matter of theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "matter of theme" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used when discussing the subject or topic of a discussion, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "In this essay, we will explore the matter of theme in contemporary literature."

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is not only a matter of theme and style, though Mr. Corman's "Wild Angels" was a forerunner of "Easy Rider," much as "The Trip" anticipated many future cinematic freakouts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Plus, there's the matter of the theme song.

The New Yorker

Then there's the matter of the theme tune.

The Guardian - Film

Was his mixture of romanticism and classicism genuine and organic or merely mechanical, a matter of putting themes doggedly through their paces?

The Economist

"Not Now" features a church organ in its verses and guitar riffs reminiscent of the Descendents; its subject matter continues the theme of complicated miscommunication and fading love.

Wikipedia

Although his subsequent books departed radically from the subject matter of this first one, its underlying theme -- which is the contingent and fungible nature of identity, including the identity of the writer -- continued to appear in other guises.

The New York Times - Books

"The subject matter of this film is morally repellant both in theme and treatment," the National Legion of Decency said of "BABY DOLL" when it came out in 1956.

The New York Times

The Royal has a 10-strong music staff at choreographers' disposal, but no one, it seems, to advise choreographers, and when necessary tactfully redirect them, on matters of concept, theme and story.

The Guardian

The subject matter of the carvings of the central brackets on misericords is very varied, but with many common themes occurring in different churches.

Wikipedia

This theme was taken up, in turn, by late medieval Italian practitioners and theorists of rhetoric, who emphasized that the subject matter of the art was lite (conflict).

SEP

Strong reasons already have been given to doubt that music can have a subject matter at all. 2. In addition to a subject matter in the sense of representational content, a work of art may have subject matter in the sense of theme, or underlying idea.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically correct, consider replacing "matter of theme" with more common and direct alternatives such as "subject of the theme" or "topic of the theme" for improved clarity and style.

Common error

Avoid using "matter of theme" excessively in formal writing. Opt for clearer and more concise phrasing to enhance the impact and readability of your text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matter of theme" functions as a noun phrase identifying the subject or topic under consideration. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct but can sometimes sound awkward. Alternative phrasing often provides greater clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

23%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "matter of theme" is a grammatically valid phrase used to denote the subject or central idea being discussed. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it's not the most common or stylistically elegant choice. While it appears across various contexts, including News & Media, Encyclopedias and Wiki, alternative phrasings like "subject of the theme" or "topic of the theme" often provide greater clarity and impact. Thus, while technically correct, writers should carefully consider whether a more direct and commonly used alternative might better serve their intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the topic of the theme

Emphasizes the "topic" aspect, focusing on what the theme is about.

subject of the theme

Replaces "matter" with "subject", emphasizing the topic being discussed within the theme.

the focus of the theme

Highlights the primary area of attention or emphasis within the theme.

the core of the theme

Similar to "heart of the theme", focusing on the central element.

the question of theme

Substitutes "matter" with "question", highlighting an inquiry or debate about the theme.

the issue of theme

Uses "issue" instead of "matter", suggesting a problem or concern related to the theme.

the point of the theme

Emphasizes the main message or purpose behind the theme.

the concern of theme

Highlights a worry or point of interest regarding the theme.

the essence of the theme

Focuses on the fundamental nature or core aspect of the theme.

the heart of the theme

Uses a metaphorical expression to denote the central or most important part of the theme.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "matter of theme"?

You can use alternatives like "subject of the theme", "topic of the theme", or "issue of the theme" depending on the context.

Is "matter of theme" grammatically correct?

Yes, "matter of theme" is grammatically correct, but it might sound slightly awkward or formal in some contexts. Consider using more common alternatives for better flow and clarity.

How can I use "matter of theme" in a sentence?

You can use "matter of theme" to refer to the central idea or subject being discussed. For example: "The essay addresses the important matter of theme in post-modern literature."

What's the difference between "matter of theme" and "subject matter"?

"Matter of theme" typically refers to a specific thematic concern. In contrast, "subject matter" refers to the topics or content covered. They are closely related, but not always interchangeable.