Subject Matter
Definition:
The term "subject matter" refers to the main topic or theme that is being discussed, studied, or presented in a piece of communication, such as a book, article, speech, or artwork. It is what the content is all about.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "subject matter" when you want to talk about the focus of a discussion or piece of work. It is often used in academic, artistic, and professional contexts to clarify what the central theme is.
Example:
- In a book about climate change, the subject matter includes global warming, weather patterns, and environmental policies.
- The subject matter of her presentation was the impact of social media on communication.
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, "subject matter" can also refer to specific fields of study or expertise. For example, in legal discussions, the subject matter might include laws, regulations, or case studies relevant to a particular area of law.
Word Variants:
- Subject (noun) - the main theme or idea in a discussion or piece of writing.
- Matter (noun) - refers to what something is about, but when used alone, it can also refer to physical substance or issues of concern.
Different Meanings:
While "subject matter" primarily refers to a topic or theme, "subject" can also mean a person or thing that is being discussed or referred to in a sentence. For instance, in "The dog is barking," "the dog" is the subject of the sentence.
Synonyms:
- Topic
- Theme
- Content
- Focus
- Area of study
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
- There aren't any specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "subject matter," but you might encounter phrases like "get to the heart of the matter," which means to focus on the main issue or topic.
Summary:
In summary, "subject matter" is an important term to understand when discussing any form of communication. It helps identify what the main focus is, whether in writing, speaking, or other forms of expression.