greater matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "greater matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that is of more significance or importance than another. Example: "In the grand scheme of things, the greater matter at hand is the well-being of our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

There was the greater matter of the 1960 White House victory of brother Jack, widely believed (not least by Nixon) to have been stolen in Illinois ballot-rigging through the aegis of the late Chicago mayor and fellow Irish politico Richard Daley.

Independent

Lack of adherence to chronic cardiovascular treatments is an even greater matter of concern.

Diabetes Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But he argued that there were even greater matters at stake in the election, starting with which party would better protect the nation from terrorism.

The New York Times

"It is a great matter of concern.

The New York Times

The "King's Great Matter", The Englishing of England.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Then in the next sentence he concludes, "It is no great matter".

The New York Times

Six hours and a single sword swipe, and the king's Great Matter is finally resolved.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The prelude to the "Great Matter" – English independence – is the bill.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It emphasises human ingenuity and resourcefulness in the great matter of killing or avoiding being killed.

The Guardian - Books

From 1527 Henry pursued what became known as "the King's great matter": his divorce from Catherine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the implications of Bonnard's art (and, indeed, of painting as such) for the cinema are of great matter.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "greater matter", ensure the context clearly establishes a comparison to a lesser issue. Using it effectively adds weight and significance to your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "greater matter" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound out of place if not used carefully. Use a more straightforward alternative if the context doesn't require emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greater matter" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It emphasizes the significance or importance of a particular issue or topic. As supported by Ludwig AI, its role is to highlight something of substantial consequence.

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

In summary, "greater matter" is a phrase used to denote something of considerable importance or significance, often in comparison to something less critical. As Ludwig AI points out, it is considered grammatically correct and fits best in formal or neutral contexts, such as news articles or scientific papers. While not overly frequent, its presence in reliable sources like The New York Times and Diabetes Care confirms its validity in conveying serious and impactful subjects. When choosing alternatives, consider phrases that emphasize significance or importance, such as "more significant issue" or "primary concern", while keeping the intended formality in mind.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more significant issue

Focuses on the level of significance of the issue.

more important consideration

Highlights the importance of the consideration.

primary concern

Emphasizes that the matter is the main concern.

chief concern

Highlights the main concern of the situation.

principal issue

Emphasizes the issue being the main one.

larger concern

Emphasizes the size and scope of the concern.

weightier matter

Emphasizes the seriousness and importance of the matter.

more pressing issue

Highlights the urgency of the issue.

more critical matter

Highlights the importance of the matter and the potential negative consequences.

overriding concern

Emphasizes that the concern takes precedence over others.

FAQs

How can I use "greater matter" in a sentence?

You can use "greater matter" to refer to something of more significance. For instance, "While the details are important, the "greater matter" is ensuring everyone's safety."

What's a good alternative to "greater matter"?

Alternatives include "more significant issue", "primary concern", or "more important consideration", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "greater matter" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "greater matter" is more suitable for formal writing or when emphasizing the importance of something. In informal contexts, simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "greater matter" and "important issue"?

"Greater matter" often implies a hierarchical comparison, suggesting it's more important than something else already mentioned. "Important issue" is a general term for something significant, without necessarily implying a direct comparison.