which matters

USAGE SUMMARY

"which matters" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a particular element of the context you are discussing. For example, "I believe the key to success is hard work, which matters more than talent alone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Which matters?

The New York Times - Magazine

None of which matters.

Independent

Which matters most?

The Guardian - Sport

"Which matters more?" Ashcroft asks.

The Guardian - Opinion

Or "I protect that which matters most".

The New York Times

They have to decide which matters more.

The Guardian - Opinion

They have defensive standouts everywhere, which matters at Safeco Field.

The New York Times

That's the only thing which matters to me".

The New York Times

Of what I know from this, which matters more?

The New York Times - Arts

None of which matters, except maybe for Jennifer Jones.

The New York Times

LONDON — Which matters more in dance: energy or synchronicity?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "which matters", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being compared or evaluated. This will enhance clarity and prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "which matters" when the subject's importance is already universally acknowledged. Reserve it for situations requiring comparison or prioritization.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which matters" functions as a relative clause, modifying a preceding noun or clause by specifying what is significant or important. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically sound and commonly employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which matters" is a grammatically correct and frequently used relative clause that serves to emphasize the relevance or importance of a specific element. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for a wide range of contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, maintaining a neutral register. When using "which matters", ensure clarity by establishing a clear context for comparison or evaluation. Avoid using it when importance is already self-evident. Related phrases such as "that is important" or "what is of consequence" can provide alternative ways to express significance. It is a versatile phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, for highlighting crucial aspects in various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is significant

Replaces "matters" with a direct synonym emphasizing importance.

that is important

Uses a common synonym for "matters", highlighting relevance.

that is relevant

Focuses on the pertinence or applicability of something.

what is of consequence

Emphasizes the impact or result of something.

what carries weight

Highlights the importance or influence of something.

what holds significance

Stresses the meaning or importance of something.

what has implications

Focuses on the potential future effects or consequences.

what is consequential

Replaces "matters" with an adjective emphasizing importance of impact.

what is vital

Highlights the essential nature of something.

that is of importance

Uses a more formal tone to emphasize significance.

FAQs

How can I use "which matters" in a sentence?

Use "which matters" to highlight the most important aspect when comparing options. For example, "Choosing between speed and accuracy, accuracy is the element "which matters" more in this experiment".

What are some alternatives to "which matters"?

Alternatives include "that is important", "what is of consequence", or "what carries weight", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "which matters" differ from "that matters"?

"Which matters" is typically used in nonrestrictive clauses, adding extra information. "That matters" is used in restrictive clauses, essential for defining the noun it modifies. For example, "The quality "that matters" most is consistency."

When is it appropriate to use "which matters more" instead of "which matters"?

Use "which matters more" when explicitly comparing two or more items to determine which has greater significance. For example, "When deciding between two job offers, consider "which matters more": salary or work-life balance".