a defined subject matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a defined subject matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific topic or area of focus that has been clearly outlined or specified. Example: "In our discussion, we will focus on a defined subject matter to ensure clarity and understanding among all participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

A techne is supposed to have a well defined subject matter, but the techne that is wisdom would oversee all subject matter and therefore would seem to have no subject matter proper to itself.

SEP

He said the new program would probably have two hosts and feature more live guests, more defined subject matter (that is, less rambling) and more calls from listeners.

The New York Times

While studying art in Düsseldorf, Mr. Walther, like many young postwar artists, came under the influence of Art Informel, a European counterpart to Abstract Expressionism that emphasized the expressive instincts of the artist over defined subject matter.

The New York Times

Later this triad was taken up by Frege in (1918) when he defined the subject-matter of logic (see below).

SEP

Indeed the impression one gains is that Eleonora was not an impassioned collector of objects even though her active role in defining the subject-matter of the frescoes in her apartment has now been strikingly clarified.

Johns Hopkins University

(Ms. Bethel defines nonobjective works as those that blend abstraction and realism either defined by subject matter, deliberate manipulation or titles, as opposed to documentary photographs of the same period by figures like Weegee or Ansel Adams, which are far more expensive).

The New York Times - Arts

During our exploration for blog topic, we find that all sections in copyright clearly defined its subject matter as content: literary works, musical works etc. Section 117 to some extent defined the copyright of software (and implicitly, games) but addressed the work with respect to physical copies.

University of California, Berkeley

And while he is not overtly political in the sense of occupying a defined position on the left or right, his subject matter has become steadily more political in the sense of its potential divisiveness.

The Guardian

The Patent Act of 1793, authored by Thomas Jefferson, defined statutory subject matter as "any new and useful art, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new or useful improvement [thereof]." Act of Feb. 21, 1793, § 1, 1 Stat.

Harvard University

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Vice

Boogie credits witnessing the turmoil in Serbia as the catalyst that defined the subject matter he'd continue exploring throughout his career, which gained steam once he started shooting in Brooklyn.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a defined subject matter", ensure the subject is explicitly outlined or commonly understood within your audience to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a defined subject matter" to describe a field that is, in practice, very broad or interdisciplinary. This can create confusion and misrepresent the actual scope of the topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defined subject matter" functions as a noun phrase, where "defined" acts as an adjective modifying "subject matter". It typically serves to specify and limit the scope of a topic or area of discussion.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a defined subject matter" is grammatically sound and serves to specify a topic's clear boundaries, thus ensuring shared understanding. While its occurrence is relatively rare, Ludwig's analysis of the provided examples reveals its suitability in contexts ranging from news and media to scientific and academic discussions. When clarity is crucial, this phrase proves useful. To enhance writing precision, consider using alternative terms like "a specific subject area", ensuring to maintain consistency and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific subject area

Replaces "defined" with "specific", emphasizing particularity rather than clarity of definition.

a well-defined topic

Focuses on the topic itself being clearly defined, rather than the subject matter.

a clearly delineated subject

Uses "delineated" to highlight the boundaries and scope of the subject.

a precise area of study

Emphasizes precision and the academic nature of the subject.

a focused subject area

Highlights the concentration and narrowness of the subject.

a distinct field of inquiry

Replaces "subject matter" with "field of inquiry", suggesting a more investigative approach.

a scoped subject

Highlights how boundaries have been explicitly limited.

an established area of knowledge

Highlights how subject area is recognized.

a demarcated research area

Emphasizes formal demarcation or boundary setting within the context of research.

a circumscribed domain of knowledge

Uses more formal language to indicate a limited and well-defined area.

FAQs

How can I use "a defined subject matter" in a sentence?

You can use "a defined subject matter" to specify the scope of a discussion, study, or artistic work. For example: "The course focuses on "a defined subject matter" to ensure students gain a deep understanding".

What are some alternatives to "a defined subject matter"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a specific subject area", "a well-defined topic", or "a clearly delineated subject" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "defined subject matter" or "specific subject matter"?

Both "defined subject matter" and "specific subject matter" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Defined" emphasizes clarity and boundaries, while "specific" emphasizes particularity and detail. Choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "a defined subject matter"?

The phrase "a defined subject matter" is most appropriate in academic, professional, or technical contexts where precise communication is important. It signals that the topic has clear boundaries and is well-understood.