a question of substance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of substance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing matters that are significant or meaningful, often in a legal, philosophical, or analytical context. Example: "In this debate, we must focus on a question of substance rather than getting lost in trivial details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is a question of substance.

The Guardian

"We are viewed as being at the more stringent end of the spectrum and that's a question of substance as well as perception," she told MPs.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Here, the court would not truly be deciding a question of constitutional substance on par with the scope of abortion.

The New York Times

It is, therefore, a question of binding substances used for touching up or repaint the incomplete parts of the pictures.

Chemistry Central Journal

I am told that around this time, one of the reporters in the room, hoping to ask a question about the debt ceiling, was overheard whispering, "Is this really happening?" It was! (That reporter ended up not getting called on to ask an actual question of substance).

Huffington Post

Yet this is a question of style, not substance.

The Guardian - Film

"Any change would probably be a question of style over substance," Reuters concludes.

Huffington Post

Sirk's complex visual style is always a question of surfaces and substances, outsides and insides.

The New York Times

One suspects that Mr. Kouyaté's signposted naïveté is much like Mamadi's -- quickly shed, and a question of rhetoric more than of substance.

The New York Times

According to Mr. Kumin, "if you take the time to look at the text itself, you can see that this is a lot of excitement over what is essentially a question of legal procedure, not substance".

The New York Times

A question of timing rather than substance, perhaps, but the row has infuriated the Americans and may have permanently damaged NATO.These divisions will be highlighted this weekend, when millions of people around the world are expected to protest against an American-led war with Iraq.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a question of substance", ensure that the context clearly defines what the 'substance' refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of substance" when the issue is merely about presentation or superficial details; reserve it for discussions where the core principles or facts are at stake.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of substance" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to introduce or highlight a key issue or point of consideration. It indicates that the focus should be on the essential nature or significance of something, as suggested by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question of substance" is a phrase used to emphasize that the central focus should be on the important aspects of a matter, rather than trivial details. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides examples from diverse sources like news media, scientific journals, and encyclopedias. While relatively uncommon, its use adds a level of formality and precision to writing, making it suitable for professional, academic, and analytical contexts. Be mindful to use it only when highlighting core issues, differentiating it from matters of style or process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of importance

Focuses on the significance rather than the inherent nature of the issue.

a significant issue

Emphasizes the importance and impact of the topic.

a core concern

Highlights the central element needing attention.

a fundamental point

Stresses the basic and essential nature of the matter.

an essential element

Highlights that it is a necessary or indispensable part.

a key aspect

Focuses on one particular feature as being vital.

a central theme

Draws attention to the overarching idea or subject.

the crux of the matter

Indicates the most important or decisive point at issue.

the heart of the issue

Implies getting to the emotional or critical core.

a critical consideration

Highlights that the topic warrants careful thought and evaluation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a question of substance"?

You can use alternatives such as "a matter of importance", "a significant issue", or "a core concern" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a question of substance"?

Use "a question of substance" when you want to emphasize that the discussion or decision hinges on the actual facts, principles, or meaningful aspects of a situation, rather than superficial details.

What is the difference between "a question of substance" and "a question of process"?

"A question of substance" relates to the core issue or central point, while "a question of process" refers to the method or procedure used to address an issue. The former focuses on what is being decided, and the latter on how it's being decided.

Is "a question of substance" formal or informal?

The phrase "a question of substance" is generally considered to be more formal and is often used in legal, academic, or professional contexts where precise and thoughtful language is valued.