Meebo's online service, so you can carry on multiple text conversations while you're on the move.

The New York Times - Tech

In 2014 we saw a computer pass the Turing test – its responses in a series of text conversations convinced 30% of human interrogators that it was human.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a specific instance, use "text conversation" to clearly distinguish it from other forms of digital communication. For example, "The evidence presented included a screenshot of their text conversation."

Common error

Avoid using "text conversation" when referring to other forms of written dialogue, such as email exchanges or social media comments. "Text conversation" specifically implies messages exchanged via SMS or messaging apps.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "text conversation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an exchange of messages using text-based communication, often via mobile devices, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

28%

Tech

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Huffington Post

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "text conversation" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an exchange of messages via text. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, primarily in news, media and informal settings. While neutral in tone, the content within a "text conversation" can vary in formality. Related phrases include "textual exchange" and "messaging exchange". When using the term, it's important to ensure it accurately reflects communication happening via SMS or messaging apps, avoiding misapplication to other digital exchanges. Ludwig's analysis highlights its versatility and relevance in modern communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

textual exchange

Focuses on the exchange aspect, highlighting the back-and-forth nature using a more formal term.

messaging exchange

Uses a broader term, "messaging", to encompass various platforms beyond SMS.

phone messaging

Specifically mentions the phone as the medium.

SMS dialogue

Replaces "text" with its technical term "SMS" and "conversation" with "dialogue", adding a technical and slightly more formal tone.

mobile messaging

Highlights that the messaging takes place on mobile devices.

online chat

Emphasizes the real-time or near real-time aspect of the conversation using the term "chat".

instant messaging

Highlights the immediacy of the message exchange.

digital correspondence

A more formal and general term encompassing any form of written communication online.

digital discourse

Replaces "conversation" with the more formal term "discourse", suggesting a more structured or meaningful exchange.

written communication

A broad term that describes the exchange in general.

FAQs

How can I start a "text conversation"?

Initiate the exchange with a simple question, a relevant observation, or a shared piece of media. Tailor your opening to the recipient and the context for a natural start.

What's the difference between a "text conversation" and "instant messaging"?

While both involve real-time text exchange, "text conversation" is a general term. "Instant messaging" refers specifically to platforms designed for immediate text-based communication, like WhatsApp or Telegram.

Is "text conversation" formal or informal?

The term itself is neutral, but the formality of the conversation depends on the content and the relationship between participants. The medium is generally considered more informal than email, for example.

What can I say instead of "begin a text conversation"?

Alternatives include "start a text exchange", "initiate a message thread", or "open a chat window depending on the specific platform you're referencing." However, in most casual instances, "start texting" works fine.