topical matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "topical matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing subjects or themes that are relevant or currently being discussed in a particular context. Example: "The conference will focus on topical matter related to climate change and its impact on global economies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Another speaker with a lot to say about a topical matter is Lord Guyy) Black, executive director of the Telegraph Media Group, and architect of the Press Complaints Commission's replacement, the Independent Press Standards Organisation (Ipso).

The Guardian

And it was a further four-and-a-half years before Comment is Free helped to shape blogging into the format we now know and love – short, pithy commentary on a highly topical matter followed by a string of often fierce, passionate views posted by readers.

The Guardian - Tech

Based upon the final recommendations on the topical matter of the workshop, several trends become apparent.

International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer

The safety of railway operation under wind actions has recently become a topical matter due to the development of high-speed trains, which are very sensitive to crosswind conditions.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Alas, New Times, which lasted through the 1970s, closed because its general interest topical subject matter was not as attractive to advertisers as the new "targeted" subject matter.

The Guardian - Opinion

But although Turner may not have freed painting from literary or topical subject matter, he certainly marginalised those sources.

The Guardian - Arts

Mr. Banks's tough, sprawling novel is his best in years, tackling difficult and topical subject matter.

The New York Times - Books

His first hit in 1967, The Laughing Gnome, was a novelty single that still causes him embarrassment, and then his first bona fide smash came two years after that, given a massive leg-up thanks to its topical subject matter.

The Guardian - Music

The play was to be produced next season, but Mr. Gurney convinced the Flea's artistic director, Jim Simpson, who is also directing, that the topical subject matter needed to be seen right away.

The New York Times

With its high production values and topical subject matter, the silent 30-minute film "Refraction" by the Dutch artist Aernout Mik is like an update of Beaux-Arts history painting.

The New York Times

Jeremy Clarkson joins Guardian drive for fossil fuel divestment At first glance, this had the lot: a slick video featuring star names like Sophie Raworth and Owen Jones, a pun in the headline, a topical subject matter – even a hired look-alike!

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "topical matter" when you want to emphasize that a subject is not only relevant but also currently being discussed or is of immediate importance. For instance, it's well-suited for academic discussions, news reports, or professional settings where up-to-date information is crucial.

Common error

While "topical matter" is perfectly acceptable, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "current issue" or "what's trending" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "topical matter" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "topical" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "matter". It designates a subject or issue that is currently relevant or under discussion. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "topical matter" is a correct and usable English phrase best suited for describing issues or subjects that are currently relevant and under discussion. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, though its usage is relatively rare. While it can appear in various contexts, it's most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific discussions. Consider using it when you need to emphasize the current relevance of a topic, but be mindful of sounding overly formal in casual settings. Alternatives such as "current issue" or "relevant subject" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

current issue

Replaces "matter" with "issue", focusing on a specific problem or concern that is currently relevant.

relevant subject

Substitutes "topical" with "relevant" and "matter" with "subject", emphasizing the pertinence of the subject being discussed.

timely subject

Emphasizes the importance of the subject in relation to the present time.

contemporary topic

Replaces "topical" with "contemporary" and "matter" with "topic", highlighting the modern relevance of the subject.

present-day concern

Focuses on issues that are currently causing worry or attention.

burning question

Highlights an issue that is intensely debated or of great current importance.

pressing issue

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the matter at hand.

hot topic

This is more informal and emphasizes that a matter is currently very popular and widely discussed.

up-to-date subject

Focuses on the fact that the matter is recent and reflects the latest information.

current affair

This phrase is broader and often refers to political or social events of current interest.

FAQs

How can I use "topical matter" in a sentence?

You can use "topical matter" to refer to subjects or themes that are relevant or currently being discussed. For instance, "The conference focused on "topical matter" related to climate change".

What can I say instead of "topical matter"?

Alternatives include "current issue", "relevant subject", or "timely subject" depending on the specific context.

Is "topical matter" formal or informal?

"Topical matter" leans towards formal usage. In more casual settings, phrases like "what's trending" or "hot topic" might be more appropriate.

What distinguishes "topical matter" from "urgent matter"?

"Topical matter" refers to subjects of current interest or relevance, while "urgent matter" signifies an issue requiring immediate attention. "Topical" emphasizes relevance; "urgent", immediacy.