is something the matter

USAGE SUMMARY

'Is something the matter?' is a correct and usable sentence in written English.
You can use it when asking someone if there is a problem or if anything is wrong. Example: "Is something the matter? You seem to be upset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He wonders if there is something the matter with him, that he doesn't miss any of these thing He has an appointment with a psychiatrist the next day.

The New Yorker

Is something the matter?

The New York Times

"Is something the matter?" he heard Brenda ask the goddaughter.

The New Yorker

"Is something the matter?" she asked, because she'd heard his tone.

The New Yorker

At the beginning of the novel, one of the heroes, Runciter, tries to connect with his "passed" wife, Ella: "Is something the matter, Mr. Runciter?" the von Vogelsang person said, observing him as he floundered about.

The New Yorker

Is something the matter, my dear?

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

When there was something the matter, he would come talk to me".

The New York Times

"There must be something the matter with me," he recalls thinking.

The New York Times

1], about the Suffolk County Department of Social Services placing families in motels in Southampton at a cost of between $4,000 and $5,000 per month: There must be something the matter with my math.

The New York Times

He was experiencing difficulty with his cigarette, failing to light it although he struck two matches, and Father Meade wondered if there was something the matter with his hands the way he couldn't keep them steady.

The New Yorker

Many political gatekeepers still cling to myths about how there's something "the matter with Kansas," how workers are too backward to know what's best for themselves politically.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Is something the matter?" when you perceive a change in someone's demeanor or suspect they might be facing a difficulty. It's a polite way to offer concern.

Common error

Avoid using "Is something the matter?" in situations where directness is preferred. In urgent situations, a more explicit question might be necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Is something the matter?" functions as an interrogative clause, used to inquire about a potential problem or issue. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and serves to express concern. Examples show its use in various conversational settings.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

14%

Science

36%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Is something the matter?" is a grammatically sound and polite interrogative phrase used to inquire about potential issues or express concern. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid sentence structure in English. While less direct than phrases like "What's wrong"?, it offers a considerate way to invite someone to share their troubles. Its usage is more common in news media and general conversation, signaling a neutral to slightly formal register. Remember to use this phrase when you perceive a change in someone's demeanor and want to offer support, and avoid it in situations requiring immediate directness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is anything the matter?

Similar to the original phrase but uses "anything" instead of "something".

Is there a problem?

Focuses directly on the existence of an issue.

What's the problem?

Directly asks for the issue or difficulty.

What's wrong?

A more direct and common way to ask if someone is experiencing an issue.

Are you alright?

Asks about someone's well-being, implying concern.

Is everything okay?

Inquires about the overall state of affairs, suggesting a potential issue.

What's the trouble?

Suggests that there is a specific problem or difficulty.

Do you need help?

Offers assistance, implying that help might be needed.

What's bothering you?

Inquires about what is causing someone distress.

Is there anything I can do?

Offers assistance and support, implying a concern about someone's well-being.

FAQs

How can I use "Is something the matter?" in a sentence?

You can use "Is something the matter?" when you notice someone seems troubled. For example, "You've been quiet all day. "Is something the matter"?"

What are some alternatives to "Is something the matter?"?

Alternatives include "What's wrong"?, "Are you alright"?, or "Is there a problem"?, depending on the context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "Is something the matter?"?

It's appropriate when you observe a change in someone's behavior or suspect they might be experiencing a problem. It shows concern and invites them to share if they wish.

Is "Is something the matter?" more or less formal than "What's wrong?"?

"Is something the matter?" is generally considered more polite and slightly more formal than "What's wrong"?, which is more direct.