C1 verb #8,500 le plus courant 4 min de lecture

broach

To broach means to start talking about something important or difficult.

Imagine you have a secret, and you need to tell someone. When you broach the subject, you begin to talk about it carefully.

Maybe you need to ask your friend for help. You might broach the topic of needing help.

It's like opening a conversation about something serious for the very first time.

To broach a topic means to bring it up for discussion, especially if it's something sensitive or difficult. Imagine you have something important but a bit uncomfortable to talk about with someone, like asking your friend to pay back money they owe you. You would carefully choose the right moment to broach the subject.

It's about introducing a new or challenging idea into a conversation for the first time. You might need to broach the idea of moving to a new city with your family, for example. The word suggests you're doing it thoughtfully, knowing it might not be an easy conversation.

When you broach a subject, you are carefully bringing up a topic that might be sensitive, difficult, or even controversial for the first time.

It suggests a deliberate and often cautious approach, as the subject could potentially cause discomfort or disagreement.

This action implies choosing the right moment and words to introduce a matter that requires delicate handling.

Therefore, to broach signifies initiating a discussion on a weighty issue with an awareness of its potential impact.

broach en 30 secondes

  • Introduce a difficult subject.
  • Bring up a sensitive topic.
  • Start a discussion on something delicate.

§ How to use it in a sentence — grammar, prepositions

The verb "broach" is transitive, meaning it always takes a direct object. You broach *something*, typically a topic or subject. It’s rarely used informally and often appears in more formal or professional contexts.

Grammar
  • **Subject + broach + direct object (topic/subject)**: This is the most common and straightforward construction.
  • **Past tense**: "broached"
  • **Present participle**: "broaching"

The direct object of "broach" is almost always an abstract concept or a discussion point, not a physical object. Common direct objects include: "a subject," "a topic," "the issue," "the question," "the idea," "the possibility," "the matter."

She decided to finally broach the subject of her unpaid wages with her boss.

The committee members were hesitant to broach the controversial topic during the initial meeting.

He carefully broached the idea of working remotely to his conservative manager.

Prepositions
The verb "broach" itself does not typically take a preposition directly after it when referring to the subject being introduced. However, prepositions might be used in the surrounding sentence structure to provide additional context, such as who the subject is being broached *with* or *to*.
  • **Broach [topic] with [person/group]**: This construction indicates who the sensitive topic is being introduced to.

She decided to broach the difficult conversation *with* her parents.

  • **Broach [topic] to [person/group]**: Similar to "with," this specifies the audience for the newly introduced subject.

He was unsure how to broach the delicate matter *to* the board of directors.

  • **Broach [topic] at [event/meeting]**: This specifies the setting where the topic is introduced.

They chose to broach the controversial proposal *at* the annual shareholder meeting.

§ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • **Don't confuse "broach" with "breach."** "Breach" means to break a rule, agreement, or barrier. "Broach" means to introduce a topic. They are distinct in meaning and usage.

Incorrect: He decided to breach the subject of the merger. (This implies breaking the subject, which doesn't make sense.)

Correct: He decided to broach the subject of the merger.

  • **Avoid using "broach" with informal or trivial topics.** "Broach" implies sensitivity, difficulty, or importance. You wouldn't typically "broach" the topic of what to have for dinner.

Incorrect: I will broach the topic of what movie we should watch tonight.

Correct: I will broach the topic of our holiday plans with my family.

§ Nuances and Connotations

The use of "broach" often suggests a deliberate and careful approach to introducing a topic. It implies that the speaker has considered the potential reactions or difficulties associated with the subject and is choosing the right moment or manner to bring it up. This makes it a powerful word for conveying tact and consideration in communication.

Knowing the sensitivity of the situation, the diplomat carefully broached the peace proposal.

This sentence highlights the diplomat's cautious approach due to the sensitive nature of the peace proposal. The word "carefully" further emphasizes the deliberate action implied by "broach."

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The word itself is short, but understanding its nuanced meaning and application in various contexts can be moderately challenging for C1 learners. The difficulty comes from its specific usage rather than its length or pronunciation.

Écriture 4/5

Using 'broach' correctly in writing requires precision. Learners need to understand when it's appropriate to use this formal verb over simpler alternatives like 'bring up' or 'mention,' especially when conveying the idea of introducing a delicate topic. Misuse can make writing sound awkward or imprecise.

