the only matter

USAGE SUMMARY

"the only matter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to emphasize that something is the only problem or issue that needs to be considered. For example, "The only matter left to consider is how we will fund the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Meat is not the only matter.

The New York Times - Food

But offense is not the only matter concerning Van Gundy.

The New York Times - Sports

Futenma, it is worth noting, is not the only matter that the new government has raised.

The New York Times

Board diversity is not the only matter irking Urban Outfitters' shareholders.

The New York Times

The only matter as important as the submarine to Courtney's fortunes has been his fundraising.

The Washington Post

The criminal case is not the only matter that is bringing Mr. Combs to court.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

These are the only matters of objection to this indictment.

Cornell University

These are the only matters which are open for consideration.

Cornell University

The ethics issues were not the only matters in the race.

The New York Times

"The only thing that matters is trust.

Independent

"The only thing that matters is resistance".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the only matter" to clearly indicate the singular point of importance or focus in a discussion or argument.

Common error

Avoid using "the only matter" in simple situations where a more direct word like 'focus' or 'point' would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only matter" functions as a noun phrase that identifies and emphasizes a single, key item or point of consideration. It typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only matter" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase employed to emphasize the singular importance of a topic or issue. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is often found in news articles and academic papers, indicating a formal to neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the singularity of the issue to avoid overuse or misrepresentation. Alternatives such as "the only issue" or "the main thing" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole matter

Uses 'sole' instead of 'only' to emphasize singularity.

the only topic

Replaces 'matter' with 'topic', emphasizing the subject of discussion.

the single matter

Uses 'single' instead of 'only' to emphasize singularity.

the only importance

Replaces 'matter' with 'importance', highlighting significance.

the only concern

Replaces 'matter' with 'concern', focusing on a worry or issue.

the only point

Replaces 'matter' with 'point', directing attention to a specific idea.

the only subject

Replaces 'matter' with 'subject', denoting the theme under consideration.

the only question

Replaces 'matter' with 'question', emphasizing a query or issue to be resolved.

the only issue

Replaces 'matter' with 'issue', indicating a problem or point of contention.

the main thing

Shifts from 'matter' to 'thing', focusing on the primary element.

FAQs

How can I use "the only matter" in a sentence?

You can use "the only matter" to highlight the single most important aspect of a situation. For example, "In this negotiation, "the only matter" is securing the funding."

What can I say instead of "the only matter"?

You can use alternatives like "the only issue", "the only concern", or "the main thing" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "the only matter" and "the main thing"?

"The only matter" often implies a more formal or serious context, highlighting a key point of contention or importance. "The main thing" is generally more casual and can refer to something simply being the most important or relevant.

Is it better to use "the sole matter" or "the only matter"?

Both phrases convey a similar meaning, but "the sole matter" is slightly more emphatic and less common than "the only matter". The choice depends on the desired level of emphasis and formality.