Intimate matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Intimate matters" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing personal or private issues, often related to relationships or emotions. For example: "They decided to keep their intimate matters private." Alternative expressions include "personal issues" and "private concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Intimate matters are no longer markers of tragic destiny but, rather, of the practical will to confront them; the market-centered cinema of private life sells the prospect of making one's own happy ending.

The New Yorker

Marriage, infidelity and divorce: These intimate matters are familiar to humans.

The New York Times - Science

He was asked to testify on even such intimate matters as reform of the rules.

Harvard University

Some men told her they didn't like their wives and daughters discussing such intimate matters with strangers.

The New Yorker

How did Mr. Apted get his subjects to talk about intimate matters like these for the camera?

The New York Times

Take Her Off Speaker While in adjacent dressing rooms at Neiman Marcus, the woman next to me spoke loudly into her cellphone, discussing very intimate matters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Technique is such an intimate matter.

The New York Times - Arts

The fight over the grave sites was both an intimate matter and a public struggle over a national landmark.

The New York Times

What should have been a private, intimate matter was turned into a publicity-crazed, history-making event, one from which we are likely to have great difficulty recovering.

The New York Times

The intimate, matter-of-fact portrait of Charlotte, begun in 1789, when Lawrence was 20 and still relatively new to London, helped make his name as a painter — even though the king and queen didn't like it and never paid him.

The New York Times

It was simple, undramatic, and direct well suited to his intimate subject matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics, use "intimate matters" to maintain a respectful and considerate tone. For example, in therapeutic or counseling contexts, this phrase can help create a safe space for open communication.

Common error

Avoid using "intimate matters" in contexts where privacy is paramount, such as business meetings or public forums. Reserve this phrase for appropriate, private discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimate matters" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to personal and private issues, often of a sensitive or emotional nature. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intimate matters" is a noun phrase used to describe personal, private, and often sensitive issues. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts such as news articles, academic papers, and general discourse. While the topics themselves can be delicate, the phrase is generally neutral in register, allowing for respectful and discreet communication. Related phrases include "private concerns" and "personal affairs", offering alternative ways to discuss sensitive subjects. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the appropriate level of privacy and respect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Private matters

A more general term emphasizing privacy without specifying the nature of the issues.

Personal affairs

Focuses on the private nature of the issues, omitting the emotional connotation.

Private concerns

Highlights the confidential aspect of the issues, suitable for formal contexts.

Personal business

Emphasizes the individual's involvement in the matters, more direct and less euphemistic.

Confidential issues

Stresses the secrecy and sensitivity surrounding the topics.

Sensitive subjects

Highlights the delicate nature of the topics discussed, often requiring careful handling.

Close-to-home issues

Emphasizes the personal and immediate impact of the issues on someone's life.

Matters of the heart

Specifically refers to emotional or romantic issues.

Delicate situations

Highlights the need for careful management and sensitivity in dealing with the issues.

Family secrets

Focuses on hidden or undisclosed information within a family context.

FAQs

How can I use "Intimate matters" in a sentence?

You can use "intimate matters" to refer to personal or private issues, especially those related to relationships, feelings, or sexuality. For example, "They discussed "intimate matters" in confidence".

What is a more formal alternative to "Intimate matters"?

A more formal alternative is "private concerns" or "personal affairs", which maintains a respectful distance while discussing sensitive issues.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "Intimate matters"?

It's appropriate to use "intimate matters" in situations where personal and private topics are being discussed, such as in therapy, close relationships, or confidential settings. Avoid using it in professional environments or casual conversations.

Is "Intimate matters" the same as "Private matters"?

While similar, "intimate matters" often implies a deeper emotional or relational connection, whereas "private matters" is a more general term for personal and confidential issues.