matter with

USAGE SUMMARY

Of it? The phrase "matter with" is not grammatically correct in written English; instead, the phrase "what's wrong with" is the correct usage.
You can use this phrase to ask someone what is wrong with a certain thing. Example: What's wrong with the paper plane I made?.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What's the matter with conservatives?

The New Yorker

What's the matter with you?

The New York Times

What's the matter with that?

The New York Times

"What's the matter with Tiger?

The New York Times - Sports

What's the matter with you Holzman?

The New Yorker

Now what's the matter with us?

The New York Times

So what's the matter with Atlanta?

The New York Times

"What is the matter with feeling dreadful?

The New Yorker

She recalled discussing the matter with Diana.

The New Yorker

The Times handled the matter with dispatch.

The New York Times

Whatsa matter with you?" she snapped.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "matter with" in formal writing. Instead, opt for grammatically correct alternatives like "what's wrong with" or "what's the matter with".

Common error

A common mistake is using "matter with" instead of the correct phrase "what's the matter with". Always include "what's" or "what is" before "the matter with" to ensure grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matter with" is grammatically incomplete. It requires a preceding interrogative phrase such as "what's" or "what is" to function as a question inquiring about a problem. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is not grammatically correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "matter with" might be understood in informal conversation, it is grammatically incorrect in standard English. The correct way to inquire about a problem is to use phrases like "what's wrong with" or ""what's the matter with"". As Ludwig AI points out, relying on grammatically sound phrases ensures clear and effective communication, particularly in formal writing. When in doubt, always opt for the complete and correct phrasing to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what's wrong with

This alternative is a grammatically correct and direct way to ask about a problem.

what's the problem with

This alternative specifies that you're asking about a problem related to something.

what's the trouble with

This alternative is similar to "what's the problem with" but slightly less common.

is there something wrong with

This alternative is a more gentle way to inquire if something is amiss.

what's the matter

This alternative is a shorter and more general way to ask if someone is troubled.

what's the difficulty with

This alternative specifically asks about a difficulty or challenge related to something.

what's bothering

This alternative focuses on what is causing someone distress or worry.

what's up with

This alternative is an informal way to ask what is happening or wrong.

what ails

This alternative is a more formal or archaic way to ask what is troubling someone.

what's amiss with

This alternative is a more formal way to ask what is wrong or out of place.

FAQs

What is the correct way to ask about a problem using 'matter'?

The correct way to ask about a problem using 'matter' is to say "What's the "what's the matter with"" or "What is the matter with". The phrase "matter with" alone is grammatically incorrect.

What can I say instead of "matter with"?

Instead of "matter with", you can use alternatives such as "what's wrong with", "what's the problem with", or simply "what's the matter" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "matter with" or "what's the matter with"?

"What's the matter with" is the correct and grammatically sound phrase. "Matter with" alone is not a complete or correct phrase in standard English.

How do I use "what's the matter with" in a sentence?

You can use "what's the matter with" to inquire about a problem or issue. For example, "What's the matter with the car?" or "What's the matter with you today?"