topics on which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "topics on which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to specific subjects or themes that are being discussed or analyzed. Example: "There are several topics on which we need to reach a consensus before moving forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The topics on which one could engage him — the latest books, movies, or other current affairs — went the way of his deteriorating focus.

The New Yorker

The topics on which one could engage him the latest books, movies, or other current affairs went the way of his deteriorating focus.

The New Yorker

Table 3 shows the most important topics on which currently one or more projects are under way.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Illegal immigration is one of those topics on which almost everyone has an opinion -- maybe several.

The Washington Post

Security is just one of the topics on which Trudeau walked a conflicted middle ground, and has appeared to come out on top.

Vice

The gusty winds, heavy rains and ocean swells that hurricanes produce do not know the difference between Guantánamo and Galveston, which has made the weather one of the few topics on which the United States and Cuban governments regularly engage.

The New York Times

Logic was one of the main topics on which Peirce wrote.

SEP

The theme of longevity or persistence of the family is one of the main topics on which to focus the theoretical and empirical contributions on the family business.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Among the topics on which President Trump seeks her counsel, she said, is whether he should keep tweeting.

The Washington Post

— Do you think there are certain topics on which children or teenagers can give better advice than adults?

The New York Times

On the left of the screen is a list of topics on which video or written advice is offered.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "topics on which", ensure the sentence maintains a clear subject-verb agreement to avoid ambiguity. For example: "These are the "topics on which" the committee focused its investigation".

Common error

Avoid using "topics on which" in very informal settings. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation or writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "topics that" or "subjects about".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "topics on which" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing subjects of discussion, analysis, or debate. It connects a noun (topics) with a relative clause specifying further information about those topics. As Ludwig shows, it is frequently used to introduce subjects needing clarification or agreement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "topics on which" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, primarily functioning as a prepositional phrase. It serves to introduce subjects for discussion or analysis and is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While generally neutral to formal, as Ludwig AI validates, it’s best suited for more formal settings. For informal scenarios, consider alternatives like "subjects that". Remember to maintain clear subject-verb agreement for effective communication. By understanding its context and usage, you can confidently employ "topics on which" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subjects that

More direct and less formal alternative.

themes regarding

Focuses more on overarching themes rather than specific subjects.

areas where

Emphasizes specific domains or fields of discussion.

matters about which

A more formal way of introducing a topic.

points that

Highlights specific issues or arguments.

aspects concerning

Focuses on particular facets or dimensions of a broader topic.

questions relating to

Specifically refers to queries or issues under consideration.

concerns regarding

Highlights issues of worry or importance.

fields in which

Refers to academic or professional disciplines.

issues surrounding

Draws attention to contentious or debated subjects.

FAQs

How can I use "topics on which" in a sentence?

The phrase "topics on which" is used to introduce subjects being discussed or analyzed. For example, "There are several "topics on which" we need to reach a consensus."

What are some alternatives to "topics on which"?

You can use alternatives like "subjects that", "themes regarding", or "areas where" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "topics on which" or "topics that"?

"Topics on which" is more formal and can be used in academic or professional contexts, while "topics that" is more common in everyday language.

What is the difference between "topics on which" and "issues surrounding"?

"Topics on which" generally introduces subjects for discussion or analysis, whereas "issues surrounding" often implies contentious or debated subjects.