a matter of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a matter of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to mean something is a subject of discussion, debate, or importance, or to mean something is an issue that needs to be addressed. For example: "It's a matter of safety, so we should make sure the building is up to code."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A matter of days.

Independent

A matter of signals.

The New Yorker

"It's a matter of ideology".

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a matter of judgment.

Independent

It's a matter of trust".

The New York Times

A matter of disarmament treaties.

The Guardian - Tech

It's a matter of opinion.

The New York Times

"That's a matter of debate.

Independent

It's a matter of control.

The New Yorker

It's a matter of triangulation.

The New York Times

Only a matter of time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a matter of" to introduce the core aspect or decisive factor in a situation. For example: "Success in this project is a matter of careful planning and execution."

Common error

Avoid using "a matter of" in vague or general statements. Always clarify what specific aspect or element is being emphasized. Instead of saying "It's a matter of importance", specify what makes it important. Instead say, "It's a matter of national security, requiring immediate action."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a matter of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, often indicating the subject, issue, or factor being considered. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. For instance, "It's a matter of trust".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a matter of" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the importance or relevance of a particular subject or factor. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. With a neutral register, it seamlessly fits into diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While readily used, ensure clear context to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like ""a question of"" or ""an issue of"" for nuanced expression. This phrase is indeed a valuable component of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of

Focuses on uncertainty or debate surrounding something.

an issue of

Highlights a problem or subject needing attention.

a subject of

Emphasizes that something is being discussed or studied.

a question for

Highlights that something is being debated or decided.

a case of

Suggests an instance or example of something.

a topic of

Similar to "a subject of", but implies a broader area of discussion.

a point of

Highlights a specific detail or aspect to consider.

a concern with

Indicates worry or anxiety regarding something.

a feature of

Highlights a certain element or trait.

a consequence of

Indicates a result or outcome of something.

FAQs

What does "a matter of" mean?

The phrase "a matter of" signifies that something is related to, dependent on, or concerning a particular subject, issue, or factor. It's used to emphasize the relevance or importance of something in a given context.

How can I use "a matter of" in a sentence?

You can use "a matter of" to highlight the key aspect influencing a situation. For example: "Resolving this dispute is "a matter of compromise"." This indicates that compromise is the crucial element for resolving the dispute.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a matter of"?

Alternatives include "a question of", "an issue of", or "a subject of". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. For example, "a question of" implies uncertainty, while "an issue of" suggests a problem to be addressed.

Is it correct to say "it's a matter of when, not if"?

Yes, it is correct. This construction emphasizes that an event is certain to happen; the only uncertainty is the timing. For instance, "His success is "a matter of when", not if, given his talent and dedication."