a timely subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a timely subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a topic that is relevant or appropriate for the current time or situation. Example: "The conference will focus on a timely subject: the impact of climate change on global economies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It's a timely subject.

The Guardian - Books

"The Appeal" is John Grisham's handy primer on a timely subject: how to rig an election.

The New York Times - Books

Murder, of course, is always a timely subject in the publishing business, and there's plenty of it here.

The New York Times - Books

Often he wrote to order for publishers rushing a book into print on a timely subject, like the findings of the sex researchers William Masters and Virginia E. Johnson.

The New York Times - Books

(The sitcom is, in part, an examination of the pleasures and pitfalls of multiple identity; in an era of proliferating screen names and virtual cliques, that seems like a timely subject).

The New York Times - Arts

He chose a timely subject for the play, "The Elephant in the Room"; it's about a photojournalist who returns home after being wounded while covering a war and finds her world, and her worldview, altered.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It's a sad fact of humanity that abuse in the church is a perennially timely subject, but Tom Keneally's latest novel seems to be particularly well timed with the ongoing royal commission into institutional responses to child sexual abuse.

The Guardian - Books

Instead, today I want to take an upbeat and problem-solving look at a very timely subject that all of us have to deal with and may be feeling a bit confused about, and that is health care.

The New Yorker

It's a great, timely subject for downtown exploration.

The New York Times - Arts

"I also think this is a very timely subject about how bad guys get into power and how it affects the rest of the world," he said.

The New York Times

Given current developments in the European Community and the UK, such as the enaction of the Human Rights Act of 1998 in October 2000 and the increasing relevance of supranational standards to international affairs and national legal orders, the Europeanization of national legal systems is a very timely subject.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a timely subject" to frame discussions, presentations, or articles that address current events or emerging trends, ensuring your content remains impactful and relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "a timely subject" merely as a placeholder. Ensure the subject matter is genuinely relevant and that you articulate its importance within the current context to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a timely subject" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies and characterizes a topic as being relevant and important in the current context. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a timely subject" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for introducing a topic that is relevant and important in the present context. Ludwig's analysis of various sources indicates that it is most commonly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science, lending itself to a neutral register suitable for professional discussions. While not extremely frequent, its usage in reputable publications underscores its validity. When employing this phrase, ensure the subject matter is genuinely relevant and that you clearly articulate its importance to enhance engagement and credibility. Remember there are some alternative formulations such as "a relevant topic", "a topical issue", and "a pressing matter".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a relevant topic

Focuses on the pertinence of the subject to the current discussion or situation. Similarity Score: 90

a topical issue

Highlights the subject's prominence in current news and discussions. Similarity Score: 88

a pressing matter

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the subject at hand. Similarity Score: 85

a current theme

Suggests the subject is a recurring motif or idea in recent events or discussions. Similarity Score: 82

a pertinent question

Indicates the subject is a key query or inquiry relevant to the present situation. Similarity Score: 80

a significant concern

Draws attention to the importance and potential impact of the subject. Similarity Score: 78

a noteworthy issue

Indicates the subject is deserving of attention and consideration. Similarity Score: 75

a contemporary theme

Focuses on how the subject matter is related to current times and trends. Similarity Score: 72

a well-timed topic

Highlights the fact that the subject matter is being addressed at the most appropriate moment. Similarity Score: 70

an immediate concern

Underlines the need to address the subject promptly due to its immediate relevance. Similarity Score: 68

FAQs

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

You can use "a timely subject" to introduce a topic that's relevant and important at the moment. For instance, "The conference will address "a timely subject": the future of remote work".

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

You can use alternatives like "a relevant topic", "a topical issue", or "a pressing matter" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a timely subject" or "a relevant subject"?

Both "a timely subject" and "a relevant subject" are correct, but "a timely subject" specifically emphasizes the importance of the subject in the context of the present time, while "relevant subject" simply means the subject is related or applicable to the situation.

What's the difference between "a timely subject" and "a popular subject"?

"A timely subject" refers to a topic that is important and relevant due to current events or trends. In contrast, "a popular subject" simply means a topic that many people are interested in, regardless of its immediate relevance. They are similar because they both attract public interest, but for different reasons.