a weighty subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a weighty subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that is serious, significant, or requires careful consideration. Example: "The conference will focus on a weighty subject: the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

For a film about a weighty subject, "My Sister's Keeper," tomorrow night's offering on CBS, feels feather light.

The New York Times - Arts

By Hendrik Hertzberg October 9, 2012 Tomorrow evening, down at N.Y.U., you can catch a free screening of "Electoral Dysfunction," a lighthearted look at a weighty subject.

The New Yorker

Tomorrow evening, down at N.Y.U., you can catch a free screening of "Electoral Dysfunction," a lighthearted look at a weighty subject.

The New Yorker

But the outcome was much more a matter of Obama losing than of Romney winning — because it… One further addition to my list of the horrors and wonders (and there are wonders! plenty of them!) of the once and possibly future Republic… Tomorrow evening, down at N.Y.U., you can catch a free screening of "Electoral Dysfunction," a lighthearted look at a weighty subject.

The New Yorker

Froggatt also defended the scenes, telling BBC Breakfast she was "proud" that the show could tackle such a weighty subject.

BBC

Joanne Froggatt, who plays Anna May Bates, has also defended the plotline, saying she was "proud" the show could tackle such a weighty subject.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

This time around, the news site is tackling a weightier subject ― press freedom ― though in a playful manner.

Huffington Post

While most of the commentary sent to [email protected] focuses on the big-item issues of the day (a possible military strike on Syria drew the most letters for the second week in a row), occasionally a less weighty subject will prompt impassioned responses.

Los Angeles Times

For a film about such a solemn and weighty subject, "Footnote" has a lot of amusing moments.

The New York Times

It's a weighty issue.

The Guardian - Sport

For such a solemn and weighty subject, "Footnote" has a lot of humor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a weighty subject" to introduce a topic that demands serious consideration and thoughtful discussion. It signals to the audience that the issue is not trivial.

Common error

Avoid using "a weighty subject" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in those settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "serious topic" or "important issue".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a weighty subject" functions as a noun phrase that serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a topic of significant importance or seriousness, as supported by Ludwig's examples, such as discussions of mental illness or press freedom.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a weighty subject" is a phrase used to describe a topic that is serious, significant, and requires careful consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and most appropriate for formal or neutral contexts such as news articles, academic discussions, or professional communications. While it effectively signals the importance of the topic, overuse in casual settings should be avoided. Synonyms include "a serious matter" or "an important topic". Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various reputable sources, indicating its acceptance and clarity in conveying serious issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a serious matter

Focuses on the gravity and potential consequences of the issue.

an important topic

Emphasizes the significance and relevance of the subject.

a significant issue

Highlights the scale and impact of the subject.

a grave concern

Stresses the alarming or troubling nature of the subject.

a critical problem

Underlines the urgency and necessity of addressing the issue.

a pressing matter

Indicates the immediacy and importance of dealing with the subject.

a profound theme

Emphasizes the depth and complexity of the subject.

a consequential topic

Highlights the potential long-term effects and outcomes of the subject.

a substantial issue

Focuses on the magnitude and importance of the subject.

a considerable matter

Stresses the significance and degree of importance of the subject.

FAQs

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

You can use "a weighty subject" to refer to a topic that is serious and significant. For example: "The professor's lecture addressed "a weighty subject", the future of climate change policies."

What are some synonyms for "a weighty subject"?

Alternatives to "a weighty subject" include "a serious matter", "an important topic", or "a significant issue", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a weighty subject"?

It's appropriate to use "a weighty subject" when discussing topics that are complex, important, and require careful consideration, particularly in formal writing or academic discussions. It's not suitable for casual conversations.

Is "weighty subject" formal?

Yes, the phrase "weighty subject" is considered relatively formal. It is more appropriate for academic, professional, or news contexts than for casual conversation.