Top 44 Slang For Bring Up – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to conversations, knowing the right slang can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to spice up your vocabulary or simply keep up with the latest trends, understanding the slang for “bring up” is key. Our team has put together a list of the most popular phrases and terms used to bring up topics in style. Get ready to level up your communication game and impress your friends with these fresh expressions!

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1. Mention

To bring up or make reference to something or someone in conversation or communication. “Mention” is a common term used when discussing or acknowledging a specific topic or person.

For example, in a discussion about favorite books, someone might say, “I have to mention ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ as one of my all-time favorites.”
When talking about a recent event, a person might ask, “Did anyone mention the new restaurant that just opened?”
In a meeting, someone might say, “I just wanted to mention that we have a new employee starting next week.”

2. Raise

To introduce or start a discussion or topic. “Raise” is often used when initiating a conversation or suggesting a point of discussion.

For instance, in a team meeting, someone might say, “I’d like to raise an issue that I think needs to be addressed.”
In a group conversation about travel plans, a person might suggest, “Why don’t we raise the idea of going to Europe for our next vacation?”
During a debate, someone might raise a controversial topic to provoke discussion and differing viewpoints.

3. Broach

To introduce or bring up a sensitive or difficult topic in a conversation. “Broach” is commonly used when discussing delicate subjects that may require careful handling or consideration.

For example, when discussing a sensitive family matter, someone might say, “I think it’s time we broach the subject of our parents’ estate planning.”
In a work setting, a manager might broach the topic of an employee’s performance during a one-on-one meeting.
When addressing a potential conflict, someone might broach the issue by saying, “I want to broach the subject of our recent disagreement and find a resolution.”

4. Introduce

To present or bring up something new or unfamiliar in a conversation or setting. “Introduce” is often used when presenting a new idea, concept, or person.

For instance, in a business meeting, someone might say, “I’d like to introduce a new marketing strategy that I think could significantly increase sales.”
When meeting new people, one might introduce themselves by saying, “Hi, my name is John. Nice to meet you.”
In a classroom, a teacher might introduce a new topic by saying, “Today, we will be introducing the concept of algebra.”

5. Bring to light

To reveal or make known something that was previously unknown or hidden. “Bring to light” is often used when uncovering or exposing information or facts.

For example, in a news article, a journalist might bring to light a scandal or corruption within a government.
When discussing a long-held secret, someone might say, “I think it’s time to bring this to light and tell the truth.”
In a court case, a lawyer may bring to light crucial evidence that supports their client’s innocence.

6. Touch on

To touch on something means to briefly mention or bring up a topic without going into great detail.

For example, during a meeting, a participant might say, “Before we move on, I just want to touch on the budget issue.”
In a conversation about a book, someone might say, “The author only touched on the topic of mental health briefly.”
A presenter might mention, “We don’t have time to go into it now, but I’ll touch on this point in a future session.”

7. Refer to

To refer to something means to mention or allude to it in conversation or writing.

For instance, a teacher might say, “Please refer to page 10 of your textbook for more information.”
In a discussion about a movie, someone might say, “The title of the film refers to a recurring motif throughout.”
A writer might note, “In this article, I will refer to several studies that support my argument.”

8. Allude to

To allude to something means to hint at or indirectly reference it without explicitly stating it.

For example, in a speech, a politician might allude to a controversial topic without directly addressing it.
In a novel, an author might allude to a famous historical event to create a sense of context.
A comedian might allude to a popular meme to engage with the audience.

9. Talk about

To talk about something means to discuss or have a conversation about it.

For instance, during a group discussion, a participant might say, “Let’s talk about the impact of social media on our daily lives.”
In a casual conversation, someone might ask, “What do you want to talk about?”
A radio host might say, “In today’s show, we will talk about the latest news and trends.”

10. Discuss

To discuss something means to talk about it in detail, usually with the intention of exchanging ideas or reaching a conclusion.

For example, during a meeting, a team might discuss potential solutions to a problem.
In an academic setting, students might discuss a specific theory or concept.
A book club might meet to discuss the themes and characters of a novel.

