subjects in question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subjects in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to specific topics or individuals that are being discussed or examined. Example: "The researchers focused on the subjects in question to gather more accurate data for their study."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

These predictions were accompanied by confidence estimates and were evaluated in the light of actual responses reported later by the subjects in question.

Stanford University

The list covers all aspects of the game and leaves us in no doubt (despite the lack of cold, hard numbers) of how one should pluralise the subjects in question: Raft of substitutions The sole domain of largely meaningless international friendlies, where the second half becomes fragmented by the experimentation of both coaches as they seek to give debuts to their one-cap wonders.

The Guardian - Sport

(b.2) alternatively, they could admit that they do not have either technical or non-technical knowledge of any of the topics about which they sing; rather, they possess the skill (techne) of creating beautiful, persuasive, and moving images of the subjects in question.

SEP

Instead of constructing utility functions on the basis of single episodes, we must do so on the basis of observed runs of behavior once it has stabilized, signifying maturity of learning for the subjects in question and the game in question.

SEP

(Note that it isn't just that subjects learn to draw spatial inferences from the patterns of tactile stimulation; it is that those patterns themselves become imbued with spatial content. The subjects in question say that it has come to seem to them that there is a spherical object moving towards them, for example).

SEP

One possible explanation of this variation in antibody concentration is the hydration status of the subjects in question.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

That can cause business to get in the way of the show, making it even harder to keep the show's subject-in-question seeming real.

The New York Times - Arts

In that instance the prosecution history has established that the inventor turned his attention to the subject matter in question, knew the words for both the broader and narrower claim, and affirmatively chose the latter.

Cornell University

Where the original application once embraced the purported equivalent but the patentee narrowed his claims to obtain the patent or to protect its validity, the patentee cannot assert that he lacked the words to describe the subject matter in question.

Cornell University

He argued that any theory of a social phenomenon, including law, must identify its "central" cases, since the goal of any theory is to describe the central or important features of the subject matter in question.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Did the individual consult an attorney with appropriate expertise in the subject matter in question?

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subjects in question", ensure the context clearly defines what those subjects are. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

While "subjects in question" is grammatically correct, avoid using it in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "what we're talking about" or "the topic" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subjects in question" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to identify specific entities or topics that are under consideration or discussion. It helps to focus attention on the particular items of interest, as seen in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

36%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "subjects in question" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, typically employed to refer to specific topics or individuals under discussion or examination. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides various examples demonstrating its use in academic, scientific, and news contexts. While "subjects in question" is generally appropriate for formal contexts, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual settings. Its purpose is to clarify the focus of discussion, ensuring precise communication. Although not overly common, understanding its proper usage can enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

topics under consideration

Replaces "subjects" with "topics" and uses a more descriptive phrase, but retains the core meaning.

matters at hand

Substitutes "subjects" with "matters" and uses "at hand" instead of "in question" for a slightly more immediate feel.

issues being discussed

Replaces "subjects" with "issues" and uses a more active phrasing to emphasize the ongoing discussion.

concerns under review

Changes "subjects" to "concerns" and uses "under review" to suggest a more formal or investigatory context.

items in consideration

Substitutes "subjects" with "items" for a more general reference to things being considered.

points in debate

Emphasizes the debated nature of the subjects, replacing "subjects" with "points".

themes being explored

Replaces "subjects" with "themes" to focus on overarching ideas or concepts.

areas of inquiry

Suggests a more investigative or academic approach to the subjects, using "areas of inquiry".

aspects being analyzed

Focuses on the analytical aspect of the subjects, using "aspects" and "analyzed".

items under investigation

Conveys a sense of formal examination or scrutiny, using "items" and "under investigation".

FAQs

How can I use "subjects in question" in a sentence?

Use "subjects in question" to refer to specific topics or individuals being discussed or examined. For example: "The researchers focused on the "subjects in question" to gather more accurate data for their study."

What are some alternatives to "subjects in question"?

You can use alternatives like "topics under consideration", "matters at hand", or "issues being discussed" depending on the context.

Is "subjects in question" formal or informal?

"Subjects in question" leans towards a more formal register. In casual settings, simpler phrases like "what we're talking about" may be more appropriate.

How does "subjects in question" differ from "topics in question"?

While both are similar, "subjects in question" can refer to both topics and individuals being examined, whereas "topics in question" typically refers specifically to themes or subjects being discussed.