a common subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a topic or theme that is frequently discussed or shared among a group of people. Example: "In our discussions, we often find that climate change is a common subject that everyone is passionate about."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are linked by a common subject.

The Guardian - Arts

Where to find eggs is a common subject of discussion.

The Guardian

Watching porn was a common subject of discussion.

The Guardian - Opinion

The human figure was a common subject on Buka.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Patience Jonathan, the wife of the former President Goodluck Jonathan, was a common subject.

The New Yorker

But these movies, while united by a common theme, do not share a common subject matter.

The Guardian - Film

Making the issue a common subject of public conversation will aid this transformation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Leda and the Swan, on the other hand, is a common subject.

Independent

Local government corruption is a common subject of attack by local journalists and internet surfers.

The New York Times

Hispanics were a common subject of conversation at both conventions last week.

The New York Times

The exhibition focuses on a common subject where the two artists overlap in odd and unexpected ways: women.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common subject", ensure the context clearly indicates which group or community shares this subject. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a common subject" without specifying the relevant context. For instance, saying 'Politics is a common subject' is too broad. Instead, specify 'Politics is a common subject in news media'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common subject" typically functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it identifies a topic or theme frequently discussed or considered. Examples show its use in various contexts, indicating its versatility and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common subject" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to denote a topic frequently discussed or considered within a group or context. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and versatility across different domains. Its primary function is to identify a shared focus, and its register remains relatively neutral. To ensure clarity, specify the relevant context when using this phrase. Alternatives such as ""a frequent topic"" or ""a recurring theme"" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a frequent topic

Replaces 'subject' with 'topic', implying a recurring theme in discussions.

a recurring theme

Emphasizes the repetitive nature of the subject.

a popular issue

Highlights the widespread interest or concern regarding the subject.

a familiar matter

Suggests the subject is well-known or easily recognized.

a shared concern

Focuses on the element of mutual worry or interest.

a typical theme

Indicates that the subject is representative or standard.

a prevalent matter

Highlights the widespread presence of the subject.

a general area

Broadens the scope to an area of interest rather than a specific subject.

a usual suspect

Informal idiom suggesting a predictable or expected subject.

a well-worn trope

Implies the subject is overused or cliché.

FAQs

How can I use "a common subject" in a sentence?

You can use "a common subject" to indicate a topic frequently discussed or considered within a specific group. For example, "Climate change is "a common subject" in environmental science conferences".

What are some alternatives to "a common subject"?

Alternatives include "a frequent topic", "a recurring theme", or "a popular issue" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "common subject" or "shared subject"?

While both are acceptable, ""a common subject"" implies prevalence and frequency, whereas "shared subject" emphasizes mutual interest or concern. The best choice depends on the context.

What is the difference between ""a common subject"" and "a common theme"?

"A common subject" refers to a specific topic or matter being discussed or considered. "A common theme" refers to an underlying idea or message that connects various elements.