11. Address

To address something means to bring it up or mention it in a conversation or discussion.

For example, “We need to address the issue of late payments at the next meeting.”
In a group setting, someone might say, “I’d like to address a concern I have about our current project.”
A manager might address their team by saying, “I want to address some recent changes in company policy.”

12. Present

To present something means to introduce or bring it up for discussion or consideration.

For instance, “I’d like to present a new idea for our marketing strategy.”
In a meeting, someone might say, “I’d like to present the findings from our latest research.”
A student might present their project to the class by saying, “Today, I will be presenting my research on climate change.”

13. Propose

To propose something means to suggest or introduce it as a possible course of action or idea.

For example, “I propose that we implement a new recycling program in our office.”
In a group discussion, someone might propose a solution by saying, “I propose we allocate more resources to customer service.”
A person might propose a new plan by saying, “I propose a change in our current vacation policy.”

14. Speak of

To speak of something means to mention or bring it up in conversation or discussion.

For instance, “Speaking of vacations, has anyone made plans for the summer?”
In a discussion about current events, someone might say, “Speaking of politics, have you heard about the latest scandal?”
A person might speak of their concerns by saying, “I wanted to speak of my reservations about the new project.”

15. Point out

To point out something means to bring attention to it or highlight it in a conversation or discussion.

For example, “I just wanted to point out that we have a deadline approaching.”
In a meeting, someone might point out an error by saying, “I’d like to point out a mistake in the report.”
A person might point out a potential problem by saying, “I wanted to point out a potential issue with our current plan.”

16. Remind

To prompt someone to remember something or to bring something to their attention. The term “remind” implies that the person already has knowledge of the thing being brought up.

For instance, you might say, “Can you remind me to pick up milk on the way home?”
In a work meeting, someone might remind their colleagues, “Don’t forget about the deadline for the project.”
A teacher might remind their students, “Remember to study for the upcoming test.”

17. Note

To briefly bring up a topic or point in conversation. “Note” implies that the information is important or worth acknowledging, but not necessarily discussing in depth.

For example, during a presentation, someone might say, “I just want to note that this data is preliminary.”
In a discussion about a book, a reader might note, “The author uses symbolism throughout the novel.”
A friend might note, “I noticed you’ve been working really hard lately.”

18. Touch upon

To briefly bring up or mention a topic without going into great detail. “Touch upon” suggests a light or superficial discussion.

For instance, in a lecture, a professor might touch upon a related topic, saying, “We won’t go into it in depth, but I just want to touch upon the concept of cultural relativism.”
During a conversation about a trip, someone might touch upon an interesting sight they saw, saying, “Oh, and I should also touch upon the breathtaking view from the top of the mountain.”
In a discussion about a controversial issue, someone might touch upon an opposing viewpoint, saying, “I just want to touch upon the argument that some people have against this policy.”

19. Refer

To mention or make a brief reference to something. “Refer” implies that the person is pointing to or indicating something without going into detail or providing extensive information.

For example, in a research paper, a writer might refer to a previous study, saying, “Smith et al. (2010) refer to this phenomenon as ‘the bystander effect’.”
During a conversation about a movie, someone might refer to a famous quote, saying, “You know, the one where they say ‘I’ll be back’.”
In a discussion about a historical event, someone might refer to a specific document, saying, “The Constitution refers to the right to bear arms.”

20. Bring to attention

To make someone aware of something or to direct their focus towards a particular matter. “Bring to attention” suggests that the person may not have previously been aware of the thing being brought up.

For instance, in a meeting, a manager might bring a problem to attention, saying, “I just wanted to bring to everyone’s attention that we’ve been experiencing a decrease in sales.”
During a presentation, a speaker might bring a new idea to attention, saying, “I’d like to bring this innovative approach to your attention.”
In a discussion about a safety concern, someone might bring an issue to attention, saying, “I want to bring to your attention the potential hazards of this equipment.”

21. Highlight

To draw attention to or give special importance to something. When you highlight something, you make it stand out or become more noticeable.

