ultimate matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ultimate matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing fundamental concepts, philosophical ideas, or the essence of a subject. Example: "In our discussion of existence, we must confront the ultimate matter of what it means to be alive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Underlying their questions was a discernible subtext, one that involved not just habeas but the ultimate matter of the detainee's release.

The Guardian - Opinion

He declared that religion is not a "final and ultimate" matter but, instead, a matter of practice; the philosopher's absolute idea is incompatible with the God of religious men.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Must we remain passive victims of the medical-legal-religious establishment in this regard -- or do we have choice and power concerning this ultimate matter of how and when we die?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Dovlatov's ultimate subject matter is the difficult human journey: "The only honest path is the path of mistakes, disappointments and hopes," he writes.

The Guardian - Books

This is the second reason Kant held fundamental issues in ethics must be addressed with an a priori method: The ultimate subject matter of ethics is the nature and content of the principles that necessarily determine a rational will.

SEP

That plainly isn't true; it would be more accurate to say that being in a foxhole, or anywhere else where death is an ever-present possibility, makes you think about ultimate matters.

The Economist

After converting at a local mosque, he kept guzzling beer for a while; the switch to a strict, puritanical path came during an early brush with jail.Some things are obvious: in a lonely, fractured world, the bonds of the ummah, a global chain of "brothers" who agree on ultimate matters, had great appeal to Mr Storm.

The Economist

"I have the passing terror that it isn't so simple, that in these ultimate matters time is collapsed into a single moment in which you are forever in danger of having the knife tilt the other way, as though, if I am not careful between here and the parking lot, I might go astray and she will be canceled, stolen back by not-being, like a thief grabbing her through an open window.

Huffington Post

Black holes are the ultimate condensed matter state.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Planned expansion could pave way for "ultimate dark matter experiment".

Science Magazine

Prospective troop and naval movements are, of course, the gold standard of military secrets — the ultimate sensitive matters.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ultimate matter", ensure the context involves a discussion of fundamental truths, existential questions, or the very nature of reality. It is best suited for philosophical, scientific, or deeply reflective writing.

Common error

Avoid using "ultimate matter" in everyday conversation or informal writing. This phrase carries a weight of seriousness and can sound pretentious if used inappropriately. Consider alternatives like "main issue" or "key point" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ultimate matter" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a fundamental or essential issue, question, or substance. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it aligns with a focus on key underlying factors.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ultimate matter" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that denotes a core, fundamental issue or substance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and highlights its suitability for contexts requiring deep contemplation. While relatively rare in general usage, it finds its niche in news, encyclopedias, and scientific discussions. When writing, it's best to reserve "ultimate matter" for situations where you aim to convey the deepest level of importance or reality, while being aware that in more informal settings you should use other alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental concern

Focuses on the core importance of the issue at hand.

essential substance

Highlights the crucial underlying element or material.

final analysis

Emphasizes the concluding assessment or understanding.

basic essence

Refers to the inherent nature or quality of something.

ultimate reality

Addresses the deepest truth or state of existence.

key element

Identifies a critical component or aspect.

core principle

Stresses the foundational belief or rule.

primary focus

Points out the main area of attention or concentration.

underlying basis

Indicates the foundation upon which something rests.

crucial point

Highlights a significant aspect or consideration.

FAQs

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

You can use "ultimate matter" in a sentence to refer to a fundamental or essential question, such as, "The philosopher contemplated the "ultimate matter" of existence."

What phrases are similar to "ultimate matter"?

Similar phrases include "fundamental concern", "essential substance", or "final analysis", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "ultimate matter" a formal phrase?

Yes, "ultimate matter" is a formal phrase suitable for academic, philosophical, or scientific contexts. It's less appropriate for casual conversation.

In what fields is the phrase "ultimate matter" commonly used?

The phrase "ultimate matter" is commonly used in fields such as philosophy, physics, and theology, where fundamental questions about reality, existence, and the nature of the universe are explored.