intense subject matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intense subject matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe topics that are emotionally charged, complex, or difficult to discuss, often found in literature, film, or academic discussions. Example: "The documentary tackled intense subject matter, exploring the psychological effects of war on veterans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In my experience, only Javanese Bedhaya — another court form — has the same expressive contrast between intense subject matter and formal containment.

The New York Times - Arts

Kenneth Andrew Williams is a well rounded writer/director known for his ability to tackle dark and intense subject matter.

Huffington Post

The laughter that sprouts up at times during the screening is less of the awkward one its intense subject matter may have elicit during its most shocking moments, but one of nostalgia, familiarity, and shared experience.

Vice

"Devin had written it for a friend who lost his father through suicide; quite an intense subject matter," says Eales. "I tried to look at it from the softer angle the outlook rather than what happened.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Red Angel" features terrifying battle scenes and a cholera epidemic that spreads from a base's "comfort women," but, despite the intense and lurid subject matter, Masumura's style remains contemplative and impassive, as if he were stunned but powerless before the chaos and horror of the misguided war.

The New Yorker

I ask because I've never seen you this intense about the subject matter of a movie before.

Huffington Post

Back in the 1870s, when Impressionism was gathering steam, Normandy, as a place of intense light and naturalistic subject matter, was the painters' resort of choice.

Independent

We had a great time, but the subject matter is intense.

Huffington Post

I mean, the subject matter is obviously intense.

The Guardian - Film

The subject matter, though, is intense and the novel stands as an important part of American literature.

The Guardian - Books

"The subject matter is so intense, and so dark, that if you made it like a Dogme movie it would basically be unwatchable," says Aronofsky.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "intense subject matter", ensure that the context clearly indicates the source or reason for the intensity (e.g., emotional impact, complexity, ethical considerations).

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "intense subject matter" as a blanket description. Be specific about what makes the subject matter intense. For instance, instead of saying "The movie deals with intense subject matter", specify "The movie deals with the intense subject matter of childhood trauma".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intense subject matter" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "intense" modifies the noun "subject matter". It's used to describe a topic that is deeply emotional, complex, or sensitive. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Arts

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "intense subject matter" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe topics that are emotionally charged, complex, or sensitive. While not overly common, it appears in a variety of contexts, particularly news, media, and the arts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context to clarify the specific nature of the intensity. Consider alternative phrases like "heavy subject matter" or "challenging subject matter" to refine your meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heavy subject matter

Replaces "intense" with "heavy", indicating seriousness and emotional weight without necessarily implying complexity.

challenging subject matter

Emphasizes the demanding or thought-provoking nature of the subject.

emotionally charged subject

Directly addresses the emotional impact the subject has on people.

difficult topic

Focuses on the challenging nature of the topic, rather than the emotional intensity.

sensitive topic

Indicates that the subject requires careful handling due to its potential to cause emotional distress.

complex issue

Highlights the intricate and multifaceted aspects of the subject.

provocative theme

Highlights the subject's capacity to elicit strong reactions or debate.

serious issue

Stresses the importance and gravity of the subject.

controversial subject

Indicates the subject is likely to cause disagreement or public debate.

deep topic

Suggests a subject that requires significant thought and consideration.

FAQs

What does "intense subject matter" mean?

"Intense subject matter" refers to topics that are emotionally charged, deeply complex, or highly sensitive, often provoking strong reactions or requiring careful handling.

What can I say instead of "intense subject matter"?

You can use alternatives like "heavy subject matter", "challenging subject matter", or "emotionally charged subject" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "intense subject matter" in academic writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, but ensure that the intensity is justified and explained. Provide context and analysis to support the claim that the subject matter is indeed "intense".

What makes a subject matter considered "intense"?

A subject matter may be considered "intense" if it evokes strong emotional responses, deals with complex ethical dilemmas, or explores deeply personal or traumatic experiences.