a separate matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when distinguishing a different topic or issue from the one currently being discussed. Example: "While the budget is important, the issue of employee morale is a separate matter that also needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

(Bagel Bites are a separate matter).

The New Yorker

Summer is a separate matter.

The New Yorker

This is a separate matter".

The New York Times - Sports

The daily tapings are a separate matter.

The New Yorker

Coffee, however, is a separate matter.

The New York Times - Food

Whether you should, however, is a separate matter.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This is a separate matter related only to dogs.

The New York Times

The inherent subjectivity of humor is a separate matter.

The New York Times

Children who contract Ebola and survive are a separate matter.

The New Yorker

The commission has already fined Google on a separate matter.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

In a separate matter, the regulatory arm of the N.A.S.D. charged Morgan Stanley's brokerage unit with misleading investors about the risks of some bond funds it sold.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a separate matter" to clearly delineate topics in your writing, ensuring your audience understands when you are transitioning to a new, unrelated subject.

Common error

Avoid using "a separate matter" when you mean a part or division of the same topic. "Separate" implies distinctness, not just a section.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separate matter" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or an appositive. It serves to introduce a topic or issue that is distinct and unrelated to the one previously discussed, as demonstrated by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a separate matter" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression employed to distinguish distinct topics or issues. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, including news, academia, and even science. When using this phrase, ensure that the items being distinguished are genuinely unrelated to avoid confusion. While alternatives like "a different issue" or "an unrelated topic" exist, "a separate matter" provides a clear and concise way to delineate subjects in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a different issue

Focuses on the divergence of issues rather than the separateness of the matter.

an unrelated topic

Emphasizes the lack of connection between the current subject and another topic.

a distinct concern

Highlights that the matter is not only separate but also noteworthy and deserving of attention.

another question entirely

Suggests a complete shift in focus to a new and independent inquiry.

a discrete entity

Implies the matter is self-contained and not dependent on other factors.

a side issue

Indicates a matter that is tangential to the main topic.

an independent point

Emphasizes the self-standing nature of the matter being discussed.

a different kettle of fish

An idiomatic expression conveying that the matter is significantly different.

something else altogether

Highlights a complete divergence from the current matter under consideration.

a tangent

Suggests moving away from the central theme to an only loosely related subject.

FAQs

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

Use "a separate matter" to introduce a topic that is distinct from the one you're currently discussing. For example, "The budget is one thing, but employee morale is "a separate matter"."

What are some alternatives to "a separate matter"?

You can use alternatives like "a different issue", "an unrelated topic", or "a distinct concern" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a separate matter" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in formal writing when you need to clearly distinguish between two or more distinct subjects. Ensure that the separate matter genuinely differs from the main topic.

What's the difference between "a separate matter" and "a related issue"?

"A separate matter" indicates no direct connection between two subjects, while "a related issue" implies a connection or relevance to the current topic. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the relationship between the subjects.