Expression orale 4/5

Similar to writing, using 'broach' naturally and correctly in spoken English at a C1 level demands an understanding of its register and connotations. It's not a word used in everyday, casual conversation, and incorporating it smoothly into more formal discussions can be challenging.

Écoute 2/5

While 'broach' might not be a high-frequency word, its pronunciation is straightforward, and the context in which it's used often provides sufficient clues for comprehension. The main challenge would be distinguishing it from similar-sounding words if context is weak.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

discuss mention introduce topic sensitive delicate approach subject

Apprends ensuite

allude convey imply intimate address (a topic) raise (an issue)

Avancé

canvass ventilate taboo euphemism diplomacy tact

Exemples par niveau

1

I need to broach the subject of my salary with my boss soon.

I need to bring up the topic of my salary with my boss soon.

The verb 'broach' is followed by the direct object 'the subject of my salary'.

2

It can be difficult to broach sensitive topics with family members.

It can be hard to bring up sensitive topics with family members.

Here, 'broach' is used with the direct object 'sensitive topics'.

3

She wasn't sure how to broach the news of her resignation.

She wasn't sure how to introduce the news of her resignation.

The phrase 'broach the news' indicates introducing information.

4

He finally decided to broach the idea of moving to a new city.

He finally decided to bring up the idea of moving to a new city.

The verb 'broach' is followed by the noun phrase 'the idea of moving'.

5

We need to broach this issue carefully to avoid any conflict.

We need to introduce this issue carefully to avoid any conflict.

The adverb 'carefully' modifies 'broach', showing the manner of introduction.

6

The politician tried to broach the topic of environmental reform.

The politician tried to introduce the topic of environmental reform.

Used with 'the topic of environmental reform' as its direct object.

7

It's often best to broach serious matters in a private setting.

It's often best to introduce serious matters in a private setting.

The noun phrase 'serious matters' follows 'broach'.

8

I'm not sure when is the right time to broach the subject of our future plans.

I'm not sure when is the right time to bring up the subject of our future plans.

'Broach' is followed by 'the subject of our future plans' as a direct object.

1

She was hesitant to broach the topic of her unpaid bills with her parents, fearing their reaction.

She was hesitant to bring up the topic of her unpaid bills with her parents, fearing their reaction.

The verb 'broach' is followed by a direct object, which is the sensitive subject.

2

The CEO decided it was time to broach the possibility of layoffs with the senior management team.

The CEO decided it was time to introduce the possibility of layoffs for discussion with the senior management team.

'Broach' is used here to indicate the initial introduction of a difficult subject.

3

He gently broached the subject of their differing political views, hoping to foster an open discussion.

He gently brought up the subject of their differing political views, hoping to foster an open discussion.

The adverb 'gently' emphasizes the careful approach when broaching a sensitive topic.

4

It's always challenging to broach the subject of salary increases with your employer.

It's always challenging to bring up the subject of salary increases with your employer.

The infinitive 'to broach' is used as the subject of the sentence here.

5

After a long silence, she finally broached the delicate issue of their broken engagement.

After a long silence, she finally introduced the delicate issue of their broken engagement for discussion.

The adjective 'delicate' highlights the sensitive nature of the issue being broached.

6

The therapist suggested that the couple broach their communication problems during their next session.

The therapist suggested that the couple discuss their communication problems for the first time during their next session.

The verb 'broach' is used in the subjunctive mood after 'suggested that'.

7

He knew he had to broach the uncomfortable truth about his past, despite his fear of judgment.

He knew he had to bring up the uncomfortable truth about his past, despite his fear of judgment.

The adjective 'uncomfortable' further emphasizes the challenging aspect of the topic.

8

The journalist carefully broached the controversial topic during the live interview, ensuring a balanced approach.

The journalist carefully introduced the controversial topic for discussion during the live interview, ensuring a balanced approach.

The adverb 'carefully' and the participle 'ensuring' provide context for the cautious way the topic was broached.

1

The diplomat knew she had to broach the topic of sanctions carefully to avoid escalating tensions further.

Diplomat muss Thema Sanktionen vorsichtig ansprechen, um Spannungen nicht zu verschärfen.

Verb 'broach' followed by a direct object, 'the topic of sanctions'.

2

He struggled for weeks trying to find the right moment to broach the delicate subject of his impending resignation with his boss.

