a topic that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a topic that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing or discussing a specific subject or theme in a sentence. Example: "The article explores a topic that is often overlooked in modern discussions about climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a topic that draws academic attention.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It's a topic that remains the preserve of the SPD".

The Guardian

"It wasn't a topic that was ever discussed.

The Guardian - Film

It was not a topic that was discussed.

The Guardian

It's a topic that makes Yahya's voice turn steely.

The Guardian - Music

It's a topic that puts David in his element.

The Guardian

It is still a topic that Kuffour treats with trepidation.

The Guardian - Sport

Violence against women was a topic that frequently cropped up.

Independent

It's a topic that roils the collective gut.

The New York Times - Books

This is a topic that comes up often on Motherlode.

The New York Times

It has been a topic that attracts growing interests.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a new section or argument, use "a topic that" to clearly signal the subject matter to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a topic that" in overly simple sentences where a more direct construction would be clearer and more concise. For example, instead of "This is a topic that is important", consider "This topic is important."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a topic that" functions as a relative clause introducer, linking a noun phrase ("a topic") to a relative clause that provides more information or specifies the topic. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where it precedes a verb and clause further elaborating on the topic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

25%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a topic that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a subject for discussion. Ludwig AI confirms that it functions as a relative clause introducer, commonly found in neutral and informative contexts such as news articles, scientific papers, and wiki pages. While grammatically correct and widely used, it is important to use the phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse in simple sentences where more direct constructions would be clearer. Consider alternatives like "a subject that" or "an issue that" for variety and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subject which

Uses "which" instead of "that" as the relative pronoun, slightly more formal.

an issue that

Replaces "topic" with "issue", framing the subject as a problem or concern.

a theme that

Substitutes "topic" with "theme", emphasizing a recurring idea or motif.

a matter that

Replaces "topic" with "matter", often suggesting something of importance or concern.

a point that

Substitutes "topic" with "point", focusing on a specific idea or argument.

a question that

Replaces "topic" with "question", framing the subject as something to be investigated or debated.

something that

More general; refers to a thing or idea without specifying it as a topic.

a concept that

Replaces "topic" with "concept", suitable when referring to abstract or theoretical subjects.

an area that

Substitutes "topic" with "area", suggesting a field or domain of discussion.

a field that

Replaces "topic" with "field", suitable for academic or professional disciplines.

FAQs

How can I use "a topic that" in a sentence?

Use "a topic that" to introduce a subject you are about to discuss or elaborate on. For example, "Climate change is "a topic that" requires immediate attention".

What are some alternatives to "a topic that"?

You can use alternatives like "a subject that", "an issue that", or "a theme that" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "which" or "that" after "a topic"?

While both are grammatically acceptable, "that" is generally preferred in restrictive clauses (clauses that are essential to the meaning of the sentence), while "which" is used in non-restrictive clauses (clauses that add extra information). For example, "This is "a topic that" is often debated" (restrictive) versus "This is "a topic, which" is often debated" (non-restrictive).

How can I make my writing more concise when using "a topic that"?

Sometimes you can rephrase the sentence to eliminate ""a topic that"" altogether. For example, instead of "This is "a topic that" I find interesting", you could say "I find this topic interesting."