a serious subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics that require careful consideration or are of significant importance. Example: "The discussion on climate change is a serious subject that affects us all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sexual harassment is a serious subject.

The New York Times

But at least politicians and pundits broached a serious subject.

The Economist

"This is a serious subject," Mr. Daniels said.

The New York Times

Spike Gillespie's cavalier attitude, trivializing a serious subject, was unsettling.

The New York Times

STEVE COLL: There is a serious subject in here.

The New Yorker

But when you try to be funny on a serious subject, it's obviously risky.

The Guardian

Should lessons on such a serious subject be doled out by the likes of Snooki?

The New York Times - Arts

Universities have been slower to recognize psychical research as a serious subject for study.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And yet, it is seldom considered as a serious subject for study.

The New Yorker

And yet housework is seldom considered as a serious subject for study or even discussion.

The New Yorker

Shelley employed it for a serious subject in The Witch of Atlas (1824).

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a serious subject", provide context to establish its importance for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using humor or flippant language when discussing "a serious subject" unless it is done intentionally for a specific effect. Maintain a tone appropriate to the gravity of the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious subject" functions as a noun phrase, where "serious" is an adjective modifying the noun "subject". It identifies a topic that warrants careful attention and consideration. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to introduce significant issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a serious subject" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce a topic that requires careful consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is frequently used across various contexts, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, it is important to provide sufficient context to emphasize the gravity of the issue and to avoid trivializing it with inappropriate humor or language. Alternatives such as "an important issue" or "a critical topic" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an important issue

Focuses on the significance of the matter at hand, suitable for formal contexts.

a critical topic

Highlights the urgency and necessity of addressing the subject.

a sensitive issue

Highlights the need for careful and tactful handling of the topic.

a weighty matter

Replaces "subject" with "matter", emphasizing the importance and potential consequences.

a crucial point

Highlights a specific element that is essential for understanding the larger issue.

a significant theme

Suitable when discussing recurring ideas or motifs in literature or art.

a profound subject

Implies depth and complexity, often used in philosophical or intellectual contexts.

a pressing matter

Indicates urgency and the need for immediate attention.

a grave concern

Emphasizes the potential for negative outcomes, focusing on worry and anxiety.

a complex problem

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the challenge.

FAQs

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

You can use "a serious subject" to introduce a topic that requires careful thought and consideration. For example, "Climate change is "a serious subject" that demands immediate action."

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

You can use alternatives like "an important issue", "a critical topic", or "a grave concern" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use humor when discussing "a serious subject"?

Using humor can be risky. While it can sometimes make "a serious subject" more approachable, it can also trivialize the issue if not handled carefully. Ensure the humor is sensitive and appropriate for the audience and context.

How can I ensure my audience understands the weight of "a serious subject"?

Provide sufficient background information, evidence, and context to highlight the significance and potential impact of "a serious subject". Use clear and direct language to convey the importance of the topic.