does it matter that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does it matter that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when questioning the significance or importance of a particular issue or detail. Example: "Does it matter that we missed the deadline if the project is still on track?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Does it matter that something is unfinished?

The New Yorker

Does it matter that they are unelected?

The Guardian - Opinion

Does it matter that Hefce is doomed?

The Guardian

Does it matter that she was sexy?

The New Yorker

But does it matter that much?

The New York Times - Sports

Does it matter that Ofili is innocent of sacrilege?

The New Yorker

Does it matter that this will not happen?

The Economist

Still less does it matter that they are rarely successful.

The Economist

Does it matter that audiences don't always get the joke?

The New York Times

Does it matter that good writers are bad people?

The New Yorker

Does it matter that the figure hasn't actually been carved?

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "does it matter that" with a specific clause that you want to evaluate the importance of.

Common error

Avoid using "does it matter that" when you're simply seeking information rather than questioning significance. For instance, instead of "Does it matter that the report is due tomorrow?" (when you just need to know the due date), ask "Is the report due tomorrow?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does it matter that" functions as an interrogative phrase used to question the significance or relevance of a particular detail or circumstance. It challenges assumptions and invites a critical evaluation of the issue at hand. As Ludwig indicates, it is a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "does it matter that" is a versatile interrogative tool for challenging assumptions and prompting critical analysis. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. It effectively invites a reevaluation of a situation, questioning whether a detail holds true significance. Frequently found in news, media, and scientific contexts, its register remains largely neutral, making it suitable for various discussions. When employing this phrase, be mindful of the scope of inquiry to ensure you're challenging assumptions rather than simply seeking information. Alternatives such as "is it significant that" and "is it important that" can refine the tone, while understanding the context ensures its optimal usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is it significant that

Focuses on the importance or consequence of something.

Is it relevant that

Highlights the pertinence or applicability of a fact.

Is it important that

Emphasizes the necessity or value of something.

Does it make a difference that

Questions whether something affects the outcome.

Does it have implications that

Focuses on potential consequences or effects.

Is there any value in the fact that

Highlights the potential gain or benefit in something.

What is the effect of

Examines the impact or result of something.

Why is it crucial that

Underscores the essential nature of something.

What are the ramifications if

Focuses on the broader consequences of a situation.

To what extent is it important that

Evaluates the degree of importance or significance.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "does it matter that" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is it significant that", "is it relevant that", or "to what extent is it important that".

When is it appropriate to use "does it matter that" in writing?

Use "does it matter that" when you want to question the assumed importance or relevance of a particular detail or circumstance. It's suitable for discussions, essays, or analytical pieces where you challenge underlying assumptions.

What's the difference between "does it matter that" and "is it important that"?

While both phrases question significance, "does it matter that" often implies a stronger challenge to the perceived importance, whereas "is it important that" is a more direct inquiry into relevance.

Can "does it matter that" be used in a negative context?

Yes, "does it matter that" can be used to suggest that something's lack of importance is problematic. For example, "Does it matter that funding has been cut?" implies concern about the cuts.