conversación
nounCEFR B2
What does “conversación” mean in English?
conversation — an informal to diplomatic exchange of speech between people; in plural, diplomatic talks
conversation — an informal to diplomatic exchange of speech between people; in plural, diplomatic talks (las conversaciones de paz, entablar conversación)
Example sentences
Las conversaciones de paz se reanudarán la próxima semana en un formato presencial.
The peace talks will resume next week in an in-person format.
Es hora de tener una conversación honesta sobre el futuro de las pensiones.
It is time to have an honest conversation about the future of pensions.
Entablar conversación con desconocidos es cada vez más difícil en entornos urbanos.
Striking up conversation with strangers is increasingly difficult in urban environments.
How to use it
La conversación means 'conversation' — an informal to semi-formal exchange of speech between people. At B2 it extends beyond the everyday meaning: las conversaciones de paz (peace talks), iniciar/entablar/mantener una conversación, la conversación pública (public discourse). The B2 register distinction is important: conversación is the spoken exchange; debate is the formal structured discussion; diálogo implies mutual openness to the other's position. Key collocations: una conversación pendiente (an overdue conversation), la conversación nacional sobre X.
Common mistake
Conversación (spoken exchange, informal to diplomatic) vs diálogo (dialogue — implies mutual recognition and willingness to listen) vs debate (debate — structured, adversarial). Las conversaciones (plural) in diplomatic contexts is usually translated as 'talks' or 'negotiations', not 'conversations'. Entablar conversación (no article) vs tener una conversación (with article) — both correct but entablar is more idiomatic for initiating.