a proper matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proper matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that is considered appropriate or suitable for a particular context. Example: "The committee decided that the funding request was a proper matter to be discussed at the next meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Williams says education "might well be regarded as a proper matter for open probing".

The Guardian

"If Britain's future as an independent country is not a proper matter for a referendum, then I have absolutely no idea what is".

The New York Times

Batman, then, came out of a time when the private ownership of firearms was considered a proper matter for government regulation.

The New Yorker

But it could indicate that Mr. Schröder's vision is not an unreasonable one, whether or not it is a proper matter for the government to try to control.

The New York Times

But, for example, the comprehensive reworking of the Education Act 1944 that is now going forward might well be regarded as a proper matter for open probing in the context of election debates.

The Economist

However both sides, government as well as the petitioners, accept that it is a proper matter for the courts to decide, whatever the Brexiteers are shouting about declaring war on democracy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In its analysis, the court stated that the forum selection bylaws regulate a proper subject matter under Delaware's corporate statute and that, as a contractual matter, the stockholders assented to the forum selection bylaws because the boards of directors had the authority under the corporations' respective certificates of incorporation to unilaterally adopt bylaws.

Harvard University

Avicenna thus confirms that logic has a proper subject matter, and hence becomes a full-fledged part of philosophy, and not only a tool for the philosophical disciplines (Sabra 1980, 752 753).

SEP

The support that students receive from their university when they have experienced violence and sexual assault is a serious matter and a proper subject for journalistic inquiry.

The Guardian

The will purified of any inclination and desire for an ulterior end is the proper matter for practical reason.

SEP

And since natural forms require for their operations a determinate matter made suitable for them by qualitative and quantitative dispositions, natural scientists must define forms through their proper matter.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a proper matter", ensure the context clearly establishes why the subject is appropriate or relevant. For instance, specify the criteria that make it "proper" for discussion or action.

Common error

Avoid using "a proper matter" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "relevant issue" or "suitable topic" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper matter" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a predicate nominative or an object of a preposition. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable. The phrase indicates something is appropriate or suitable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a proper matter" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that signifies something appropriate, suitable, or relevant for consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not overly common, with a 'Uncommon' frequency, its usage spans various contexts, particularly in news and media and academic discussions. It conveys a sense of formality and justification for focusing on a specific topic. Alternatives such as "an appropriate subject" or "a fitting issue" may be more suitable in informal settings. When employing "a proper matter", ensure that the context justifies its formality and clarifies the reasons for the subject's appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appropriate subject

Focuses on suitability as a topic, shifting from the broader concept of "matter".

a fitting issue

Emphasizes the appropriateness of the problem or point at hand.

a suitable topic

Highlights the relevance and appropriateness of the theme for discussion.

a relevant concern

Shifts the focus to the importance and connection to the current situation.

a pertinent question

Specifically highlights the question's relevance and importance.

an applicable case

Highlights the matter's suitability for application or consideration under specific rules or guidelines.

a valid point

Underscores the legitimacy and relevance of the argument or observation.

a legitimate issue

Emphasizes the lawfulness and acceptability of the problem.

a justified concern

Focuses on the well-founded nature of the apprehension.

a well-suited subject

Highlights that the subject is very appropriate or compatible.

FAQs

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

Use "a proper matter" to describe something suitable or appropriate for discussion or consideration. For example, "The committee decided that the budget proposal was "a proper matter" for review".

What are some alternatives to "a proper matter"?

Alternatives include "an appropriate subject", "a fitting issue", or "a suitable topic", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a proper matter"?

It is suitable in formal settings, legal contexts, or when emphasizing the appropriateness of a topic for serious consideration. It's less common in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "a proper matter" and "an important issue"?

"A proper matter" emphasizes the appropriateness or suitability of the topic, while "an important issue" stresses its significance or impact. The former is about relevance, the latter is about consequence.