key subjects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key subjects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to important topics or areas of study that are significant in a particular context. Example: "In our curriculum, we will focus on key subjects such as mathematics, science, and literature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bureaucracy is one of Mr. Wiseman's key subjects.

The New York Times

When setting offers, we would rather "protect" key subjects than exclude particular A-levels.

The Guardian

On his arrival, attainment in the three key subjects showed a steep downward trend.

The Guardian

But its spokesman adds: "When setting offers, we would rather 'protect' key subjects than exclude particular A-levels.

The Guardian

Labour says the number of applications to train to teach is down in every region, with key subjects like English, maths and computer studies all affected.

The Guardian

The "trending" box contains links to the key subjects of the day, pointing readers to the best resources we have for each topic.

The Guardian

Up to 100,000 pupils in England and Wales face lessons in the key subjects of maths and physics by teachers with no qualifications in the subjects.

The Guardian - Opinion

The first selection of audience questions had immediately returned to one of the key subjects of the first debate: currency union.

The Guardian

David Laws, the education minister, has announced that more scholarships and bursaries will be available to encourage talented graduates into teaching key subjects.

The Guardian

A failure to inject strategic planning has led to whole regions of the country with too few student teachers, especially in key subjects.

The Guardian

A range of key subjects have failed to meet government targets and some disciplines have attracted barely half the numbers aimed for.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "key subjects" to highlight the importance of certain subjects over others in a given context.

Common error

Avoid using "key subjects" as a general term for all school subjects. Be specific about which subjects are considered "key" and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key subjects" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it accurately identifies important areas of study. The examples show its use in educational and professional contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "key subjects" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that serves to emphasize the importance of specific topics or areas of study. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is valid and appropriate across various contexts. The term sees common application in news, formal business communications, and scientific literature, indicating its versatility. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clarifies which subjects are deemed "key" to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as ""core subjects"" or ""essential subjects"" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core subjects

Replaces "key" with "core", emphasizing the fundamental nature of the subjects.

essential subjects

Substitutes "key" with "essential", highlighting the necessity of the subjects.

main subjects

Uses "main" instead of "key", focusing on the primary importance of the subjects.

primary subjects

Replaces "key" with "primary", indicating the subjects' foremost rank.

important subjects

Substitutes "key" with "important", directly stating the subjects' significance.

critical subjects

Uses "critical" instead of "key", emphasizing the subjects' crucial role.

fundamental subjects

Replaces "key" with "fundamental", highlighting the foundational nature of the subjects.

major subjects

Substitutes "key" with "major", indicating the subjects' significant scope or impact.

principal subjects

Uses "principal" instead of "key", emphasizing the subjects' high rank or importance.

significant subjects

Replaces "key" with "significant", directly stating the subjects' notable importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "key subjects" to refer to the most important areas of study in a particular context. For example, "The curriculum focuses on "essential subjects" like math and science".

What are some alternatives to "key subjects"?

Some alternatives to "key subjects" include "core subjects", "essential subjects", and "primary subjects", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which subjects are usually considered "key subjects"?

The specific subjects considered "key" can vary depending on the context. However, commonly cited examples include English, mathematics, and science, as these are often seen as foundational for further learning.

Is it appropriate to use "key subjects" in formal writing?

Yes, "key subjects" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where you need to emphasize the importance of certain subjects. However, ensure the context clearly defines which subjects are being referred to.