the matter is whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the matter is whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a discussion or inquiry about a specific issue or question that needs to be addressed. Example: "The matter is whether we should proceed with the project as planned or delay it for further evaluation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The crux of the matter is whether total war in its present form is justifiable, even when it serves a just purpose.

The New Yorker

One question likely to be asked during the investigation into the matter is whether any Ukrainian officials profited from the transactions.

The New York Times

Others were philosophical: "The crux of the matter is whether total war in its present form is justifiable, even when it serves a just purpose.

The Guardian - Books

Put simply, the crux of the matter is whether the legal concept of obscenity, which has traditionally applied only to sexually explicit material, will be extended to cover depictions of violence.

The New York Times - Arts

Volleys of press releases, slide decks, illustrations and calls for regulatory action followed.The crux of the matter is whether Comcast has the right to choose in what way and at what price other networks interconnect with its own.

The Economist

Rather, the matter is whether, given our current state of knowledge, the most parsimonious and economical explanation for the observations reported is that the material is of extraterrestrial origin.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

And also, the fact of the matter is that the larger matter is whether it's good or bad.

Huffington Post

No matter what fine ideas candidates may espouse, for Blair the key matter is whether they can achieve power.

The Guardian - Opinion

The other unresolved matter is whether the United States should declare that it would never be first to use nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

But to shareholder-democracy advocates, the matter is not whether options are a good idea.

The New York Times

Either way, the fact of the matter is that whether we like it or not, deceit is everywhere.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the matter is whether" to introduce the central point of contention or uncertainty in a discussion or analysis. This phrase works well when you want to clearly frame the core question.

Common error

While "the matter is whether" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in informal contexts. Simpler phrasing like "the question is" or "it depends on" might be more appropriate depending on the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the matter is whether" functions as an introductory phrase that sets up a question or a point of contention. It presents the core issue that needs to be addressed or decided. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the matter is whether" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a central question or point of contention. It is deemed correct and usable according to Ludwig. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, often in news and analytical contexts. It’s most appropriate in neutral to formal registers, and has several alternatives that can be used based on the specific context. Remembering these nuances can help writers effectively and appropriately use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the question is whether

Focuses more directly on posing a specific question to be answered.

the issue is whether

Highlights the problematic or contentious aspect needing resolution.

the crux of the matter is if

Emphasizes the most critical point or deciding factor.

the heart of the matter is if

Identifies the central and most important aspect of the topic.

the key question is if

Singles out the most important question to be addressed.

the central concern is if

Highlights the main worry or point of interest.

the point at issue is if

Pinpoints the exact point of disagreement or debate.

the real question is if

Suggests that the actual important inquiry may be different from what's apparent.

the essential thing is if

Highlights the fundamental aspect to consider.

what really matters is if

Underlines the aspects that are truly important for consideration.

FAQs

What does "the matter is whether" mean?

The phrase "the matter is whether" introduces the key question or point of discussion that needs to be resolved or considered. It highlights the central issue at hand.

What can I say instead of "the matter is whether"?

You can use alternatives such as "the question is whether", "the issue is whether", or "the crux of the matter is if" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "the matter is whether" formal or informal?

The phrase "the matter is whether" leans towards a more formal tone, suitable for academic, professional, or news contexts. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be preferable.

How to use "the matter is whether" in a sentence?

You can use "the matter is whether" to introduce the core question of a discussion. For example, "The matter is whether the company can sustain its growth in the current economic climate."