Er rang wochenlang, den richtigen Moment zu finden, um das heikle Thema seines bevorstehenden Rücktritts seinem Chef gegenüber anzuschneiden.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'to find the right moment'.

3

It took considerable courage for her to broach the idea of a radical restructuring plan during the conservative board meeting.

Es erforderte erheblichen Mut, die Idee eines radikalen Umstrukturierungsplans während der konservativen Vorstandssitzung anzusprechen.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'for her to'.

4

Despite his apprehension, he decided it was time to broach the issue of their dwindling finances with his spendthrift partner.

Trotz seiner Befürchtung beschloss er, dass es Zeit war, das Thema ihrer schwindenden Finanzen mit seinem verschwenderischen Partner anzusprechen.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'it was time to'.

5

The therapist advised the couple to broach their unspoken resentments in a safe and structured environment.

Der Therapeut riet dem Paar, ihre unausgesprochenen Ressentiments in einer sicheren und strukturierten Umgebung anzusprechen.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'advised the couple to'.

6

Knowing the potential for conflict, the mediator suggested several strategies to broach the sensitive points of contention.

In Anbetracht des Konfliktpotenzials schlug der Mediator mehrere Strategien vor, um die heiklen Streitpunkte anzusprechen.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'to suggest strategies'.

7

She waited until after dinner to broach the possibility of moving abroad, hoping the relaxed atmosphere would soften the impact.

Sie wartete bis nach dem Abendessen, um die Möglichkeit eines Umzugs ins Ausland anzusprechen, in der Hoffnung, dass die entspannte Atmosphäre die Wirkung mildern würde.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'to wait until'.

8

The CEO felt it was imperative to broach the topic of potential layoffs with transparency and empathy, despite its difficulty.

Der CEO hielt es für unerlässlich, das Thema potenzieller Entlassungen trotz seiner Schwierigkeit mit Transparenz und Empathie anzusprechen.

Infinitive 'to broach' used after 'it was imperative to'.

Synonymes

Antonymes

Modèles grammaticaux

broach + noun phrase (subject, topic, idea, issue, question, matter) broach + noun phrase + with + pronoun/noun (broach the topic with someone) adverb + broach + noun phrase (gingerly broach the subject) broach + gerund (broaching the subject can be difficult) modal verb + broach (should broach, need to broach, afraid to broach) to be + hesitant/reluctant + to broach

Structures de phrases

C1

to broach a subject/topic

He was hesitant to broach the subject of his divorce with his new colleagues.

C1

to broach an idea/issue

The committee decided it was time to broach the idea of restructuring the department.

C1

broach the question of something

She carefully broached the question of a pay rise with her manager.

C1

broach a delicate/sensitive matter

It's difficult to broach such a delicate matter without causing offense.

C1

broach the topic with someone

I need to broach the topic with my parents before making a final decision.

C1

to broach the subject gingerly/cautiously

He broached the subject gingerly, trying not to upset her.

C1

when to broach something

She wasn't sure when to broach the news of her resignation.

C1

not to broach something

It's often best not to broach certain subjects at family gatherings.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Bringing up the topic of a pay raise with your boss.

  • I'd like to broach the subject of my compensation.
  • When would be a good time to broach the topic of my salary?
  • I'm a little nervous to broach this, but I wanted to discuss my recent performance and a potential raise.

Discussing a difficult personal issue with a friend or family member.

  • I need to broach a sensitive issue with you.
  • It's hard for me to broach this, but I've been feeling down lately.
  • How do you think I should broach the topic of their recent behavior?

Introducing a controversial idea or proposal in a meeting.

  • I'd like to broach a new idea for our marketing strategy.
  • We need to broach the possibility of changing our approach.
  • It might be a bit contentious, but I want to broach the subject of restructuring the team.

A doctor discussing a serious diagnosis with a patient.

  • I need to broach a difficult subject regarding your test results.
  • It's never easy to broach news like this, but we need to discuss your treatment options.
  • We have some serious findings to broach with you.

A parent discussing sex education or other sensitive topics with their child.

  • It's time to broach the topic of healthy relationships.
  • I want to broach some important subjects with you about growing up.
  • How can I broach the subject of internet safety with my teenager?

Amorces de conversation

"Have you ever had to broach a difficult topic with someone, and how did it go?"

"What are some strategies you use when you need to broach a sensitive subject?"

