# broach

/ˈbɹoʊtʃ/ (US) · /bɹˈəʊtʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/broach
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to bring up a difficult or sensitive topic so people can start talking about it. You use this when the subject feels awkward and needs care.

For teachers: to introduce a sensitive or difficult subject for discussion, often for the first time. Implies caution or delicacy on the speaker's part.

## Examples

- She broaches the idea of moving to a smaller flat.
- During the team meeting, he finally broaches the issue of overtime pay that everyone has avoided for weeks.
- Having sensed her parents' reluctance to discuss the will, she waits until dinner is over before she broaches the question of who will care for the family home.

## Synonyms

raise, introduce

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, often 'subject', 'topic', 'issue', or 'question'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.