the very subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the very subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a specific topic or matter being discussed, often to highlight its importance or relevance. Example: "In this debate, we must address the very subject of climate change and its impact on future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here, Lavant is the very subject of the film.

The New Yorker

The very subject of this speculation gets lost.

The Washington Post

After graduation, her work wins praise for the very subject matter her art school professors derided.

The Washington Post

And lo and behold, the Fed chairman gave a talk on the very subject last week.

The New York Times

"Pawn Sacrifice" also has little to say about the very subject of the film: chess.

The New Yorker

Even though our self-consciousness tempts us to raise the very subject we fear, resist.

The New York Times

He trusts in the system, and that system is the very subject of the opera.

The New Yorker

Recognition, however, is a double-edged sword — and that's the very subject of "The Commuter".

The New Yorker

The very subject of "Stronger" is the fear of demagogy of unfairly pursuing unwarranted adulation.

The New Yorker

That insubordination, the actor's resistance to direction, is the very subject of Greene's "Kate Plays Christine".

The New Yorker

The movie does more than elicit its participants' memories of the war; it addresses the very subject of memory.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the very subject" to emphasize the core topic being discussed, particularly when highlighting its importance or relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "the very subject" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the topic" or "the issue" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the very subject" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It emphasizes a particular topic or matter, as supported by Ludwig AI's assessment and the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

24%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the very subject" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that emphasizes the importance of a particular topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a noun phrase to highlight the core focus of a discussion or piece of writing. While appropriate in various contexts, it should be used judiciously in informal settings to avoid sounding overly formal. Its frequency is very high, especially in News & Media and Academic content. Remember to consider the context and intended emphasis when deciding whether to use "the very subject" or a simpler alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the specific topic

Emphasizes a particular topic, removing the intensifier 'very'.

the main topic

Highlights the primary topic, simplifying the expression.

the central theme

Focuses on the overarching theme, shifting from subject to theme.

the core issue

Emphasizes the fundamental issue, altering the perspective.

the precise matter

Highlights accuracy, replacing 'very' with 'precise'.

the exact theme

Highlights the theme, removing the intensifier 'very'.

the particular subject

Emphasizes a particular subject, softening the expression.

the matter at hand

Focuses on the current matter, slightly changing the tone.

the issue in question

Points to a specific issue, adding a layer of formality.

the focal point

Shifts the emphasis to the focal point, changing the structure.

FAQs

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

You can use "the very subject" to emphasize the main topic of discussion. For example, "The very subject of this meeting is the budget for next year."

What are some alternatives to "the very subject"?

Alternatives include "the specific topic", "the main topic", or "the core issue" depending on the specific context and the level of emphasis you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "the very subject" in academic writing?

Yes, "the very subject" is appropriate in academic writing to highlight a particular topic or theme that is central to your analysis or argument.

What's the difference between "the subject" and "the very subject"?

While "the subject" refers to the general topic, "the very subject" adds emphasis, highlighting that it is the most important or essential topic under consideration.