actual matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actual matters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to real or significant issues or topics that require attention or consideration. Example: "In our discussion, we need to focus on the actual matters at hand rather than getting sidetracked by irrelevant details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Former association presidents will frustratingly regale listeners with stories of how unsuccessful they were engaging membership on actual matters of substance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Another strategic planner stated that, while it is a tool that registers actual questions, Kundskap nevertheless could not provide the kind of information about actual matters that she needs.

European Transport Research Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

There is something almost mystical about how much of Runyon resides in a show that contains so little of his actual matter.

The New Yorker

The interference effect, these optimists speculate, might be exploited to create holograms (that is, three-dimensional photographs) of actual matter, rather than mere images.

The Economist

These are quite sizeable lengths of time, so what evidence did you have on the likely impact on claimants that these extended sanction periods would have?" Later on, the conversation would turn to the actual matter of deprivation: what was the pathway between being sanctioned and getting hardship funds?

The Guardian - Opinion

This paper presents three case studies on the influence of soil pattern developed in geological time scales on actual matter transport: (i) solid phase transport in agricultural landscapes, (ii) solute transport from forested catchments, and (iii) gas fluxes from agricultural landscapes.

Geoderma

This treatment of the infinite by Crescas and the (metaphoric) opinion that God is the place of the world, a point Crescas considered as one of God's attributes, helped Spinoza build his original view that extension is also an attribute of God.[21] In Aristotle's opinion, all actual matter exists with certain properties like dimension, quality (cold, warm, humid and dry) and weight.

SEP

That's an actual matter of foreign policy!

Huffington Post

The mode of spread is an actual matter of debate.

Acta Neuropathologica

And yet, although I do have references to pop culture in my fiction writing, I'm just not particularly invested in it as actual subject matter.

The New Yorker

"Always I have relied on the actual subject matter because the eye sees so much more than the camera: half tones, shadows, minute changes in the color or light.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "actual matters" to emphasize the importance of focusing on real and substantive issues, especially in discussions or decision-making processes.

Common error

Avoid using "actual matters" in very casual conversations. It's generally more appropriate for formal discussions, reports, or analytical writing. In informal settings, simpler alternatives like "real stuff" or "important things" might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actual matters" functions as a noun phrase, where 'actual' modifies 'matters'. It refers to real or significant issues that are under consideration or require attention. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "actual matters" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to highlight real and significant issues. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. While versatile, it's more suited for formal contexts like news reporting or scientific discussions, where emphasizing the substance of the issues is important. While limited, Ludwig's examples and the analysis suggest that the phrase conveys a sense of importance and relevance, directing focus to what truly requires attention. Alternative phrases like "real concerns" or "substantive topics" can offer similar emphasis depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

real concerns

Emphasizes the genuineness and significance of the issues.

genuine issues

Highlights the authenticity and importance of the matters.

substantive topics

Focuses on the weighty and significant nature of the subjects.

important subjects

Highlights the significance and relevance of the matters.

critical issues

Stresses the urgency and importance of the matters.

pressing concerns

Indicates the urgent and demanding nature of the matters.

key considerations

Highlights the essential elements to take into account.

primary points

Focuses on the most important aspects of the discussion.

core subjects

Emphasizes the fundamental and central nature of the topics.

relevant details

Focuses on the specific and applicable information.

FAQs

How can I use "actual matters" in a sentence?

You can use "actual matters" to emphasize the need to focus on genuine and substantive issues. For example: "Let's set aside the trivial details and concentrate on the "real concerns"".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "actual matters"?

Synonyms include "genuine issues", "substantive topics", and "important subjects". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "actual matters" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "actual matters" is relatively formal. In casual conversation, consider using alternatives like "real stuff" or "important things".

What is the difference between "actual matters" and "potential matters"?

"Actual matters" refer to issues that are currently happening or being considered, while "potential matters" refer to issues that might arise in the future but are not yet certain.