a separate topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate topic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a subject or issue is distinct from the current discussion or context. Example: "While the environmental impact is important, the economic implications are a separate topic that deserves further exploration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Is that a -- is that a separate topic?

The New York Times

"This I think we would deal with as a separate topic from the AUMF itself.

The Guardian

Alcohol and drugs do not feature prominently as a separate topic in the National Occupational Standards for Social Work.

The Guardian

Many schools today don't even teach spelling as a separate topic — it's been called the stepchild of the curriculum.

The Washington Post

To begin with, you have to ask: "Why am I reading this book or newspaper?" Reading for pleasure — that's a separate topic.

Harvard Business Review

Since events of this kind occur more frequently at times when there is no significant growth of the ring current, they are treated below as a separate topic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Julia's multiple dispatch system is essential to making this work (though the details of that are a whole separate topic).

Forbes

The detailed treatment of the pre-translational origin of the genetic code is a whole separate topic that will be reviewed elsewhere (Szathmáry and Rodin, in preparation).

Biology Direct

After all, whether or not it is intentional, reacting to a community's grief by raising an entirely separate topic smacks largely of distraction - of reflexively throwing up a roadblock to what is a legitimate line of inquiry in the hope that the subject might swiftly be changed".

BBC

Simulation is discussed as an entire separate topic in itself.

Designing Embedded Systems with PIC Microcontrollers Principles and Applications

Whether we approve or knowingly consent to this data collection is a large, but separate topic".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a separate topic", clearly signal the transition to avoid confusing your audience. Use transitional phrases like 'Moving on to', 'In other news', or 'Turning to' to indicate the shift.

Common error

Avoid abruptly introducing "a separate topic" without providing context or a clear signal of the change in subject. This can lead to disjointed writing and confuse the reader. Make the shift explicit with a transitional phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separate topic" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase indicates the subject under consideration is unique.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a separate topic" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to introduce a new and distinct subject. As Ludwig AI states, it's a clear way to signal a shift in focus. It enjoys broad applicability across various registers, from formal academic writing to neutral news reports, with a slightly higher prevalence in News & Media and Science contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure you provide a clear transition to avoid reader confusion. Consider using alternative phrases like "a distinct subject" or "a different matter" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct subject

Replaces 'topic' with 'subject', implying a clearly defined area of study.

a different matter

Substitutes 'topic' with 'matter', suggesting a change in the issue being considered.

an unrelated issue

Uses 'issue' instead of 'topic', highlighting the lack of connection between the two subjects.

a tangential point

Emphasizes that the new topic is only loosely related to the original one.

another question altogether

Indicates a complete shift to a new and different area of inquiry.

a discrete area

Highlights that the new topic is self-contained and independent.

a separate concern

Focuses on the fact that the new topic represents a different worry or area of interest.

an independent theme

Replaces 'topic' with 'theme', emphasizing the self-governing nature of the subject.

a divergent aspect

Implies that the new topic branches off from the main discussion.

a wholly different ballgame

An idiomatic expression meaning that the new topic is completely different and unrelated to the previous one.

FAQs

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

You can use "a separate topic" to introduce a new subject that is distinct from the current discussion. For example: "We've discussed the budget, but marketing is "a separate topic" we need to address."

What can I say instead of "a separate topic"?

You can use alternatives like "a different matter", "an unrelated issue", or "a distinct subject" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a separate topic" in formal writing?

Yes, "a separate topic" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. It is a clear and concise way to indicate a shift in subject.

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

"A separate topic" indicates that the new subject is distinct and not directly connected to the previous one. In contrast, "a related topic" implies that the new subject is connected or relevant to the previous discussion, but still merits exploration.