a big topic

USAGE SUMMARY

"a big topic" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a broad subject that has many aspects or components. For example, "Global warming is a big topic, with far-reaching implications for many industries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a big topic among evangelicals.

The New Yorker

"That was a big topic," she said.

The New York Times

"Marriage is a big topic for me," she said.

The New York Times

And damp basements are a big topic of conversation.

The New York Times

It's just not a big topic in Colombia.

The New York Times

Smacking was a big topic of my youthful conversation.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is a big topic here right now," she said.

The New York Times

Media ownership has become a big topic in Ireland.

The Guardian

"Food is a big topic in the circus," Bello explains.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The child caring for the parent is a big topic," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

"The importance of recovery is a big topic in exercise science," Dr. Raglin said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big topic" to introduce a broader discussion before diving into specific details. This approach allows you to set the stage and guide your audience through the subject matter effectively.

Common error

Avoid stating something is "a big topic" without providing substance. Ensure you elaborate on why it's significant and offer insightful perspectives to avoid appearing superficial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big topic" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig indicates its common usage across various contexts. For example, it can introduce a subject matter.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big topic" is a commonly used phrase to introduce a subject of broad importance and widespread discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across various sources, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's essential to provide sufficient context and depth when using this phrase to avoid superficiality. Alternative phrases like "a major subject" or "a significant issue" can add precision. The phrase serves to set the stage for further exploration, making it a valuable tool in both formal and informal communication. Remember to avoid overuse without substance to maintain clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major subject

Replaces "topic" with "subject" and "big" with "major", emphasizing significance.

a significant issue

Substitutes "topic" with "issue" and "big" with "significant", focusing on the importance of the matter.

a prominent theme

Replaces "topic" with "theme" and "big" with "prominent", highlighting the central nature of the subject.

an important matter

Uses "matter" instead of "topic" and "important" instead of "big", stressing the relevance of the issue.

a key area

Replaces "topic" with "area" and "big" with "key", pinpointing the importance and relevance of the subject.

a central question

Substitutes "topic" with "question" and "big" with "central", emphasizing the core problem or inquiry.

a major point of discussion

Expands the phrase to explicitly state a discussion focus, using "major" to indicate importance.

a considerable subject

Replaces "big" with "considerable", emphasizing the amount of thought or attention the subject deserves.

a noteworthy item

Substitutes "topic" with "item" and "big" with "noteworthy", indicating the subject's importance or deserving of attention.

a recurring theme

Replaces "big" with "recurring", highlighting the frequency or consistency with which the topic appears.

FAQs

How can I use "a big topic" in a sentence?

You can use "a big topic" to introduce a subject of significant importance or widespread interest. For example, "Climate change is "a big topic" in environmental science".

What are some alternatives to saying "a big topic"?

Alternatives include "a major subject", "a significant issue", or "a prominent theme", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a big topic" in formal writing?

Yes, "a big topic" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but consider using more precise alternatives like "a significant issue" or "a key area" for added emphasis.

What makes something qualify as "a big topic"?

A "big topic" is generally broad in scope, affects many people or areas, and is subject to considerable discussion or debate. It often has far-reaching implications and numerous aspects to consider.