The English word "broach"

 The English word "broach" has a couple of distinct meanings, and its usage depends on which meaning you're aiming for.

Here's a breakdown of how to use "broach" in English:

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Meaning 1: To introduce a subject for discussion, often a sensitive or difficult one.

This is the most common and widely used meaning of "broach." It implies bringing up a topic that might be uncomfortable, personal, or controversial, and doing so with some care or hesitation.

Grammar:

• Verb: Transitive (requires an object)

Common structures:

• Broach a subject/topic/issue
• Broach the idea/question

Examples:

1. Introducing a difficult topic:

   • "I found it difficult to broach the subject of his declining health with him."
   • "She wasn't sure how to broach the sensitive issue of the budget cuts."
   • "He decided to broach the idea of working from home with his boss."

2. Implying carefulness or hesitation:

   • "After a long silence, she cautiously broached the topic of their future."
   • "It was a delicate matter, so he waited for the right moment to broach it."

Things to note when using this meaning:

• Connotation: It often carries a connotation of difficulty, sensitivity, or the need for careful handling. You wouldn't typically "broach" a casual or easy topic.
• Synonyms (with nuances): introduce, bring up, mention, raise, put forward, suggest. "Broach" often implies more thought and less casualness than simply "mention."

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Meaning 2: (Technical/Nautical) To pierce or make a hole in something.

This meaning is less common in everyday conversation and is more often found in specific technical contexts, particularly in sailing or woodworking/metalworking.

Grammar:

• Verb: Transitive (requires an object)

Examples:

1. In sailing:

   • "The strong crosswinds caused the boat to broach, turning sharply into the wind or waves and risking capsizing." (Here, it often refers to the boat itself turning sideways, not a physical hole, but the action of being caught sideways by wind/waves and losing control, which could lead to damage or piercing the water).
   • Self-correction: While "broach" in sailing can refer to the boat turning sideways to the waves/wind, it doesn't typically mean "to pierce" in that context. It means to turn broadside, often inadvertently and dangerously.

2. In woodworking/metalworking (less common now, but historically relevant):

   • "The carpenter used an auger to broach the hole for the new bolt." (Meaning to enlarge or ream out a hole).
   • "A specialized tool called a 'broach' is used to broach a keyway in a gear." (Here, "broach" refers to the specific action performed by the tool, which is cutting a precise, often non-circular hole or groove).

Things to note when using this meaning:

• Context is key: You would rarely use this meaning outside of a very specific technical discussion.
• Tool: The noun "broach" also refers to a specific cutting tool used for shaping holes or surfaces, which gives rise to this verb meaning.

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Summary of Usage:

For most general English conversations, when you hear or use "broach," it will almost certainly refer to introducing a difficult or sensitive topic.

• To discuss a difficult topic: "I need to broach the subject of my salary with my boss."
• For technical/nautical contexts: "The ship might broach in these rough seas." (Meaning turn broadside). Or, referring to a specialized tool's action.

If you're unsure, assume the first meaning as it is by far the more common in everyday English.