17 Phrases for Introducing a Topic
Whether you’re starting a conversation, leading a meeting, or giving a presentation, how you introduce a topic sets the stage for everything that follows. Learning these 17 phrases for introducing a topic will help you begin discussions smoothly and confidently. This guide provides phrases for casual chats, formal presentations, and everything in between.
Common Ways to Start a Discussion
Casual Conversation Starters
- By the way,… A classic way to introduce a new but related topic casually. We were talking about work when I said, “By the way, did you hear about the new project?”
- That reminds me… Perfect for when something in the conversation sparks a new thought. She mentioned her vacation, and I said, “That reminds me, I need to book my flights.”
- Speaking of… Smoothly connects the current topic to a related one. “The weather has been so hot lately.” “Speaking of hot weather, have you tried the new ice cream shop?”
- I wanted to ask you about… A polite and direct way to bring up something you’ve been thinking about. “I wanted to ask you about that book you recommended last week.”
- Did you hear about…? A great way to introduce news or recent events. “Did you hear about the new park they’re building downtown?”
Formal & Professional Introductions
- I’d like to address… A formal way to state what you’re going to discuss. “I’d like to address the budget concerns that were raised last meeting.”
- Let’s turn our attention to… Directs the audience’s focus to a new subject. “Now that we’ve covered sales, let’s turn our attention to marketing strategies.”
- The purpose of this discussion is… Clearly states the objective at the beginning. “The purpose of this discussion is to brainstorm solutions for our delivery delays.”
- I’d like to bring up… A professional way to introduce a potentially sensitive topic. “I’d like to bring up the issue of workplace communication.”
- This brings me to my next point… A smooth transition between topics in a presentation. “We’ve seen the data on customer satisfaction. This brings me to my next point: how we can improve.”
Academic & Analytical Contexts
- In regards to… A formal phrase often used in writing and speeches. “In regards to climate change, we need to consider multiple factors.”
- When it comes to… Introduces a general category or subject area. “When it comes to learning a new language, consistency is key.”
- Regarding the matter of… A very formal introduction to a specific issue. “Regarding the matter of patient confidentiality, we have strict protocols.”
- With respect to… Similar to “in regards to,” used in formal and technical contexts. “With respect to your question about timeline, here’s what we propose.”
- On the subject of… A slightly formal but versatile way to introduce a topic. “On the subject of team building, I have some suggestions.”
Creative & Engaging Approaches
- Have you ever wondered…? Engages curiosity and invites reflection. “Have you ever wondered why we dream?”
- Imagine if… Creates a scenario to introduce a hypothetical situation. “Imagine if we could reduce our energy consumption by half.”
- What if I told you…? A dramatic way to introduce surprising information. “What if I told you there’s a way to complete this project in half the time?”
Real-Life Dialogues
Team Member: I’ve finished reviewing last quarter’s reports.
Manager: Great. This brings me to my next point: our goals for the upcoming quarter. I’d like to address our targets for customer acquisition.
Team Member: I have some ideas about that.
Friend A: I’m so tired from all this traveling.
Friend B: Speaking of traveling, did you hear about the new direct flight to Tokyo?
Friend A: No, I haven’t! That reminds me – I need to renew my passport.
Quick Tips: Choosing Your Introduction
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Casual conversation with friends | By the way,… or That reminds me… | These are natural, effortless ways to shift topics in informal settings. |
| Business meetings or presentations | Let’s turn our attention to… or I’d like to address… | They provide clear, professional transitions that keep the discussion focused. |
| Academic or formal writing | With respect to… or Regarding the matter of… | These phrases are appropriately formal for serious contexts. |
| Engaging an audience | Have you ever wondered…? or Imagine if… | They spark curiosity and draw people into the topic emotionally. |
Practice Tip
Before your next meeting or social gathering, choose 2-3 topics you might want to discuss and practice introducing them using different phrases from this list of 17 phrases for introducing a topic.
Why This Matters
- Using appropriate introduction phrases helps you communicate more effectively and be better understood.
- It makes you sound more fluent and confident in both social and professional situations.
- Knowing these 17 phrases for introducing a topic gives you the tools to steer conversations and presentations in the direction you want.
A well-introduced topic is like an open door – it invites others to step into the conversation. With these phrases, you can open those doors with confidence and clarity. Happy learning! 😊
