what the lecture is about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what the lecture is about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to inquire or explain the main topic or subject matter of a lecture. Example: "Can you summarize what the lecture is about for those who couldn't attend?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It can be what the lecture is about, or what the reading is about.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In fact, I rarely knew what the lectures were about; I was too busy hoping not to be called on or being grateful that someone else was suffering the questions.

Huffington Post

Once, the lecture was about surviving death.

The New York Times

The lecture was about the nature of mercy.

The New Yorker

The lecture was not about cancer.

The New York Times - Health

The lecture is free.

The New York Times

"The lectures are outstanding".

Science Magazine

The lectures are long.

Vice

If you know what the teacher is talking about, the lecture will be less boring.

WikiHow

The way they are you have to listen to the whole lecture to work out what it is about" "Suggest you make the slides more text rich?

F1000Research

I couldn't even say "Oh boy" as a child without risking a lecture about what "boy" meant and what the importance of being a man was.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what the lecture is about" to clearly and directly inquire or state the central topic of a presentation or talk, ensuring clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "what the lecture is about" when referring to minor or tangential points. Ensure your question or statement reflects the lecture's primary focus to maintain relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what the lecture is about" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig shows this phrase introduces the central topic being addressed. It can be used in both direct questions or indirect statements.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what the lecture is about" serves as a grammatically sound phrase to inquire or express the main topic of a lecture. While Ludwig indicates its frequency is relatively rare, it's versatility across different contexts ensures its usefulness. When a more formal tone is needed, consider using alternatives like "the topic of the lecture". While "what the lecture is about" is usable in a variety of contexts, it should be limited to describe the primary focus to maintain relevancy. Ludwig's analysis underscores its role in clarifying the central theme of a presentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the lecture's subject matter

Replaces the interrogative structure with a direct noun phrase.

the lecture's topic

Substitutes "subject matter" with a more concise term.

the theme of the lecture

Uses "theme" instead of "topic" or "subject matter".

the lecture's focus

Emphasizes the central point or emphasis of the lecture.

what the lecture covers

Uses the verb "covers" to describe the content.

the content of the lecture

Refers directly to the material presented in the lecture.

the lecture's purpose

Focuses on the intended aim or goal of the lecture.

the point of the lecture

Highlights the key message or argument.

what the lecture aims to explain

Shifts the focus to the lecture's explanatory objective.

the lecture's main idea

Identifies the core concept being presented.

FAQs

How can I use "what the lecture is about" in a sentence?

You can use "what the lecture is about" to ask or state the topic of a lecture. For example: "Can you tell me "what the lecture is about"?" or "The title suggests "what the lecture is about"."

What is a more formal way to say "what the lecture is about"?

More formal alternatives include "the topic of the lecture", "the subject matter of the lecture", or "the lecture's theme". These options provide a more sophisticated tone while maintaining clarity.

Is it correct to say 'what's the lecture about'?

Yes, "what's the lecture about" is a grammatically correct and more colloquial way of asking "what the lecture is about". It is suitable for informal settings.

What is the difference between 'what the lecture is about' and 'what the lecture discusses'?

"What the lecture is about" refers to the central theme or subject, while "what the lecture discusses" implies a broader range of topics covered. The former focuses on the main point, and the latter on the content.