"In what situations do you think it's particularly important to broach a topic carefully?"

"Can you think of a time when someone broached a subject with you in a good way, or a bad way?"

"What's the most challenging subject you've ever had to broach?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you had to broach a sensitive topic with someone. What was the topic, who was it with, and how did you approach it? What was the outcome?

Reflect on a situation where you wish you had broached a topic earlier or differently. What would you do differently if you had the chance?

Write about a time someone broached a difficult subject with you. How did it make you feel, and how did you respond?

Imagine you need to broach a challenging topic with a friend or colleague. Outline your strategy for doing so, including what you would say and how you would say it.

Consider the importance of timing when broaching a sensitive subject. Provide an example of how good or bad timing could impact the conversation.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

While both mean to introduce a topic, 'broach' often suggests the topic is sensitive or difficult, requiring careful handling. 'Bring up' is more general and can apply to any topic.

Not typically. 'Broach' is usually reserved for subjects that might cause discomfort, disagreement, or are otherwise significant and require a delicate approach. For simple topics, 'mention' or 'bring up' are more appropriate.

No, it just means the topic was introduced. The outcome of the discussion isn't implied. Someone might broach a topic, and the conversation could still be difficult or unresolved.

Yes, it tends to be more formal than 'bring up' or 'mention'. You'll often hear it in more serious or professional contexts.

Historically, 'broach' could refer to piercing or tapping a cask to draw liquid. However, in modern English, when referring to opening a container, you'd typically use 'open' or 'tap'. The usage for introducing a topic is far more common now.

You might broach subjects like a salary increase, a difficult personal issue with a friend, a sensitive political topic, or a disagreement with a colleague.

Yes, it often implies a deliberate and considered act of bringing up a subject, rather than an off-the-cuff remark.

Not really. 'Broach' is used quite directly. You might hear 'to broach the subject' or 'to broach the topic'.

A C1 level indicates an advanced learner who can understand and use a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. 'Broach' fits this level because it's a more nuanced verb with a specific, somewhat formal connotation for introducing sensitive topics.

Absolutely! You can broach a topic in a letter, email, or report just as you would in a spoken conversation. The same principles of sensitivity and careful introduction apply.

Teste-toi 30 questions

listening A2

The speaker needs to talk about something difficult.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : I need to broach a sensitive topic with my friend.
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening A2

She wanted to start discussing moving.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : She tried to broach the subject of moving to a new city.
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening A2

It's difficult to start talking about private issues.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It's hard to broach personal problems with new people.
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

I will try to broach the idea carefully.

Focus: broach

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

How do you broach a difficult subject?

Focus: difficult subject

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

He broached the topic of money very gently.

Focus: gently

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing A2

Imagine you need to tell a friend something important but a bit difficult. Write a short message to them starting the conversation. Use the word 'broach'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Hi [Friend's Name], I need to broach an important topic with you when you have a moment to chat. Let me know when is good.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing A2

You want to suggest a new idea for a class project to your teacher. Write one or two sentences explaining that you have something to discuss. Use 'broach'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Excuse me, Mr./Ms. [Teacher's Name]. I'd like to broach an idea for our class project if you have a moment.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing A2

Write a short sentence about someone starting a conversation about a problem. Use the word 'broach'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

He had to broach the problem with his parents.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
reading A2

What did Sarah want to do with her brother's bike?

Read this passage:

Sarah wanted to ask her brother about borrowing his bike for a week. She knew he loved his bike very much, so she thought about how to broach the subject carefully. She decided to offer to clean his bike first.

What did Sarah want to do with her brother's bike?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Borrow it for a week.

The passage states, 'Sarah wanted to ask her brother about borrowing his bike for a week.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Borrow it for a week.

The passage states, 'Sarah wanted to ask her brother about borrowing his bike for a week.'

reading A2

What subject did Mark need to discuss with his family?

Read this passage:

Mark knew it was time to broach the topic of moving to a new city with his family. He knew it would be a big change, so he planned to talk to them gently. He prepared a list of good things about the new city.

What subject did Mark need to discuss with his family?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Moving to a new city.

The passage says, 'Mark knew it was time to broach the topic of moving to a new city with his family.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Moving to a new city.

The passage says, 'Mark knew it was time to broach the topic of moving to a new city with his family.'

reading A2

Why did the team leader need to be careful when talking about low sales?

