strange topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strange topic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a subject that is unusual or unexpected in a particular context. Example: "During the discussion, we ended up debating a strange topic that none of us had anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

That may seem a strange topic to be discussing so long after 1945.

The New York Times

He writes: On reflection eavesdropping may have been a strange topic to pick from an essentially visual medium but listening in proved to be a hugely cinematic device, whether driving the plot forward, causing confusion or raising a smile as the embarrassment unfolds.

The Guardian - Film

With 26 million Americans unemployed or underemployed right now, retirement seems like a strange topic to discuss.

Huffington Post

"I kinda realized that actually while it's a pretty weird and strange topic, it's actually a pretty unique way of looking at how the genders behave in a private way".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Check out books and sites on these strange topics.

WikiHow

The two politicians did their best to centre the debate on policy, but were too often shouted down by other members of the audience, including strange off-topic interjections about the price of diesel versus petrol.

Independent

The catalog begins with a quotation from the painter Cecilia Beaux: "I predict a moment when the term 'Women in Art' will be as strange sounding a topic as the title 'Men in Art' would be now".

The New York Times - Arts

You would probably think it was strange and off-topic.

Huffington Post

Unlike most of the strange and fantastic topics that hosts Henry Zebrowski, Ben Kissel, and Marcus Parks of The Last Podcast On The Left have covered, this podcast is a lot more substantial.

Huffington Post

Today, our topic is: strange stories about Republican presidential hopefuls.

The New York Times

He sponsors a website on the topic called Strange Times.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strange topic" to introduce a subject that deviates from the norm or is unexpected within the current context. This helps to pique the reader's interest and signal a shift in focus.

Common error

Avoid using "strange topic" excessively in formal writing, as it can sometimes sound too informal or subjective. Consider using more precise or academic language to describe the topic's unusual nature.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strange topic" functions as a noun phrase, where "strange" modifies the noun "topic". As noted by Ludwig AI, it is usable to describe a subject that is unusual or unexpected in a particular context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strange topic" is a commonly used phrase to introduce an unusual or unexpected subject matter. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and versatile across different contexts. While suitable for news articles, general discussions, and even some academic settings, it's crucial to consider the audience and purpose when deciding if a more formal alternative is appropriate. Remember to use "strange topic" to highlight the unusual nature of the subject and pique the reader's interest, but avoid overuse, especially in very formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

odd subject

Replaces "strange" with "odd", keeping the meaning very similar but with a slightly different connotation.

peculiar theme

Substitutes both words for near synonyms, altering the feel slightly.

unusual matter

Uses different but related terms to convey the same concept.

weird issue

Employs more informal language, making it suitable for casual contexts.

curious subject

Implies the topic is not just strange but also intriguing.

bizarre theme

Highlights the extreme strangeness of the topic.

atypical issue

Indicates the topic deviates from the norm.

uncommon theme

Focuses on the infrequency of the topic being discussed.

unconventional subject matter

More formal and emphasizes the departure from established norms.

outlandish subject

Suggests the topic is extremely strange or far-fetched.

FAQs

How can I use "strange topic" in a sentence?

You can use "strange topic" to introduce an unusual or unexpected subject in a conversation or writing. For example, "During the meeting, we veered into a "strange topic" about the migratory patterns of squirrels."

What's a more formal way to say "strange topic"?

Instead of "strange topic", you could use phrases like "unconventional subject matter", "atypical theme", or "unusual matter" to maintain a more formal tone.

Is it okay to use "strange topic" in academic writing?

While "strange topic" is understandable, it's generally better to use more precise and descriptive language in academic writing. Consider specifying why the topic is considered strange or unusual.

What are some situations where "strange topic" might be inappropriate?

"Strange topic" might be inappropriate in highly sensitive or serious discussions where a more respectful or nuanced approach is needed. In such cases, opt for more neutral and objective language.