about that subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about that subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific topic or matter that has been previously mentioned or is being discussed. Example: "I would like to share my thoughts about that subject during the meeting tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What interested you about that subject?

The Guardian - Books

Even if they like to talk about that subject themselves.

The New York Times

But I'll have more to add about that subject in a later post.

The New Yorker

Turning back to the news media, he said, "We don't care about that subject".

The New York Times

"You can understand a little bit more what's happening about that subject laughing about it".

The New York Times

I may have missed hearing about that subject, but I doubt it came up.

The New York Times

"I don't want to even talk about that subject... Of course not.

The Guardian - Music

(She takes antidepressants, and Soda, on the album, is about that subject).

The Guardian - Music

What made you think a musical about that subject was a good idea?

The Guardian

I wrote The Herd because I felt I had something to say about that subject matter.

The Guardian

I think a large part of Obama's memoir, "Dreams from My Father," is precisely about that subject.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "about that subject" when you want to directly refer back to a specific topic that has already been clearly established in the conversation or text.

Common error

Avoid using "about that subject" if the subject hasn't been clearly defined. This can lead to confusion. Always ensure the reference is unambiguous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about that subject" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by specifying the topic or matter being referred to. Ludwig's examples confirm its role in connecting ideas to a previously mentioned subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "about that subject" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to reference a previously mentioned topic. According to Ludwig, it is deemed correct for use in written English, serving primarily to connect ideas or signal a return to a previous point in a conversation or text. Its neutral tone makes it adaptable to various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific domains. When clarity and direct reference are needed, "about that subject" provides an effective means of linking ideas. For more formal situations, consider alternatives like "regarding that topic" or "pertaining to that matter".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding that topic

Changes the preposition for a more formal tone.

concerning that issue

Substitutes "subject" with "issue" for a slight shift in emphasis.

pertaining to that matter

Employs more formal vocabulary.

on that topic

Uses a simpler preposition.

with respect to that subject

Introduces a formal tone.

in relation to that theme

Replaces "subject" with "theme", adding a nuanced perspective.

in connection with that matter

Emphasizes a linked relationship.

relative to that point

Focuses on a specific point within the broader subject.

as regards that topic

Offers a slightly archaic alternative.

anent that issue

Uses a less common, more formal preposition to introduce the topic.

FAQs

How can I use "about that subject" in a sentence?

You can use "about that subject" to refer back to a topic previously discussed, for example, "I'd like to add something "concerning that issue" /s/about+that+subject." Ensure the subject is clear from the context.

What phrases are similar to "about that subject"?

Similar phrases include "regarding that topic", "concerning that issue", or "pertaining to that matter". The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and specific nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "about that subject" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "about that subject" is generally more appropriate for informal or neutral contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "with respect to that subject" or "pertaining to that matter".

What's the difference between "about that subject" and "on that topic"?

"About that subject" and "on that topic" are often interchangeable. However, "about that subject" may imply a broader scope, while "on that topic" can suggest a more focused discussion.