Read this passage:

The team leader needed to broach the sensitive issue of low sales with his team. He knew it was difficult news, so he decided to start the meeting by explaining the company's goals and then talk about the sales figures.

Why did the team leader need to be careful when talking about low sales?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Because it was a sensitive issue.

The passage states, 'He knew it was difficult news,' which means it was a sensitive issue.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Because it was a sensitive issue.

The passage states, 'He knew it was difficult news,' which means it was a sensitive issue.

multiple choice B1

Which word is a synonym for 'broach' in the context of introducing a topic?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : mention

To broach a subject means to introduce or mention it, especially if it's sensitive.

multiple choice B1

When you 'broach' a subject, what are you likely doing?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Starting to talk about something important

Broaching a subject means to introduce it for discussion, often for the first time.

multiple choice B1

It was difficult to ____ the subject of her leaving the company.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

The context suggests introducing a difficult topic, which is the meaning of 'broach'.

true false B1

If you broach a topic, you are usually trying to avoid talking about it.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Faux

To broach a topic means to bring it up for discussion, not to avoid it.

true false B1

You might broach a sensitive topic with a friend carefully.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Vrai

Broaching a subject often implies doing so with caution, especially if it's sensitive.

true false B1

To 'broach' a subject means to discuss it at length.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Faux

Broaching a subject means to introduce it for the first time, not necessarily to discuss it extensively.

writing C1

Imagine you need to discuss a sensitive issue with a colleague, such as a disagreement over project strategy. Write a short paragraph outlining how you would 'broach' this subject, considering the need for tact and timing. What specific phrases or approaches would you use?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Broaching the topic of our differing project strategies requires careful consideration. I would choose a private, calm setting, perhaps at the end of the day, to ensure an uninterrupted and non-confrontational conversation. I'd start by acknowledging our shared goals and then gently express my perspective using 'I' statements, such as, 'I've been thinking about the project's direction, and I have some thoughts I'd like to share regarding how we might achieve our objectives most effectively.' This aims to open a dialogue rather than present a challenge.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing C1

You are a manager who needs to inform your team about an unpopular but necessary change in company policy. Write a brief email to your team outlining how you plan to 'broach' this news in an upcoming meeting. Focus on creating an atmosphere of understanding and minimizing negative reactions.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Subject: Upcoming Team Meeting - Important Discussion Hi Team, I'm writing to let you know that our next team meeting will include a discussion about a significant upcoming change in company policy. I understand that news like this can sometimes be met with concern, and I want to ensure we approach this with complete transparency and open dialogue. My intention is to broach the topic by first explaining the rationale behind the change, followed by a dedicated Q&A session where all your questions and concerns can be addressed. Your input is valued, and I am committed to making this transition as smooth as possible.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing C1

Consider a situation where you need to 'broach' a personal financial difficulty with a close family member to ask for support. Write a short internal monologue expressing your thoughts and feelings about how to approach this conversation, highlighting the emotional challenges involved.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Oh, how do I even begin to broach this? It feels incredibly vulnerable to admit I'm struggling financially, especially to them. I keep replaying different scenarios in my head, trying to find the perfect words that convey the seriousness without sounding desperate or like a burden. The fear of disappointment or judgment is paralyzing. But I know I need to be honest, and they are family. I'll have to gather my courage and just start, perhaps by saying something like, 'There's something important I need to talk to you about, and it's a bit difficult for me to say.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
reading C1

What does Sarah's action of 'broaching the delicate subject' imply about the nature of her request?

Read this passage:

After weeks of hesitation, Sarah finally decided it was time to broach the delicate subject of her promotion with her manager. She knew he was often preoccupied with tight deadlines, so she carefully chose a moment when he seemed relaxed and approachable. She started by complimenting his recent success, subtly paving the way for her request. Her cautious approach proved effective, as he listened attentively and agreed to discuss it further.

What does Sarah's action of 'broaching the delicate subject' imply about the nature of her request?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It required careful handling due to its sensitive nature.

The passage states 'delicate subject' and describes Sarah's 'hesitation' and 'cautious approach,' indicating that the topic was sensitive and needed careful introduction.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It required careful handling due to its sensitive nature.

The passage states 'delicate subject' and describes Sarah's 'hesitation' and 'cautious approach,' indicating that the topic was sensitive and needed careful introduction.

reading C1

What strategy did the diplomat use to 'broach' the contentious issue?

