subject of play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subject of play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing themes, topics, or elements that are explored or represented in a play or performance. Example: "The subject of play in this production revolves around the complexities of human relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Of course, the chapter could also become a subject of play, well beyond the self-conscious mentions in eighteenth-century novels.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Bean can get vitriolic on the subject of plays about nothing but relationships.

The Guardian

While we're on the subject of plays, a frequent lament of contemporary playwrights is that it's almost impossible to make a living out of their craft.

The Guardian

The novel, by Veniamin Kaverin, is loved by Russians of all ages and has been the subject of plays, an opera and two movies.

The New York Times

Corporate America being what it is, the subject of playing with one's food was presented not very playfully at all.

The New York Times

Oddly enough, the conventional home life of gay couples, the complexities of their relationships, rarely gets the kind of treatment it does here -- that is, the insistent exploration of ordinariness that is routinely the subject of plays about heterosexual couples.

The New York Times

On the subject of playing fields, he said that there was already adequate provision in the area - and that the facilities had been used by LGHS pupils and not for public use.

The Guardian

"Blech," is all Ms. Aniston had to offer on the subject of playing a Beverly Hills teenager being stalked by a 3-foot 4-inch killer dwarf in high buckled shoes.

The New York Times

Previews and Openings 'Botallack O'Clock' (previews start on Tuesday; opens on May 28) Roger Hilton may not have the name recognition of Mark Rothko and Stanley Spencer, two other 20th-century painters who became the subject of plays.

The New York Times

Women's friendships (I've seen both Gems's much revived play and Bullmore's sparky new one with the same female friend) have more often appeared as a side issue, an emotional colouring, than as the central subject of plays.

The Guardian

Not only was Mr. Rodrigues "passionate about O'Neill and intimately familiar with his work," she said; he also shared with O'Neill a fascination both for the power of nature as represented by the sea, which was demonstrated in "Our Lady of the Drowned," and for the warped inner workings of the dysfunctional family, the subject of plays like "The Seven Kittens" and "Family Album".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In theatrical reviews, "subject of play" can introduce a discussion of the play's core themes before delving into specific aspects like acting or set design.

Common error

Avoid using "subject of play" when you actually mean the plot or storyline. The subject is the underlying theme, while the plot is the sequence of events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject of play" functions primarily as a noun phrase that identifies the central theme, topic, or matter that a play explores. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subject of play" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-registered phrase used to identify the central theme or core idea of a theatrical work. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is effective in both formal analyses and casual discussions about plays. Alternatives like "theme of the play" or "topic of the play" offer similar meanings, allowing for stylistic flexibility. When employing the phrase "subject of play", ensure that it appropriately reflects the play's underlying message rather than simply referring to the plot.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

theme of the play

Replaces "subject" with "theme", focusing on the central idea explored.

topic of the play

Substitutes "subject" with "topic", highlighting the main matter discussed.

focus of the play

Changes "subject" to "focus", emphasizing the central point of attention.

matter of the play

Replaces "subject" with "matter", emphasizing the substance or content of the play.

content of the play

Replaces "subject" with "content", stressing the information or ideas within the play.

issue explored in the play

Shifts the focus to an "issue" being examined within the play.

premise of the play

Highlights the foundational idea or assumption upon which the play is based.

central idea of the play

Emphasizes the main concept or thought conveyed by the play.

driving force of the play

Highlights the primary factor motivating the play's plot or characters.

core concept of the play

Stresses the fundamental idea at the heart of the play.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "subject of play"?

Alternatives include "theme of the play", "topic of the play", or "focus of the play", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "subject of play" and "plot of play"?

The "subject of play" is the underlying theme or central idea, while the "plot of play" is the sequence of events that make up the story. The subject is the 'what', and the plot is the 'how' the story unfolds.

Is it appropriate to use "subject of play" in formal writing?

Yes, "subject of play" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in literary analysis or theatrical reviews. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and register of your piece.

Can "subject of play" refer to a specific character?

While less common, "subject of play" can indirectly relate to a character if the play primarily explores that character's life, experiences, or internal conflicts. More often, it refers to an abstract theme or concept.