material in question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "material in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a specific item or subject that is being discussed or examined. Example: "The report focuses on the material in question to determine its compliance with safety standards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Prosecutors said the material in question was not relevant.

The New York Times

The material in question depicted Picasso in the nude.

The New York Times - Arts

They contended that their conduct was not criminal, because the material in question was unwanted.

The Economist

(Or unless sites cross the line from aggregators to co-creators of the material in question).

The New York Times

First, a stream of air is run over the absorbing material in question, which pulls CO2 out of it.

The Economist

Dr. Mann produced the material in question, and the Pennsylvania State board cleared him of the charge.

The New York Times - Science

The company then determines whether the material in question violates its community standards, removing some items but allowing others to stay.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

But the materials in question did not add up to much.

The Guardian

"It's absolutely crucial to maintain a level of respect for the materials in question and the author in question".

The New Yorker

Without gravity, however, splitting the two is trickier business — whether the materials in question are in a fuel line, an oxygen generation system or a toilet.

The New York Times - Science

"We ceased using the materials in question on the day the order became effective and promptly retrieved them from doctors' offices".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "material in question", ensure the context clearly defines what material you are referring to, avoiding ambiguity for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "material in question" when you can be more specific about the type of material (e.g., "the data", "the evidence", "the document"). Specificity enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "material in question" functions as a noun phrase used to specify a particular item or subject under discussion. It often appears in legal, scientific, or journalistic contexts, directing attention to a specific entity for further examination or analysis. According to Ludwig, the phrase is used correctly.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "material in question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig, to refer to a specific item or subject under consideration. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it serves to clarify and focus discussions on a particular entity. While versatile, it's advisable to be specific about the type of material when possible to enhance clarity. Alternatives like "subject at hand" or "relevant information" can be used depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject at hand

Emphasizes the topic being currently discussed, rather than the physical material.

item under consideration

Highlights the act of evaluation or deliberation of a specific item.

matter in dispute

Focuses on disagreement or debate about a particular issue.

relevant information

Stresses the pertinence and significance of specific data.

pertinent details

Highlights crucial aspects that are directly related to the topic.

specified content

Emphasizes the exact and particular nature of the subject.

aforementioned material

Refers back to something already mentioned, adding a formal tone.

designated subject

Highlights that the topic has been specifically chosen or assigned.

issue at stake

Focuses on the consequences or risks associated with the subject.

concerned item

Highlights worry or interest surrounding a specific item.

FAQs

How can I use "material in question" in a sentence?

You can use "material in question" to refer to a specific item or subject being discussed. For example, "The court reviewed the "evidence" in question to reach a verdict."

What can I say instead of "material in question"?

You can use alternatives like "subject at hand", "item under consideration", or "relevant information" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "material in question" or be more specific?

While "material in question" is grammatically correct, being more specific (e.g., "the report", "the data", "the sample") is often clearer and more informative.

What's the difference between "material in question" and "matter in question"?

"Material in question" generally refers to physical items or documents, while "matter in question" typically refers to issues or subjects of discussion.