matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, often to refer to a subject, topic, or issue of concern. Example: "The matter at hand requires careful consideration before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It did not matter.

The New York Times - Sports

IT WAS only a matter of time.

The New York Times

"They were wrong no matter the circumstance and I regret them".

The Guardian - Tech

But no matter.

The New York Times

"Mr Carmichael said at the time that the first he was aware of this matter was when he received a call from a journalist, but we now know that this is simply untrue.

The Guardian

Does this matter?

The New York Times - Arts

But it didn't matter.

The New York Times

It may not matter.

The New York Times

But that may not matter.

The New York Times

No matter what party a candidate represents, he has to take the current state of affairs into account".

The New York Times

It didn't matter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "matter" in a formal context, consider more precise synonyms like "issue" or "subject" to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "matter" excessively in casual conversation; simpler terms may sound more natural and less stilted.

Linguistic Context

The word "matter" functions primarily as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to a substance or a subject. As a verb, it means to be important. Ludwig's examples showcase both functions. The grammatical status of the phrase is confirmed as correct by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "matter" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and a verb. As Ludwig AI confirms, it adheres to standard grammatical rules. Its significance varies from denoting substances and topics to conveying importance. With a very common occurrence, primarily in news and media, "matter" can be utilized in neutral and professional settings. When writing, consider refining "matter" to "issue" or "subject" in certain contexts. Keep in mind excessive use can sound unnatural, and you could consider related alternatives such as "be important" or "carry weight".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be important

Focuses on the significance or relevance of something, similar to one sense of "matter".

bear importance

Synonymous with "be important", placing emphasis on the significance.

be relevant

Highlights the pertinence of something to a particular context or situation.

carry weight

Emphasizes the influence or importance of something in a decision or situation.

be of consequence

Formally indicates that something has significant importance or impact.

substance

Refers to the essential part or quality of something, similar to "matter" in some contexts.

make a difference

Indicates that something has a noticeable effect or impact.

issue at hand

Focuses on a specific problem or subject currently under consideration.

hold significance

Highlights the inherent value or importance of something.

point of discussion

Highlights the subject being talked about.

FAQs

How can I use "matter" in a sentence?

You can use "matter" to refer to a subject under consideration, as in "The "matter at hand" is urgent". It can also denote importance, such as "Does it "really matter"?"

What are some synonyms for "matter"?

Depending on the context, synonyms for "matter" include "issue", "subject", "topic", "concern", "substance", or "material".

Is it correct to say "What is the matter?"

Yes, the phrase "What is the "matter"?" is a common and grammatically correct way to ask someone what is wrong or what the problem is.

When should I use "matter" versus "problem"?

"Matter" is more general and can refer to any subject of discussion or concern, while "problem" specifically indicates a difficulty or trouble. Use "matter" when the issue isn't necessarily negative. For example: "The "matter of discussion" is the new policy" vs "The main "problem" is lack of funding".