as matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as matters" is not a standard expression in written English and may be unclear without additional context.
It could potentially be used in legal or formal contexts to refer to the state of affairs or circumstances, but it is not commonly used. Example: "As matters currently stand, we will need to reassess our strategy moving forward."

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

As matters stand, the crisis goes on.

The Economist

Expedients once unthinkable are now considered as matters of fact.

The Guardian - Opinion

As matters stand today, that's a very big "if".

The Guardian

I watched from afar as matters grew worse.

The Guardian

The movie's moral arguments are framed less as matters of medicine than of religious faith.

The New Yorker

Much that I once held as matters of conscience is now just custom or culture.

The New York Times

As matters currently stand, that is a duty which our politicians cannot discharge.

The Economist

As matters turned out, many of his dreams differed but slightly from those of the Hohenstaufens.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rules buttressed by OIRA review are stronger as matters of policy and of judicial review.

The New York Times

As matters turned out they did not contribute very much to the exploration of Nubia.

The New Yorker

Norwich says little about theology and treats doctrinal disputes as matters of diplomacy.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as matters" to introduce a statement about the current situation, especially when leading into a consequence or decision. For example, "As matters stand, we need to reassess our approach."

Common error

Avoid using "as matters" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "as things are" or "the way things are" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as matters" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a clause that describes the existing situation or state. It typically sets the stage for a subsequent statement, indicating that what follows is contingent upon the current circumstances. Ludwig shows its use in diverse contexts, indicating adaptability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as matters" is a prepositional phrase used to introduce a statement about the current state of affairs. While the expression is widely used and grammatically sound, it tends towards a more formal tone. As shown by Ludwig, it frequently appears in news and media, and encyclopedic texts. Therefore, consider the context when using this phrase, opting for simpler alternatives like "as things stand" in more informal situations. According to Ludwig AI analysis, the phrase is acceptable and very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as things stand

This alternative maintains a similar meaning but uses more common and straightforward language.

as things are

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the current situation.

as it now stands

This variation adds emphasis on the present moment, highlighting the current condition.

in the current situation

This phrase provides a more descriptive and less idiomatic way to refer to the present circumstances.

given the present state of affairs

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the overall condition of things.

the way things are

This phrase highlights the reality of the current situation, often implying a sense of acceptance or resignation.

under the circumstances

This emphasizes the conditions influencing the current state.

considering the situation

This phrase focuses on taking the circumstances into account.

in light of recent events

This option is suitable when referring to a current state that has been influenced by recent occurrences.

based on current developments

This phrase emphasizes the evolving nature of the situation and its dependence on recent progress or changes.

FAQs

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

You can use "as matters" to describe the current state or circumstances before presenting a consequence or observation. For example: "As matters stand, we need to adjust our strategy."

What are some alternatives to "as matters"?

Alternatives include "as things stand", "in the current situation", or "the way things are", each offering a slightly different nuance depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "as matters" in writing?

While grammatically correct, "as matters" is best suited for formal or professional writing. In more casual contexts, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "as matters" and "as things stand"?

While similar in meaning, "as matters" can sound slightly more formal and detached than "as things stand", which is generally considered more conversational.