For example, in a presentation, a speaker might say, “Let me highlight the main points of this report.”
In a conversation about a book, someone might say, “The author highlights the theme of love throughout the novel.”
A person might highlight a particular quote from an article and share it on social media.

22. Put forward

To suggest or offer an idea, plan, or solution for consideration. When you put forward something, you present it as a possibility or option.

For instance, in a meeting, a team member might say, “I’d like to put forward a new strategy for increasing sales.”
In a debate, someone might put forward an argument and support it with evidence.
A person might put forward a suggestion for a group activity during a brainstorming session.

23. Bring into

To present or make something or someone known to others for the first time. When you bring something or someone into a conversation or situation, you introduce them.

For example, at a social event, a host might say, “Let me bring into the conversation our special guest.”
In a business meeting, someone might bring into the discussion a new product idea.
A person might bring into a debate a different perspective on the issue being discussed.

24. Cite

To refer to or quote as evidence or support for a statement or argument. When you cite something, you bring it up or mention it in order to provide additional information or support.

For instance, in an academic paper, a writer might say, “I will now cite several studies that support my hypothesis.”
In a conversation about a book, someone might cite a specific passage to support their interpretation.
A person might cite a statistic to back up their claim in a debate or discussion.

25. Remind of

To cause someone to remember or think about something. When you remind someone of something, you bring up a memory or association.

For example, a song might remind someone of a specific time or place in their life.
A smell might remind someone of a childhood memory.
A person might remind someone of a shared experience or inside joke.

26. Hint at

When you “hint at” something, you are subtly suggesting or indicating a particular idea or topic without explicitly stating it.

For example, “She hinted at her dissatisfaction with her job by mentioning how much she enjoyed her previous job.”
In a conversation about a surprise party, someone might say, “I don’t want to give away too much, but I can hint at a few details.”
A person might say, “He hinted at his interest in going on a vacation by showing me travel brochures.”

27. Lay out

To “lay out” something means to present or explain it in a clear and organized manner, often by providing all the necessary details.

For instance, in a business meeting, someone might say, “Let me lay out the plan for the upcoming project.”
In a cooking tutorial, the chef might say, “Now, let me lay out the ingredients and steps for this recipe.”
A teacher might say, “I’ll lay out the assignment guidelines for you so you know what’s expected.”

28. Show

When you “show” something, you express or reveal it through your actions, words, or behavior.

For example, “He showed his support for the cause by attending the protest.”
In a talent show, a performer might say, “I want to show my dancing skills to the audience.”
A person might say, “Actions speak louder than words, so I’ll show you how much I care.”

29. Raise the subject of

To “raise the subject of” something means to initiate or introduce a particular topic into a conversation.

For instance, in a team meeting, someone might say, “I’d like to raise the subject of the upcoming deadline.”
In a family discussion, a member might say, “I think it’s time to raise the subject of our financial situation.”
A person might say, “I wanted to raise the subject of our future plans during our date tonight.”

30. Suggest

When you “suggest” something, you propose or put forward an idea or possibility for consideration.

For example, “She suggested going out for dinner instead of cooking at home.”
In a brainstorming session, someone might say, “I suggest we explore new marketing strategies.”
A person might say, “I suggest we have a meeting to discuss the project before making any decisions.”

31. Talk over

This phrase means to have a conversation or discussion about a particular topic or issue. It implies a more casual or informal approach to bringing up a subject.

For example, “Let’s talk over our plans for the weekend.”
In a group setting, someone might say, “We need to talk over the project before making a decision.”
When discussing a problem, a person might suggest, “We should talk it over and come up with a solution together.”

32. Open up

To “open up” means to start discussing or revealing something, often of a personal nature. It implies a willingness to be honest and vulnerable in a conversation.

For instance, “He finally opened up about his feelings.”
In a therapy session, a person might be encouraged to “open up” and talk about their experiences.
When trying to deepen a connection, someone might say, “I want us to be able to open up to each other.”

