SpeakUp

Grammar fix

change the subject

switch topic

To start talking about something different, usually to avoid the current topic or to move the conversation in a new direction.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Whenever politics come up, he quickly tries to change the subject.communication
  • If I feel uncomfortable during a conversation, I usually try to change the subject by mentioning something more positive, like travel or hobbies.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: change the subject

WrongShe changed of subject.

RightShe changed the subject.

'Change THE subject' — no 'of'.

Patternchange the subject

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff She redirected the conversational topic to an unrelated matter.

Natural She quickly changed the subject.

'Redirected the conversational topic' is jargon; 'changed the subject' is what people say.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • change the subject
    quicklytry toabruptlydeliberately

Don't confuse it

Not the same as 'change the topic', which is less common and less natural in spoken English.

Try it in Daily Speak →