important matter

USAGE SUMMARY

'important matter' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an issue or topic that is of great importance or relevance. For example, "We must discuss this important matter as soon as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Big, important matter like this . . .

The New Yorker

This is an important matter".

The New York Times - Arts

Which raises an important matter.

The New York Times

There is an extremely important matter".

The New York Times

This is an important matter of principle.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now we come to an important matter.

The New York Times

But we disagree on one important matter.

The New York Times

It's also an important matter of trust.

The Guardian

"Setting the record straight is an important matter.

The New York Times

"Preserving G.E.D. is a really critically important matter," she said.

The New York Times

And there was also the important matter of job security.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "important matter" to signal that the discussion requires careful consideration and should not be dismissed lightly.

Common error

While "important matter" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Opt for more relatable language to communicate importance, like "big deal" or "serious thing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "important matter" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence, or following a preposition. Ludwig shows that it identifies a subject needing consideration or action, and it’s deemed perfectly correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "important matter" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to highlight the significance of a topic or issue. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news, scientific, and formal business settings. While it conveys a sense of seriousness, overuse in informal conversations should be avoided for more relatable language. Alternative phrases like "significant issue" or "crucial point" can provide nuanced variations of meaning. The phrase’s consistent and authoritative usage makes it a reliable choice in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant issue

Focuses on the importance of the problem itself.

crucial point

Highlights the decisiveness and critical nature of the matter.

key concern

Emphasizes worry and the need for attention.

vital question

Stresses the necessity of finding an answer.

pressing problem

Indicates urgency and the need for immediate action.

serious affair

Highlights the gravity and potential consequences of the matter.

noteworthy item

Underlines something deserving attention or to be written down

major subject

Suggests extensive analysis

critical aspect

Focuses on the importance of something as a part of a whole

relevant issue

Highlights the pertinence of an issue to a specific context

FAQs

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

You can use "important matter" to introduce a topic that requires careful consideration, like "The board needs to discuss this "important matter" before making a decision".

What are some alternatives to "important matter"?

Alternatives include "significant issue", "crucial point", or "key concern", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "important matter" in formal writing?

Yes, "important matter" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a sense of seriousness and significance appropriate for professional and academic contexts.

What's the difference between "important matter" and "urgent matter"?

"Important matter" refers to the significance of an issue, while "urgent matter" implies that something needs immediate attention. An urgent matter might also be important, but not always.