ordinary subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordinary subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a common or typical topic or theme in a discussion or piece of writing. Example: "In this essay, I will explore the ordinary subject of daily life and its impact on our well-being."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

That is fairly ordinary subject matter, but around it Stone has constructed a two-houir fever dream about the culture of violence in America.

The New Yorker

I love convincing a reader that an unusual or seemingly ordinary subject is worth his or her time — it's part of the fun for me as a writer.

The New Yorker

Stolfa used her job as a bartender at McGlinchey's, a neighborhood tavern in Center City Philadelphia, to present an inventive point of view on a seemingly ordinary subject.

The New York Times - Magazine

Conditioned by the immense spectacle and horror of September 11th, the media horde was unsure of itself, not quite capable of recalibrating its coverage to the gruesome but more ordinary subject at hand.

The New Yorker

To Germain, realism is not an impulse common to all art but the descriptive term for a body of work, characterised by its even-handed approach to ordinary subject matter (broadly, the "moeurs" of the "moyen").

The Guardian - Film

In such cases, these directors would do better to spend some chunk of the budget giving away copies of the beloved book, and then make a movie on a more ordinary subject that they can sink their teeth into uninhibitedly — or, for that matter, make a movie about people like themselves, whose love for a masterful book plays a big role in their lives.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

These schools sought to teach a trade in addition to ordinary subjects of the matriculation syllabus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Five, a sure fix on the best musicians as both extraordinary artists and ordinary subjects of history.

The New York Times - Books

It's as if Carey had set herself the task of taking utterly ordinary subjects and making them far more inventive and stylish than a reader dared hope.

The New York Times - Books

With ordinary subjects, one might shrink from noting physical attributes, but with artists who have spent years using color for effect, such observations seem fair.

The New York Times - Arts

Based on personal travel snapshots, the paintings depict ordinary subjects like suitcases on an airport baggage claim conveyor, a generic hotel room, laundry hanging outside an apartment building in Cuba, a glowing barn window.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing art or photography, use "ordinary subject" to highlight how an artist's unique perspective can transform the commonplace into something extraordinary.

Common error

Avoid using "ordinary subject" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or nuanced language is expected. Consider using terms like "common theme" or "typical topic" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary subject" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "ordinary" modifies the noun "subject". This phrase typically serves to characterize the topic or theme under discussion, indicating its common or unremarkable nature. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is valid.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ordinary subject" effectively describes a commonplace or unremarkable topic. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage across various contexts. While grammatically sound and frequently used, especially in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, writers should be mindful of the context and consider more precise alternatives like "common topic" or "typical theme" in more formal settings. When employed skillfully, as shown in the examples Ludwig provides, it highlights the potential for unique perspectives to transform the mundane into something extraordinary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common topic

Focuses on the topic being commonplace, shifting emphasis from the subject itself.

typical theme

Highlights the conventional nature of the theme, rather than the subject.

standard issue

Implies something is standard or routine, especially in a specific context.

run-of-the-mill matter

Emphasizes the ordinariness and lack of special qualities.

everyday affair

Focuses on the daily and unremarkable nature of the subject.

mundane issue

Highlights the lack of excitement or interest in the subject.

banal theme

Stresses the unoriginal and trite nature of the theme.

conventional matter

Emphasizes adherence to established norms and customs.

garden-variety topic

Highlights the commonplace and unexceptional quality.

usual subject

Indicates the subject is customary or habitual.

FAQs

What does "ordinary subject" mean?

The phrase "ordinary subject" refers to a common, typical, or unremarkable topic or theme. It describes something that lacks special or unusual qualities.

How can I use "ordinary subject" in a sentence?

You can use "ordinary subject" to describe a topic that is commonplace or lacks novelty, such as, "The artist transformed an "ordinary subject" into a captivating piece of art."

What are some alternatives to "ordinary subject"?

Some alternatives to "ordinary subject" include "common topic", "typical theme", or "everyday affair". The best alternative depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "ordinary subject" or "common subject"?

Both "ordinary subject" and "common subject" are acceptable. "Ordinary subject" emphasizes the unexceptional nature of the topic, while "common subject" simply indicates that it is frequently encountered.