a soft subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a soft subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a topic that is sensitive, delicate, or not very serious in nature. Example: "In our discussion, we should avoid bringing up a soft subject like personal finances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

What a shame that what is regarded as an acceptable education has become so narrow and in its focus and loses both its vocational and artistic elements through an anachronistic and erroneously subjective view of what is a "soft" subject.

The Guardian

We think of history as a "soft" subject.

The Guardian - Opinion

A: I used to teach a subject that was considered a soft subject.

Harvard University

All drama teachers are familiar with suggestions that drama is a soft subject.

The Guardian

In any case, the government sees drama as a "soft" subject, best pushed to the margins of the curriculum.

The Guardian

Countering any suggestion that libraries are a "soft subject" for a piece of political theatre, Brennan sees these houses of knowledge as the "cornerstone" of our society.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But for her new book, "La Seduction" (Times Books), which is excerpted on Page 63, Sciolino seized on a softer subject: French culture's broad concept of s ction, from perfume and wine to politics and diplomacy.

The New York Times

It asks students to question why they are not taking traditional subjects: "Are you trying to avoid a challenge?" It states that while there is no "set definition" of a "hard" or "soft" subject, so-called "hard" subjects are like the ones the top universities prefer and are more theoretical.

The Guardian

If you loved learning about art at sixth-form level, now's the time to pour one out for your boy Art History, the latest "soft" subject axed across the UK from 2018 onwards, in a move announced on Wednesday.

Vice

When I told one of my friends about the subjects I'm studying they said: "Those subjects sound interesting, but I wouldn't take even one soft subject – top universities always prefer students with science subjects".

The Guardian

On "Imperial Blaze" — produced largely by Stephen McGregor, known as Di Genius, one of Jamaica's most promising young talents — Sean Paul has almost completely abandoned his grimier side in favor of sung melodies and soft subject matter.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a soft subject", be aware of the potential negative connotations. Consider rephrasing if you want to avoid implying that a subject is less valuable or rigorous.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone shares the same view on what subjects are considered "soft". Perceptions vary widely based on individual experiences and cultural contexts. Instead of labeling a subject as such, focus on its specific attributes or challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a soft subject" functions as a noun phrase, where "soft" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "subject". It commonly serves to characterize a particular field of study as less rigorous or important compared to others. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase is often used in discussions about education and curriculum choices.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a soft subject" is commonly used to describe an academic discipline perceived as less rigorous, intellectually demanding, or practically valuable compared to others, particularly those in STEM fields. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct but often carries negative connotations. While frequently found in news and media contexts, its usage requires careful consideration due to the potential for misinterpretation or offense. When writing, be mindful of the implicit judgment embedded in the term and consider alternative phrasing to convey your meaning more neutrally or precisely. Phrases such as "a less demanding subject" or "an arts-based subject" can offer a more objective perspective, depending on the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subject of lesser importance

Directly states a lower value or significance.

a less demanding subject

Implies lower difficulty or workload compared to other subjects.

a subject lacking rigor

Focuses on the perceived lack of intellectual challenge.

an easier subject

Suggests reduced cognitive effort or complexity.

a less challenging subject

Similar to "an easier subject", emphasizing reduced difficulty.

a theoretically light subject

Highlights that the subject relies more on practice than theory.

a non-essential subject

Highlights the subject's perceived lack of importance or necessity.

a vocational subject

Shifts the focus to practical skills rather than academic theory, often seen as less prestigious.

a humanities subject

Emphasizes the study of human culture and society, often seen as less practical than sciences.

an arts-based subject

Highlights the creative and expressive nature of the subject, contrasting with more analytical fields.

FAQs

What does it mean when a subject is referred to as "a soft subject"?

Calling a subject "a soft subject" typically implies it's considered less rigorous, intellectually challenging, or important compared to other subjects, especially those in STEM fields.

What are some examples of subjects often labeled as "soft subjects"?

Subjects like art, drama, media studies, and some social sciences are often, though not always accurately, labeled as "soft subjects".

Why do some universities discriminate against students with "soft subject" backgrounds?

Some universities might prioritize students with traditional or STEM backgrounds because they believe these subjects better prepare students for demanding academic programs or specific career paths. However, this view is increasingly being challenged.

What can I say instead of "a soft subject" to avoid negative connotations?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a less demanding subject", "a non-essential subject", or "an arts-based subject" to describe the subject more neutrally.