topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "topic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word "topic" to describe a subject or area of interest, or the main idea that a conversation or written passage is about. For example: "This chapter will discuss the topic of climate change and its effects on the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Over at another forum discussing the same topic (some folks are busy out there) there is indeed what appears to be a Google executive posting that recent changes in were "an enforcement of our viewcount policy".

The Guardian - Tech

The defence ministers of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were meeting on Thursday and the situation in the Baltic sea would be the "number one topic of the meeting", Siemoniak said.

The Guardian

Whenever the topic of the vast – and constantly expanding – wealth gap comes up for debate, it seems as if someone is always itching for the opportunity to resurrect those words, culminating in Fitzgerald's observation that the wealthy "think, deep in their hearts, that they are better than we are".

The Guardian - Money

In a broad-brush speech, which frequently touched on the topic of freedom and Berliners' resilience, he could not fail to mention the concern felt across Europe about more modern-day encroachments on individual liberty, the recent revelations of internet surveillance and US drone warfare – issues which dominated his 25-hour visit to the German capital.

The Guardian

It was only a strange error that led to the historical obsession with GDP As someone who has worked on these issues for three decades, I have observed that, sadly, most people who criticise the idea of measuring happiness are handicapped by the fact they know little about the research literature on the topic.

The Guardian

I started asking other women in my family about their first periods, and I found it was an electric topic".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The rush of migrants heading for Texas was a common topic of conversation in the community, Cecilia said – but not for her family.

The Guardian

We all knew that the travel was going to be a topic.

The Guardian - Sport

Widra, of Shady Grove, says that his clinic tries to get patients to address the topic proactively, "without drama and with good legal advice".

The Guardian

The ethics of rape jokes wouldn't have become a hot topic here and in the US if comics didn't rely on them for edgy lulz.

The Guardian

I now need to set my alarm, get to the library, make those notes I never made, read all the books under the sun, then organise my thoughts and prepare to persuasively argue on a given topic.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a new "topic", provide sufficient background information to ensure the audience understands the context.

Common error

Avoid choosing a "topic" that is too broad. Narrow your focus to allow for in-depth exploration and analysis within the given constraints.

Linguistic Context

The word "topic" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a subject of conversation, discussion, or writing. Ludwig examples show it used to introduce and define the main theme. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, "topic" is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "topic" is a noun that refers to the subject of a discussion or piece of writing. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in English. It's a very common word, widely used across various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples, including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When choosing a "topic", it's important to consider its scope and relevance to the audience. Related phrases include "subject matter", "theme", and "issue", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Subject

A general area of knowledge or discussion, very close in meaning to "topic".

Subject matter

Refers to the content or theme being discussed or studied, similar to "topic" but slightly more formal.

Theme

Emphasizes the central idea or message, often in artistic or literary contexts; slightly narrower than "topic".

Issue

Implies a matter of public concern or debate; more specific than a general "topic".

Area of discussion

More descriptive and less concise, but conveys the same general meaning.

Point

Refers to a specific idea or argument within a larger discussion; a component of a "topic".

Matter at hand

Indicates the specific issue or situation being considered, often implying urgency or importance.

Content

Focuses on the substance or material being discussed, similar to "topic" but more general.

Question

Highlights the inquiry or problem being addressed within the "topic".

Field

Denotes an area of study or activity, often broader than a specific "topic".

FAQs

How can I use "topic" in a sentence?

You can use "topic" to refer to the subject of a discussion, for example: "The main "subject" of the meeting was the budget."

What's a more formal synonym for "topic"?

A more formal synonym for "topic" is "subject matter", which is often used in academic or professional settings.

What are some related words to "topic"?

Related words include "theme", "issue", ""subject"", and "matter", each carrying slightly different connotations.

How do I choose a good "topic" for an essay?

Choose a "topic" that interests you, is relevant to the assignment, and has sufficient available research material. Ensure the "subject" is neither too broad nor too narrow.