Read this passage:

The diplomat knew he had to broach the contentious issue of trade tariffs at the summit, despite the palpable tension in the room. He understood that a direct confrontation would be counterproductive. Instead, he framed his opening remarks by emphasizing mutual economic benefits, hoping to create a more receptive atmosphere before delving into the specifics of the dispute.

What strategy did the diplomat use to 'broach' the contentious issue?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He softened the introduction by highlighting common ground first.

The diplomat 'framed his opening remarks by emphasizing mutual economic benefits,' which is a way to soften the introduction and create a more receptive atmosphere before addressing the contentious issue.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He softened the introduction by highlighting common ground first.

The diplomat 'framed his opening remarks by emphasizing mutual economic benefits,' which is a way to soften the introduction and create a more receptive atmosphere before addressing the contentious issue.

reading C1

What was the main reason for John's reluctance to 'broach the idea'?

Read this passage:

For months, John had been reluctant to broach the idea of moving abroad with his wife, fearing her strong attachment to their current home and family. He spent countless evenings rehearsing how he would present the concept, focusing on the potential benefits for their children and his career. When he finally did, her initial surprise gave way to thoughtful consideration, a testament to his careful preparation.

What was the main reason for John's reluctance to 'broach the idea'?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He anticipated a strong emotional reaction from his wife.

The passage states John feared 'her strong attachment to their current home and family,' indicating his reluctance stemmed from anticipating an emotional reaction to the idea of moving.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He anticipated a strong emotional reaction from his wife.

The passage states John feared 'her strong attachment to their current home and family,' indicating his reluctance stemmed from anticipating an emotional reaction to the idea of moving.

fill blank C2

The CEO knew he would have to eventually ___ the delicate subject of potential layoffs during the upcoming board meeting, despite the anticipated backlash.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

To 'broach' a subject means to introduce it, especially if it's sensitive or difficult, which fits the context of discussing layoffs.

fill blank C2

After weeks of hesitation, she decided it was time to ___ the topic of their differing political views with her new partner, hoping to navigate the conversation with sensitivity.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

The sentence describes introducing a sensitive topic, 'differing political views,' aligning with the definition of 'broach.'

fill blank C2

The committee carefully considered how to ___ the contentious issue of funding cuts for the arts program, knowing it would provoke strong opinions.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

Here, 'broach' is used to indicate the cautious introduction of a 'contentious issue,' which is appropriate for the word's meaning.

fill blank C2

It took considerable courage for him to ___ the subject of his financial struggles with his affluent family, fearing judgment.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

The sentence implies the speaker is introducing a 'sensitive' topic ('financial struggles') for the first time, which is the core meaning of 'broach.'

fill blank C2

The therapist advised her client to gently ___ the issue of past trauma with her family, when she felt ready and supported.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

'Broach' is used here to describe the careful and sensitive introduction of a 'difficult' subject ('past trauma').

fill blank C2

During the delicate negotiations, the diplomat skillfully managed to ___ the possibility of a ceasefire, despite the deep-seated mistrust between the warring factions.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : broach

This sentence illustrates 'broach' in the context of introducing an 'important' and potentially 'difficult' topic ('ceasefire') in a cautious manner.

/ 30 correct

Perfect score!

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address

A2

S'adresser directement à quelqu'un ou s'occuper d'un problème. On l'utilise aussi pour parler d'un discours ou pour écrire une adresse sur un courrier.

addressee

B2

The person or organization to whom a letter, package, or message is addressed. It refers to the intended recipient of a piece of communication.

adlocment

C1

Describes a style of communication or behavior that is formal, directed, and oratorical in nature, specifically pertaining to a public address or a declamatory speech. It is used to characterize language that is intentionally designed to be heard by an audience for the purpose of instruction or inspiration.

adloctude

C1

Un style de communication formel et direct. Cela implique d'être accessible tout en conservant une présence autoritaire et professionnelle.

admonish

C1

To firmly warn or reprimand someone for their behavior, or to advise someone earnestly to do or avoid something. It often implies a sense of moral guidance or authoritative concern rather than just anger.

adpassant

C1

To mention or address a secondary topic briefly and incidentally while focused on a primary task or discussion. It describes an action that occurs seamlessly 'in passing' without disrupting the main narrative or workflow.

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