Cool MateConversation
UK /["/ˌkɒnvəˈseɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌkɑːnvərˈseɪʃn/"]/
Definition
an informal talk involving a small group of people or only two; the activity of talking in this way
In simple words: A talk between two or more people.
Examples
- I had a long conversation with my friend about our weekend plans.
- A good conversation can make a dull evening interesting.
- She is great at starting a conversation with new people.
- The conversation between the teachers and parents was productive.
- They enjoyed a deep conversation about their favorite books.
Usage notes
Use 'conversation' in both formal and informal contexts. It may not be appropriate for written formal documents, where 'discussion' might fit better.
Grammar pattern
conversation + between + participants
Memory hint
Think of 'converse' — like two people turning to each other to talk.
Collocations
- brief
- short
- lengthy
- snatch
- carry on
- have
- hold
- occur
- take place
- continue
- during conversation
- in conversation with
- conversation about
- an attempt at conversation
- be in… conversation (with somebody)
- a buzz of conversation
Synonyms
- discussion
- talk
- chat
- dialogue
- communication
Antonyms
- silence
- monologue
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'dialogue' which is typically more structured.
- Using 'conversation' as a countable noun incorrectly — e.g., saying 'two conversations' is correct.
- Mixing it up with 'chat', which is more casual.