matter at hand

USAGE SUMMARY

'matter at hand' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used any time you wish to refer to a particular topic or subject that is currently being discussed or focused on. For example, "Let's discuss the matter at hand - the proposed changes to the company's pension plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But to the matter at hand.

The New York Times

"It's extraneous to the matter at hand".

The New York Times

Back to the matter at hand.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is the serious matter at hand," Mr. Brown said.

The New York Times

But you're not thinking" about the matter at hand.

The New York Times - Books

Regarding the matter at hand, Benny and Stan were reassuring.

The New Yorker

Only then did Trump address the matter at hand.

The Guardian

First, let's talk about the matter at hand – Jump Street!

The Guardian - Film

I couldn't resist that detail, but the matter at hand is serious.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The matter at hand was the marriage of the model April Ashley to Arthur Corbett.

Vice

Anyway, back to the matter at hand.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "matter at hand" to refocus a conversation or text that has drifted off-topic. It's a concise way to bring attention back to the central issue.

Common error

Avoid using "matter at hand" when introducing a completely new topic. This phrase is best used to refer back to something already under discussion, not to initiate a fresh subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matter at hand" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object within a sentence. It is used to identify the current topic or issue being discussed, often to refocus or emphasize its importance, as Ludwig highlights with numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "matter at hand" is a very common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to the current topic under discussion. It's versatile, fitting into neutral to professional contexts, especially in News & Media. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase helps maintain focus and prevent digressions. To use it effectively, ensure it refers to an existing topic, and consider alternatives like "primary focus" or ""issue at stake"" for nuanced contexts. Avoiding misuse and adhering to its core function will ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary focus

Highlights where the main attention or effort is directed.

current issue

Highlights the relevance and timeliness of the problem.

topic in question

Emphasizes that the subject is under discussion or consideration.

subject under discussion

Highlights the act of actively discussing the topic.

main subject

Emphasizes the importance and centrality of the topic.

issue at stake

Focuses on the potential outcome or consequence of the situation.

immediate concern

Underlines the urgency and pressing nature of the issue.

point in question

Directs attention to a specific detail or argument.

central theme

Focuses on the overarching idea or concept.

present concern

Indicates a sense of immediacy and worry about the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "matter at hand" in a sentence?

You can use "matter at hand" to bring the focus back to the current topic. For example, "Let's get back to the "matter at hand", which is the budget proposal."

What's a more formal alternative to "matter at hand"?

In more formal settings, consider using phrases such as "the "subject under consideration"" or "the "issue at stake"".

Is it appropriate to use "matter at hand" in academic writing?

Yes, "matter at hand" is appropriate for academic writing, especially when you want to emphasize the central topic or argument. However, ensure that your usage is clear and contextually relevant.

What's the difference between "matter at hand" and "point in question"?

"Matter at hand" refers to the overall topic or issue being discussed, while "point in question" refers to a specific detail or argument within that topic. They are often interchangeable, but "point in question" is more granular.