matters outstanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "matters outstanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to issues, tasks, or obligations that have not yet been resolved or completed. Example: "Before we can proceed with the project, we need to address all matters outstanding from the previous meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Most of the matters outstanding for nationalists are operational ones," he said.

The Guardian

In addition there are some serious matters outstanding, including future contributions and how costs will be managed".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Ms. Giancola said she preferred to avoid the headstrong singers, no matter how outstanding their voices.

The New York Times

The Packers did not believe that Favre could carry a team to the Super Bowl again, no matter how outstanding his regular season was.

The New York Times

This came with very tough conditions and enforced far-reaching structural reforms.The difference is that in the case of Greece it is not only the matter of outstanding foreign debt, but forthcoming domestic insolvency, too.

The Economist

Under the new initiative, officers who detain a quality of life offender are ordered to take that person "directly to one of the Arraignment Parts of the Manhattan Criminal Courts Building … to face a judge on both the summons matter and outstanding warrant", and be provided a public defender if they cannot afford to hire counsel.

The Guardian

Such metrics further block innovation because they encourage scientists to work in areas of science that are already highly populated, as it is only in these fields that large numbers of scientists can be expected to reference one's work, no matter how outstanding.

Science Magazine

We do not allow ourselves to be blinded by a person's reputation, no matter how outstanding it may be.

Huffington Post

Then there's the matter of outstanding debt obligations, the lower the outstanding credit in your name, the better off you will be when it comes to handling the mortgage.

Huffington Post

"We need to get in a room as a matter of urgency and get proper, focused discussions to agree on the outstanding matters.

BBC

"I think it just became obvious to her that outstanding matters would remain contested, and representing oneself is fraught with peril no matter how good you are".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "matters outstanding", ensure the context clearly indicates what kind of matters are being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "legal matters outstanding" or "financial matters outstanding" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "matters outstanding" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or bureaucratic in settings where simpler language would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matters outstanding" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or subject complement within a sentence. It identifies specific items, issues, or tasks that remain unresolved or incomplete. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "matters outstanding" is a grammatically correct term used to denote unresolved issues or pending tasks. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is suitable for formal settings and often found in news, business, and legal contexts. While "matters outstanding" is not overly common, it's a valuable tool for clearly identifying incomplete items. Alternatives like "unresolved issues" or "pending matters" can be used in more casual situations. Remember to be specific when referencing "matters outstanding" to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unresolved issues

Focuses on the lack of resolution, highlighting that the issues are still open.

remaining issues

Indicates that some issues are left from a larger set that has been partially addressed.

pending matters

Emphasizes that the matters are waiting to be dealt with, implying a sense of anticipation.

unfinished business

Suggests tasks or issues that have not been completed, often with a sense of urgency.

matters pending resolution

Highlights formal resolution and the matters need a fix.

yet-to-be-resolved problems

Emphasizes the problems have not been solved.

unsettled affairs

Signifies that some topics are not yet with a lack of closure.

outstanding debts

Specifically refers to financial obligations that have not been paid.

open questions

Highlights unanswered inquiries or uncertainties that need to be addressed.

incomplete items

Items that have not been finalized.

FAQs

How can I use "matters outstanding" in a sentence?

You can use "matters outstanding" to refer to issues or tasks that are yet to be resolved. For example, "Before finalizing the agreement, we need to address all "matters outstanding"."

What can I say instead of "matters outstanding"?

You can use alternatives like "unresolved issues", "pending matters", or "unfinished business" depending on the specific context.

Is "matters outstanding" formal or informal?

"Matters outstanding" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for business, legal, or official contexts. Using simpler terms like "unresolved issues" may be more appropriate in informal settings.

What's the difference between "matters outstanding" and "outstanding issues"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. However, "matters outstanding" is slightly more formal and emphasizes the business or official nature of the issues, while "outstanding issues" can be used more broadly.