谈起

• Pinyin: tán qǐ
• Hanzi breakdown: 谈 = 讠+ 炎; 起 = 走 (walk) + 己 (self)

Meaning

To mention; to bring up; to start talking about. Often triggers memories or emotions.

Used when someone begins to speak about a topic, often one that evokes memories, emotions, or extended discussion. Similar to 提起 but with more emphasis on subsequent discussion.

Examples

1. 一谈起当年的往事，老人家就打开了话匣子。 Once you bring up old times, the elderly person just opens up and talks endlessly.
2. 她谈起自己的家乡，眼里满是思念的神情。 When she talked about her hometown, her eyes were full of longing.
3. 谈起这次旅行的经历，他兴奋得手舞足蹈。 Talking about his travel experiences, he was so excited he was gesturing wildly.

Usage Guide

Context: conversation, reminiscence

Tone: evocative

Do Say

• 谈起往事，他很感慨。(When bringing up the past, he was quite emotional.)
• 一谈起足球他就停不下来。(Once he starts talking about football, he can't stop.)

Don't Say

• 把'谈起'和'提起'完全等同 (谈起 emphasizes the ensuing discussion; 提起 simply means to mention)

Origin & History

谈 means to talk, 起 means to rise or start. Together: to bring up (a topic).

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal