sole matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sole matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the only issue or topic being discussed or considered in a particular context. Example: "The sole matter at hand is whether we should proceed with the project or not."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That is the sole matter of interest, as opposed to impact, that arises from the film.

The New Yorker

These cases are before the court for disposition of the sole matter presently remaining for decision by the trial court, namely, entry of appropriate relief for the violations of the Sherman Act, Sections 1 and 2, and various state laws committed by the defendant Microsoft Corporation as found by court in accordance with its findings of fact and conclusions of law.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

There's Future, whose sole subject matter is bitter heartbreak and addiction; and, of course, Kanye West, building his palace of folly ever bigger, continually testing the limits of egotism, yet in a constant state of fragmentation and doubt too.

The Guardian - Music

Modern coloured inks and washable inks contain soluble synthetic dyes as the sole colouring matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The sole reading matter on the panga was the Bible belonging to Salvador.

The New Yorker

Even though theoretical power output is estimated at 3.2 W/m geometric planting area [ 10],maximum power output has been improved only from 65 mW/m in 2008 [ 12] to 220 mW/m in 2010 [ 9] in systems with plants as sole organic matter source.

Biotechnology for Biofuels

But, fortunately, in modern times, it is impossible to be the sole narrator, no matter how many punches cops dole out to anyone toting a camera.

Huffington Post

Since extension is the sole essential property of matter and, conversely, matter always accompanies extension, matter must be ubiquitous.

SEP

The sole event that mattered last week was his jawboning of BP for a $20 billion down payment of blood money — to be overseen, appropriately enough, by Kenneth Feinberg of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.

The New York Times

Florida's provision was tucked into a bill that largely concerned amendments to state regulations on vacation rentals, and assigned the state the sole authority over "matters related to the nutritional content and marketing of foods" in restaurants and hotels.

The New York Times

The peasants, who were supported by the reformer Müntzer, published their grievances in a manifesto titled "The Twelve Articles of the Peasants"; the document is notable for its declaration that the rightness of the peasants' demands should be judged by the Word of God, a notion derived directly from Luther's teaching that the Bible is the sole guide in matters of morality and belief.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sole matter" when you want to emphasize that only one specific issue is truly relevant or under consideration. This can help to focus a discussion or argument.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "sole matter" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "only thing" or "main point" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sole matter" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It is used to identify a single, specific issue or point of concern, highlighting its uniqueness or exclusivity. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sole matter" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to emphasize the uniqueness and importance of a single issue or concern. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While its usage isn't extremely common, it appears in authoritative sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica. For more casual contexts, consider using alternatives like "only concern" or "main point". While the phrase may have formal vibes, the context is still neutral. It's suitable for professional contexts where precision and clarity are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only concern

Focuses on the singular aspect of the issue at hand, similar to highlighting its uniqueness.

single issue

Emphasizes that only one specific problem or subject is being considered.

primary focus

Shifts the emphasis to the main point of attention or importance.

chief concern

Highlights the main worry or point of interest.

main point

Simplifies the phrase to refer to the central idea or argument.

central theme

Highlights the core subject around which discussion revolves.

core issue

Highlights that this is the most important underlying matter.

key topic

Refers to the principal theme under consideration.

exclusive subject

Highlights that no other subjects are being addressed.

only thing that matters

Strengthens the emphasis, highlighting the single, critical element.

FAQs

What does "sole matter" mean?

The phrase "sole matter" refers to the only issue, subject, or concern that is relevant or under consideration in a particular context. It emphasizes that nothing else is important or needs attention.

How can I use "sole matter" in a sentence?

You can use "sole matter" to emphasize the singularity of an issue. For example, "The "sole matter" before the court is the interpretation of the contract."

What are some alternatives to "sole matter"?

Alternatives to "sole matter" include phrases like "only concern", "single issue", or "primary focus". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sole matter" formal or informal?

"Sole matter" leans towards the formal side. In casual settings, simpler phrases might be more appropriate. Consider context when choosing between "sole matter" and alternatives like "main thing" or "only thing".