33. Bring into the conversation

This phrase means to introduce a topic or idea into a conversation. It implies intentionally directing the discussion towards a specific subject or issue.

For example, “I wanted to bring into the conversation the impact of climate change.”
During a meeting, someone might say, “I think we should bring into the conversation the concerns raised by our customers.”
When discussing a controversial topic, a person might suggest, “Let’s bring into the conversation different perspectives to gain a better understanding.”

34. Mention in passing

To “mention in passing” means to briefly bring up or refer to something while talking about another topic. It implies a casual or incidental mention of the subject.

For instance, “She mentioned in passing that she was planning a trip.”
During a conversation, someone might say, “I just wanted to mention in passing that I saw your favorite band live.”
When discussing a book, a person might mention in passing an interesting quote or scene.

35. Raise the subject

This phrase means to initiate a discussion or introduce a topic into a conversation. It implies intentionally directing the conversation towards a particular subject.

For example, “He raised the subject of their upcoming vacation.”
During a team meeting, someone might say, “I think we should raise the subject of improving our communication.”
When discussing a sensitive issue, a person might suggest, “We need to raise the subject carefully to avoid causing any discomfort.”

36. Speak about

This term is used to indicate talking about a particular topic or subject.

For example, “Let’s speak about our plans for the weekend.”
In a meeting, someone might say, “I’d like to speak about the budget for next quarter.”
A friend might ask, “Can we speak about what happened last night?”

37. Talk of

This phrase refers to something that is being widely discussed or talked about.

For instance, “The scandal is the talk of the town.”
In a gossip magazine, a headline might read, “The celebrity’s new romance is the talk of Hollywood.”
A coworker might say, “The upcoming project is the talk of the office.”

38. Put on the table

This phrase means to introduce or bring up a topic or issue for discussion.

For example, “Let’s put the new proposal on the table.”
During a negotiation, one party might say, “We need to put all our cards on the table.”
A team leader might say, “I want to put the issue of employee morale on the table.”

39. Float

This term is used to casually introduce or mention a topic in conversation.

For instance, “I wanted to float the idea of a team outing.”
During a brainstorming session, someone might say, “Let’s float some creative ideas.”
A friend might casually float the question, “Have you ever thought about changing careers?”

40. Lay on the line

This phrase means to speak candidly or honestly about a topic or issue.

For example, “I’m going to lay it on the line and tell him how I really feel.”
During a performance review, a manager might say, “I need to lay everything on the line and provide constructive feedback.”
A person might say, “It’s time to lay my concerns on the line and address the problem.”

41. Propound

To propose or suggest an idea or argument for consideration or discussion. “Propound” is a formal term often used in academic or legal contexts.

For example, during a debate, a participant might say, “I would like to propound the idea of implementing stricter gun control laws.”
In a courtroom, a lawyer might propound a question to a witness, asking, “Do you have any evidence to support your claim?”
A professor might encourage students to propound their own theories and interpretations of a literary work.

42. Present for consideration

To introduce a topic or idea for discussion or consideration. This phrase is often used in formal or professional settings.

For instance, during a business meeting, a participant might say, “I would like to present for consideration a new marketing strategy.”
In a group discussion, someone might bring up a controversial topic by saying, “I’d like to present for consideration the issue of climate change.”
A teacher might ask students to present for consideration their solutions to a math problem.

43. Table

To postpone or set aside a topic for future discussion. In American English, “table” often means to delay or suspend consideration of an issue.

For example, during a meeting, someone might suggest, “Let’s table the discussion on budget cuts until we have more information.”
In a political debate, a candidate might say, “We need to table this issue and focus on more pressing matters.”
A team leader might decide to table a proposal in order to gather more input from team members.

44. Ventilate

To openly discuss or air out a topic or issue. “Ventilate” is often used when referring to bringing up sensitive or controversial subjects.

For instance, during a therapy session, a patient might say, “I need to ventilate my feelings about my recent breakup.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “We need to ventilate our frustrations and find a solution.”
A journalist might write an article to ventilate the concerns of a marginalized community.