the subject is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the subject is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing or discussing the main topic or focus of a sentence or discussion. Example: "In this essay, the subject is the impact of climate change on global agriculture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The subject is dancing.

The New York Times - Arts

"The subject is over.

The New York Times

The subject is hunger.

The New York Times

But the subject is painful.

The New York Times

Here the subject is Schubert.

The New York Times - Arts

The subject is deemed distasteful.

The Economist

The subject is not new.

The New Yorker

The subject is anything but.

Independent

The subject is worthy.

The New York Times - Sports

The subject is extraordinary.

The Guardian - Film

"The subject is taboo.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the subject is", ensure it clearly introduces the main topic to avoid ambiguity. For example, begin a paragraph with the phrase to immediately orient the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the subject is" when you're actually referring to an attribute or characteristic of the subject. Ensure the identified subject aligns with the core discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the subject is" serves primarily as a declarative statement to introduce or identify the central theme, topic, or focus of a discussion, analysis, or piece of writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a grammatically sound and widely used expression for setting context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

17%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the subject is" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI, used to explicitly introduce or define the central topic of discussion. Its frequency across diverse sources like The New York Times and Huffington Post underscores its widespread applicability. While appropriate for various contexts, it's particularly effective in formal and neutral settings, ensuring clarity and focus. To maximize its impact, use it to precisely orient your audience and avoid misidentifying the true subject. Consider alternatives like "the topic is" or "the focus is" to suit different nuances. By following these guidelines, you'll master the art of using "the subject is" for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the topic is

Replaces "subject" with "topic", a direct synonym, maintaining a neutral tone.

the focus is

Shifts from the broad concept of "subject" to the more specific idea of "focus", highlighting the central point.

the issue is

Emphasizes a problem or matter of debate, making it suitable for discussions of contentious subjects.

we're discussing

Adopts a more conversational tone, indicating an active discussion in progress.

this concerns

Highlights the relevance of the subject to a particular entity or group.

it's about

Uses a more informal and direct approach to introduce the subject.

this involves

Indicates that the subject includes multiple elements or aspects.

the matter at hand is

Emphasizes the immediacy and importance of the subject under consideration.

what we're dealing with is

Highlights the active engagement with the subject, often implying a challenge or complexity.

the central theme is

Focuses on the underlying idea or message, particularly in artistic or literary contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "the subject is" in a sentence?

Use "the subject is" to clearly introduce the main topic or focus of your discussion. For example: "In this report, the subject is renewable energy sources."

What are some alternatives to saying "the subject is"?

You can use alternatives like "the topic is", "the focus is", or "the issue is" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "the subject is"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "the subject is" when you want to explicitly identify what you are going to discuss. This is especially useful for clarity in academic or formal writing.

When should I use "the subject is" versus "it is about"?

"The subject is" is more formal and direct, suitable for academic or professional contexts. "It is about" is more informal and conversational. Use "the subject is" when precision and clarity are paramount.