narrow subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrow subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific or limited topic of discussion or study. Example: "The research paper focuses on a narrow subject, examining the effects of climate change on a single species of fish."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

(Macmillan, $19.95). Robert Kanigel's narrow subject is "mentoring networks... in the highest ranks of science"; his broad one, how "important" science is done.

The New York Times - Books

Again there is talk of news being commoditised and of the need to focus on analysis and opinion, or on a narrow subject area.

The Economist

This is about a narrow subject: conflicting poll results from major polling groups on who does or doesn't believe the allegations against him.

The New York Times

The "Iliad" has focus and weight because it zeroes in on what is, despite its length, a very narrow subject (albeit with vast, rippling ramifications): Achilles' wrath, what it stems from and what it means.

The New York Times - Books

See 2 P. Goldstein, Copyright §5.12, p. 5 225 (2d ed. 1996) (§106A encompasses aspects of the moral rights guaranteed by Article 6bis of the Berne Convention, "but effectively gives these rights a narrow subject matter and scope").

Harvard University

See 2 P. Goldstein, Copyright §5.12, p. 5 225 (2d ed. 1996) (§106A encompasses aspects of the moral rights guaranteed by Article 6bis of the Berne Convention, “but effectively gives these rights a narrow subject matter and scope”).

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

People with that disorder often have high intelligence and vast knowledge on narrow subjects but lack social skills.

The Guardian

They can be professionals who buy and sell books about narrow subjects (architecture, landscaping and fishing were my employer's specialties).

MIT Technology Review

Judge Kireyev's decision to jail her for contempt and then approve a prosecutorial appeal to remand her to jail for the length of trial because she had arrived late were the narrow subjects of the human rights court's ruling.

The New York Times

Unlike the school playground, the marketplace is kind to misfits.Recruiters have noticed that the mental qualities that make a good computer programmer resemble those that might get you diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome: an obsessive interest in narrow subjects; a passion for numbers, patterns and machines; an addiction to repetitive tasks; and a lack of sensitivity to social cues.

The Economist

(Become not are already books). To judge by the manuscripts that scholars send to publishing houses, the majority of the theses for which the Ph.D. is awarded are still highly limited enterprises confident treatments of narrow subjects, making claims to boldness but doing so by means of elaborate reference to the work of others.

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining the scope of your research or writing, clearly articulate the boundaries of your "narrow subject" to maintain focus and prevent scope creep.

Common error

Avoid starting with a broad topic and only vaguely hinting at the "narrow subject" later. Instead, clearly define and establish the specific focus from the outset to guide your audience effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrow subject" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "narrow" is an adjective that modifies the noun "subject". It is used to describe a topic that is specific and limited in scope, focusing the discussion on a particular aspect of a broader field. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

32%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "narrow subject" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that helps define and limit the scope of a discussion or study. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is indeed valid. It is most common in news, academic, and scientific contexts. To use it effectively, ensure you clearly define the boundaries of your topic and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives include "focused topic" and "specialized area". Remember that specifying a "narrow subject" ensures your writing remains focused and allows for deeper, more insightful analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focused topic

Emphasizes concentration and precision in the topic, rather than its limited scope.

specialized area

Highlights expertise and in-depth knowledge within a particular field.

limited scope

Focuses on the restricted extent or range of the subject matter.

specific focus

Points to a definite and particular area of attention.

defined subject

Suggests clarity and precision in the topic's boundaries.

concentrated theme

Emphasizes the density and intensity of the topic's core idea.

circumscribed topic

Implies carefully set limits and boundaries around the subject.

niche subject

Suggests a specialized or uncommon area of interest.

particular subject

Highlights the specificity and distinctness of the topic.

restricted theme

Indicates limitations placed on the theme, usually externally.

FAQs

How can I effectively write about a "narrow subject"?

Begin by clearly defining the scope and boundaries of your topic. Conduct thorough research within these limits and maintain a consistent focus throughout your writing to avoid digressions.

What are some alternatives to saying "narrow subject"?

You can use alternatives like "focused topic", "specialized area", or "limited scope" depending on the context.

Is it better to write about a broad or "narrow subject"?

It depends on your goals. A "narrow subject" allows for deeper analysis and greater expertise, while a broader subject provides a wider overview. Choose based on your research objectives and available resources.

How do I identify a "narrow subject" within a larger field of study?

Start by exploring the main topic, then identify specific areas of interest or unresolved questions. Focus on a manageable aspect that allows for in-depth investigation and original insights.