talks
n. C / Un. formal discussions between groups or countries, usually to reach an agreement or solve a problem. These are more serious than a normal conversation.
n. formal discussions or negotiations between opposing parties, typically in a political, diplomatic, or industrial context.
The two countries are holding peace talks this week.
After weeks of strikes, the union and the management finally agreed to enter into emergency talks to resolve the pay dispute.
High-level diplomatic talks aimed at de-escalating the border conflict have stalled due to disagreements over the specific terms of the proposed ceasefire.
Almost always used in the plural form when referring to formal negotiations; the singular 'talk' is more common for informal lectures or general conversation.