conversation
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conversation
A conversation between two or more people, often with a focus on refined or witty exchange. The term is often used for a somewhat more formal or sophisticated dialogue than an everyday conversation.
Beim Abendessen entwickelte sich eine angeregte Konversation über politische Themen.
At dinner, a lively conversation about political topics developed.
The noun 'die Konversation' belongs to the verb 'konversieren' (to converse). This verb means to have a conversation and is likewise used in a rather elevated style.
Die Gäste konversierten angeregt bei einem Glas Wein.
The guests conversed animatedly over a glass of wine.
'Konversation' is often used for a more sophisticated or formal conversation. It sounds more refined than the everyday word 'Gespräch' (conversation/talk).
Beim diplomatischen Empfang waren nur höfliche Konversationen zu hören.
At the diplomatic reception, only polite conversations could be heard.
Common verbs used with 'Konversation' are 'eine Konversation führen' (to have a conversation), 'eine Konversation beginnen' (to start a conversation), or 'eine Konversation beenden' (to end a conversation).
Es ist nicht immer einfach, mit Fremden eine Konversation zu beginnen.
It is not always easy to start a conversation with strangers.
A typical fixed expression is 'eine Konversation am Laufen halten' (to keep a conversation going). This means making sure that a conversation does not break off or become boring.
Er ist sehr gut darin, eine Konversation am Laufen zu halten.
He is very good at keeping a conversation going.
conversation
Gespräch and Konversation both refer to a verbal exchange. Konversation usually sounds somewhat more elevated and is especially suitable for refined or social small talk, while Gespräch is common in neutral everyday language. Use Gespräch in general and Konversation when you want to convey a more stylish tone.
Bei dem Empfang entwickelte sich eine gepflegte Konversation über Kunst und Reisen.
At the reception, we had a refined conversation about art and travel.
Im Gespräch mit dem neuen Nachbarn tauschte ich praktische Informationen aus.
In a conversation with my new neighbor, I exchanged practical information.
