key subject

USAGE SUMMARY

"key subject" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to the main topic or focus of a sentence, paragraph, or piece of writing. Example: In this essay, the key subject is the impact of technology on modern society.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It gets them talking around a key subject and it's versatile, fun and cheap".

The Guardian

Since such matters are a key subject of the poem, the provision of informative notes is essential.

The New Yorker

Corrosive, hypocritical western policy is one key subject that is constantly raised in conversations across the Middle East.

The Guardian - Opinion

A major problem is the low number of girls at school who study physics, a key subject for careers in engineering and construction.

The Guardian - Business

Big-city systems are already feeling the pinch, finding it impossible to hire certified teachers in key subject areas like math, science and bilingual instruction.

The New York Times

As the current retrospective of his work at Media Space in London shows, the late Tony Ray-Jones was a pioneer of black-and-white documentary photography and his key subject matter was the English at leisure.

The Guardian - Books

He went on to Bryanston school, Dorset, and Bristol University, where, although his key subject at A-level had been classics, he took a degree in philosophy and economics.

The Guardian

This "cloning" is happening because all GCSEs and A-levels are now marked by measuring the degree to which pupils meet the relevant assessment objectives (AOs); these are essentially the key subject skills.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's of particular concern when the filmmaker's key subject is his country's politics but it's noteworthy that half of "Summer Palace" takes place in Europe and also has as much to say about European politics as about those of China.

The New Yorker

The report will also warn that teacher recruitment is "a very real problem across the country" with shortages being most acute in key subject areas like science, technology and maths.

Independent

Other collectors said to own Gursky in depth are Eli Broad in Los Angeles, Mitchell Rales in Washington, DC, and Bernard Arnault in Paris.Collectors are no doubt drawn to Mr Gursky's key subject matter: big business.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "key subject" to clearly identify the main topic of discussion or analysis in your writing to ensure the reader understands the central focus.

Common error

Avoid using "key subject" without clearly defining what the subject is. For example, instead of saying "The key subject is important", specify "The key subject of this research is climate change mitigation strategies".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key subject" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies the central theme or topic under discussion or investigation. Ludwig examples show its use across various domains, emphasizing its role in pinpointing the main focus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key subject" is a commonly used noun phrase that effectively identifies the main topic or focus of a discussion, analysis, or study. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific domains. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, providing specific context when using "key subject" ensures clarity. Alternatives such as "main topic" or "primary focus" can be used to add nuance. Remember that focusing on precision and clear definitions, as recommended in the writing guidance, will allow you to use "key subject" correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main topic

Focuses on the topic being central, emphasizing its importance.

central theme

Emphasizes the recurring idea or message that unifies a work.

primary focus

Highlights the area of greatest attention or effort.

core issue

Highlights the fundamental problem or matter at hand.

principal concern

Emphasizes the most important worry or matter needing attention.

major point

Highlights the most significant idea being conveyed.

chief aspect

Focuses on the most important feature or element of something.

critical element

Emphasizes the essential component necessary for success or understanding.

essential aspect

Highlights the absolutely necessary component or feature.

significant area

Focuses on the important field or domain under consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "key subject" in a sentence?

You can use "key subject" to introduce the main topic of discussion, such as: "The "key subject" of this meeting is the new marketing campaign."

What's a good alternative to "key subject"?

Alternatives include "main topic", "central theme", or "primary focus". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "key subject" formal or informal?

"Key subject" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal academic writing, you might consider synonyms like "principal concern" or "core issue" for a more sophisticated tone.

What is the difference between "key subject" and "topic"?

While both refer to the main theme, "key subject" often implies a greater level of importance or centrality than a simple "topic". A "key subject" is the most important aspect of a discussion, while a topic can be a broader, more general area.