a serious matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics that require careful consideration or attention due to their importance or potential consequences. Example: "The recent data breach is a serious matter that needs to be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That's a serious matter.

The Washington Post

"It's a serious matter.

The New York Times

In Judaism, idolatry is a serious matter.

The New York Times

True beauty is always a serious matter".

The New Yorker

Inequality is a serious matter.

The Washington Post

"It is a serious matter.

The Washington Post

This was a serious matter.

The Guardian

Life is a serious matter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is a serious matter in dire need of addressing.

Independent

It's no doubt a serious matter.

TechCrunch

Flooding is a serious matter in China's Three Gorges Reservoir Region.

Functional and Integrative Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a serious matter", ensure the context clearly establishes why the matter is serious. Provide specific details or implications to emphasize its importance to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a serious matter" in trivial situations. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic. Reserve it for genuinely important issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious matter" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is widely used and grammatically sound, affirming its role in denoting significant issues that warrant careful attention. Examples in Ludwig show its function across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious matter" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to emphasize the importance or gravity of an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, it serves to highlight issues that require attention and consideration. When using this phrase, context and clarity are key to ensure its impact and relevance are fully realized. While alternatives like ""a grave concern"" or ""a critical issue"" offer similar meanings, "a serious matter" remains a reliable choice for conveying significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a grave concern

Emphasizes the potential for negative consequences, indicating a high level of worry or fear.

a critical issue

Highlights the urgency and importance of addressing the matter at hand.

a significant problem

Indicates that the matter is not minor and warrants attention.

a weighty subject

Suggests the matter is complex and requires careful consideration.

a pressing concern

Implies that the matter needs immediate attention.

a major issue

Similar to "a significant problem", but can also imply broader implications.

an alarming development

Focuses on the cause of concern, portraying it as something worrying that has recently occurred.

a cause for alarm

Highlights the potential danger or negative impact of the matter.

a matter of urgency

Emphasizes the need for immediate action or attention.

a worrying trend

Highlights a pattern of concern, suggesting a potential future negative impact.

FAQs

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

You can use "a serious matter" to emphasize the importance or potential consequences of a situation. For example, "The data breach is "a serious matter" that requires immediate investigation."

What can I say instead of "a serious matter"?

You can use alternatives like "a grave concern", "a critical issue", or "a significant problem" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a very serious matter"?

Yes, "a very serious matter" is grammatically correct and emphasizes the level of seriousness. However, consider whether the additional emphasis is necessary or if ""a serious matter"" is sufficient.

What's the difference between "a serious matter" and "a critical situation"?

"A serious matter" generally indicates something important that needs attention, while "a critical situation" implies an immediate threat or emergency. The latter suggests a more urgent need for action.