a matter of will

USAGE SUMMARY

'a matter of will' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe something that depends solely upon the will of one or more people. For example, "Whether or not I succeed is a matter of will."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

It's a matter of will.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a matter of will and leadership.

The New York Times

At this point, it is just a matter of will".

The New Yorker

Creativity is a matter of will, not whimsy.

The Guardian - Opinion

But then remoteness is also a matter of will, as Mr. Salinger succeeded in proving.

The New York Times

It's just a matter of will power: the day you decide it's over, it's over.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

The M. & M. sees avoiding error as a matter of will--of anticipating the myriad ways that things can go wrong and then trying to head off potential problems before they happen.

The New Yorker

The connections between depression (as measured by the CIDI-SF) and components of personal stigma (as measured by the "Depression is a matter of will -scale, the "Desire for Social Distance"-scale and the "Antidepressant Attitudes" - scale) will -scaleed using logisthe regressions.

BMC Psychiatry

"It's a matter of political will".

The New York Times

It is a matter of determined will".

The New Yorker

Is it a matter of political will?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a matter of will", ensure the context clearly indicates that the outcome or success depends primarily on someone's determination or choice, rather than external factors or abilities. This phrase effectively emphasizes the power of individual agency.

Common error

Avoid oversimplifying complex situations by stating that success is "a matter of will" when other critical factors, such as resources, knowledge, or support, also play a significant role. Acknowledge the multifaceted nature of most challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a matter of will" functions as a noun phrase that emphasizes the significance of volition or determination in achieving a specific outcome. According to Ludwig, it is often employed to highlight that success is directly related to someone's willingness or resolve. It is used as a predicate nominative, explaining what something depends on.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

14%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a matter of will" is a commonly used phrase that signifies the importance of determination and volition in achieving a desired outcome. As indicated by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, emphasizing personal agency. The phrase enjoys broad applicability across various registers, from formal academic discourse to informal conversations. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it's crucial to remember that oversimplifying complex situations by attributing success solely to willpower should be avoided. Alternatives such as "a matter of volition" or "a question of will" can offer nuanced perspectives, enhancing precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of volition

Emphasizes the act of making a conscious choice or decision.

a case of will

Suggests that the situation hinges on someone's determination.

a question of will

Highlights the uncertainty or doubt surrounding whether someone is willing to do something.

a matter of determination

Focuses on the resolve and firmness of purpose required.

a matter of willpower

Specifically refers to the mental strength needed to control one's impulses or actions.

dependent on one's resolve

Highlights the importance of a firm decision to achieve something.

contingent on one's decision

Focuses on decision-making, but the structure changes to an adjective.

subject to one's inclination

Indicates that the outcome depends on someone's preference or tendency.

up to the individual's choice

Emphasizes personal choice and autonomy in the matter.

predicated on one's commitment

Indicates reliance on one's dedication and pledge to a cause or action.

FAQs

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

You can use "a matter of will" to indicate that the outcome of a situation depends on someone's determination or choice. For example, "Overcoming this challenge is "a matter of will" and perseverance."

What are some alternatives to saying "a matter of will"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a matter of volition", "a case of will", or "a question of will".

When is it appropriate to use "a matter of will"?

Use "a matter of will" when you want to emphasize that success or failure hinges on someone's determination, rather than external circumstances or inherent abilities. This phrase is effective in contexts where personal agency is key.

What's the difference between "a matter of will" and "a matter of ability"?

"A matter of will" implies that the outcome depends on someone's determination, while "a matter of ability" suggests that it depends on someone's skill or capability. For instance, achieving a physical feat could be "a matter of ability", whereas sticking to a diet is "a matter of will".