touchy subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "touchy subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to a sensitive or delicate topic that people may find uncomfortable or difficult to discuss. Example: The topic of politics was a touchy subject at the family dinner, as everyone had different opinions and it could easily lead to arguments.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a touchy subject.

The New York Times - Health

O.K., touchy subject.

The New York Times - Arts

Advertising is another touchy subject.

The Economist

This is a touchy subject.

The New York Times

"Religion is a touchy subject.

The New York Times

Competence was a touchy subject.

The Guardian - Arts

It's a very touchy subject.

The Guardian - Business

Cremated remains are a particularly touchy subject.

The New York Times

But it is rather a touchy subject.

The Economist

But compensation can be a touchy subject.

The New York Times

"He knows it's a touchy subject".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In highly formal academic writing, consider replacing it with "sensitive issue" or "delicate matter" to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid using "touchy subject" when you actually mean a "touchy person". While a subject is sensitive by nature, a "touchy person" is someone who is oversensitive or easily offended by any topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "touchy subject" acts as a noun phrase where the adjective "touchy" (meaning sensitive or oversensitive) modifies the noun "subject". According to Ludwig AI, it typically functions as a subject or a predicate nominative in a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki & General Knowledge

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academic Research

1%

Legal Documents

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "touchy subject" is a highly effective and ubiquitous English idiom used to denote topics that are sensitive, controversial or emotionally charged. Data from Ludwig AI confirms its frequent appearance in prestigious publications like The New York Times and The Economist, where it is used to describe everything from political tensions to personal grievances. It is grammatically sound and universally understood, making it a reliable choice for writers who need to acknowledge the delicacy of a topic without being overly clinical. While more formal alternatives like "delicate matter" exist, "touchy subject" remains the gold standard for describing a situation that requires tact and careful navigation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delicate matter

More formal and suggests a need for precision or careful diplomacy.

sensitive issue

The most neutral and professional alternative for broader contexts.

sore point

Indicates a specific topic that causes personal pain or irritation to someone.

thorny question

Implies the subject is not just sensitive but also complex and difficult to solve.

contentious topic

Emphasizes the likelihood of the subject causing an argument or disagreement.

awkward subject

Focuses on the social discomfort rather than the potential for offense.

hot potato

An idiom for a controversial issue that people want to avoid taking responsibility for.

taboo subject

Indicates a topic that is socially forbidden or extremely restricted in conversation.

polarizing theme

Highlights that the subject divides people into two sharply contrasting groups.

emotional issue

Focuses on the heavy feelings the topic invokes rather than its sensitivity.

FAQs

How to use "touchy subject" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe any controversial topic, for example: "Politics remains a "touchy subject" at many family gatherings."

What is a more professional way to say "touchy subject"?

In a business or academic environment, you might prefer phrases like "sensitive issue" or "delicate matter".

Is "touchy subject" considered informal?

It is generally neutral. While it appears frequently in reputable news sources like "The New York Times", it has a slightly more conversational feel than "contentious issue".

What does it mean when someone says a topic is a "touchy subject"?

It means the topic is likely to cause offense, anger, or discomfort if brought up, often because it is a "sore point" for the people involved.