a subtle matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or topic that requires careful consideration or is not immediately obvious. Example: "The negotiation was a subtle matter, requiring both parties to navigate their interests delicately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The use of performance-enhancing drugs, especially in the nineties, was hardly a subtle matter.

The New Yorker

Planets move around the Sun because they are swept around by whirlpools of a subtle matter filling all space.

Britannica

When Mr. de Botton explains why an old building on Manchester Square in London pleases and the new one next to it, in the same style, does not (it's a subtle matter of the window treatment), a side-by-side photograph at the bottom of the page provides the conclusive, damning evidence.

The New York Times - Books

It has also been observed [20] for the Wilson Cowan model that this transition is a subtle matter: Using a steep sigmoid firing rate function instead of the Heaviside mapping can lead to significant changes in a Hopf bifurcation point.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

Thus, karma is a subtle matter surrounding the consciousness of a soul.

Wikipedia

It's a subtle matter, but it can mean the difference between a decent forgery and one that's easy to call out as fake.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But if some people survive, the answer is a subtler matter.

BBC

(A more subtle matter is whether they are acceptable in Hilbert's finitary mathematics.

SEP

Karma not only encompasses the causality of transmigration, but is also conceived of as an extremely subtle matter, which infiltrates the soul obscuring its natural, transparent and pure qualities.

Wikipedia

The Samkhya school assumes the existence of two bodies, a temporal body and a body of "subtle" matter that persists after biological death.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's usually a much more subtle matter of time and place".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "a subtle matter" with a brief explanation or example that illustrates the specific subtlety involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle matter" without clarifying the specific nuance or complexity you are referring to. The phrase can sound vague if not accompanied by enough detail to illustrate the subtlety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle matter" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes something that requires careful consideration due to its nuanced or intricate nature, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

22%

Less common in

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a subtle matter" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that describes something requiring careful consideration due to its nuanced nature. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It's most commonly found in news and media, science, and encyclopedia sources. To use the phrase effectively, provide sufficient context to clarify the subtlety you are referring to. While suitable for formal writing, avoid overuse without adequate explanation. Alternatives include "a delicate issue" or "a nuanced point", each offering a slightly different emphasis. By understanding these nuances, you can use "a subtle matter" with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate issue

Emphasizes the sensitivity and potential for causing offense or difficulty.

a nuanced point

Highlights the presence of fine distinctions and complexities.

a complex situation

Indicates the involvement of many interconnected factors.

a tricky problem

Focuses on the difficulty and need for careful handling.

a fine distinction

Points to a very small but significant difference.

a sensitive subject

Indicates the potential for emotional or ethical concerns.

a sophisticated argument

Implies a high level of intellectual complexity and refinement.

a carefully considered aspect

Highlights the thoroughness and thoughtfulness involved.

a discriminating detail

Focuses on the importance of being able to recognize and appreciate small differences.

a deep question

Highlights the complexity and profoundness of the topic.

FAQs

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

You can use "a subtle matter" to describe a situation or topic that requires careful consideration. For example, "Negotiating the contract was "a subtle matter", requiring careful attention to detail".

What phrases are similar to "a subtle matter"?

Similar phrases include "a delicate issue", "a nuanced point", or "a complex situation". The choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "a subtle matter" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a subtle matter" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a sense of sophistication and precision, making it appropriate for academic papers, business reports, and other professional contexts.

What makes something "a subtle matter"?

Something is "a subtle matter" when it involves nuances, complexities, or fine distinctions that are not immediately apparent. It requires careful consideration and attention to detail to fully understand or resolve.