outrageous subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outrageous subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a topic that is shocking, scandalous, or highly controversial. Example: "The documentary tackled an outrageous subject that left many viewers in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Imitations began appearing, and the competition grew so fierce that many programs began to feature increasingly outrageous subject matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In Terrence McNally's best work, theatre — or, more specifically, the artifice inherent in all social interaction — plays as much of a role as his often outrageous subject matter.

The New Yorker

As he hits his stride and the genitalia count starts to mount--as his angle of vision goes down and the distance between painter and model closes to a nose length--the language of MOMA's exhibition catalogue turns in desperation to the decorous conventions of artspeak, becoming ever more formalistic in the face of increasingly outrageous subject matter.

The New Yorker

As he hits his stride and the genitalia count starts to mount--as his angle of vision goes down and the distance between painter and model closes to a nose length--the language of MOMA's exhibition catalogue turns in desperation to the decorous conventions of artspeak, becoming ever more formalistic in the face of increasingly outrageous subject matter..

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

He makes accessible outrageous subjects -- unapologetic addicts, sadomasochists, all manner of so-called sinners -- and without requiring their contrition.

The New York Times - Arts

On the scale of formal inventiveness and outrageous, headline-grabbing subject matter, however, no one has quite matched Penny Lane.

Vice

Ozon, in his camera movements as in his editing, is no less scrupulous and serene, and, to that extent, he is cleaving to a distinguished French tradition: the fine art of outraging an audience by refusing to be outrageous, however startling your subject matter.

The New Yorker

Outrageous is subjective.

WikiHow

Having last been updated at the height of the Backstreet Boys' powers, Ontario revealed its revamped sex ed curriculum today, with lessons on outrageous, wildly radical subjects such as sexting, homosexuality and the proper names for your private parts.

Vice

One of the shows receiving the best early word of mouth doesn't have an outrageous title or titillating subject matter.

The New York Times

Taking a serious subject – something outrageous like Goldman Sachs putting millions of people into extreme poverty – and making it stupid is what I aim to do.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outrageous subject" when you want to emphasize a topic's shocking or scandalous nature. Consider other alternatives like "controversial subject" or "sensitive subject" if a less intense description is more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "outrageous subject" casually without providing sufficient context to justify the strong adjective. Overusing such language can diminish its impact and credibility. Ensure the subject truly warrants such a description by verifying the presence of elements that are genuinely shocking or offensive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outrageous subject" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "outrageous" modifies the noun "subject". It serves to characterize a particular topic or theme as highly shocking, offensive, or unacceptable. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "outrageous subject" is a valid phrase used to describe a topic that is extremely shocking, offensive, or scandalous. Ludwig AI highlights its presence in diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Encyclopedias, with neutral register. Although "outrageous subject" is deemed correct, it is best to consider alternatives such as "scandalous topic" or "shocking matter", depending on the desired level of intensity and formality. When using this phrase, ensure the context supports the strong connotation of "outrageous" to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scandalous topic

Replaces "outrageous" with "scandalous", emphasizing the topic's potential to cause public outrage or damage reputations.

shocking matter

Substitutes "outrageous" with "shocking", highlighting the subject's ability to cause surprise and disbelief.

offensive theme

Replaces "outrageous" with "offensive", focusing on the subject's potential to cause hurt feelings or disgust.

unacceptable issue

Substitutes "outrageous" with "unacceptable", stressing that the subject does not meet standards of propriety or morality.

appalling content

Replaces "outrageous" with "appalling", highlighting the subject's ability to inspire shock and revulsion.

egregious theme

Emphasizes that the subject is remarkably bad or shocking.

preposterous idea

Substitutes "outrageous" with "preposterous", focusing on the subject's absurd or ridiculous nature.

unconscionable matter

Highlights the subject's lack of moral principles or conscience.

scandalizing issue

Focuses on the subject's ability to generate public outrage and moral shock.

controversial subject matter

Highlights the subject's ability to provoke disagreement and debate.

FAQs

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

You can use "outrageous subject" to describe a topic that is considered shocking, scandalous, or highly controversial. For example: "The documentary tackled an "outrageous subject" that left many viewers in disbelief."

What are some alternatives to "outrageous subject"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "scandalous topic", "shocking matter", or "controversial subject matter".

Is "outrageous subject" formal or informal?

"Outrageous subject" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is important to consider the audience and the specific situation. In more formal settings, you may want to consider using a less emotionally charged alternative.

What makes a subject qualify as an "outrageous subject"?

A subject qualifies as an "outrageous subject" when it deviates significantly from accepted norms, elicits strong negative emotional responses, or involves actions or ideas that are considered morally reprehensible by a significant portion of the population.