subject matter

American  

noun

1. the substance of a discussion, book, writing, etc., as distinguished from its form or style.

2. the matter that is subject to some action.

3. the matter out of which a thing is formed.

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subject matter British  

noun

1. the substance or main theme of a book, discussion, debate, etc

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Etymology

Origin of subject matter

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

And at some point I realized that it felt a little bit like putting a hat on a hat with the subject matter, so I changed it to her putting together this musical.

From Los Angeles Times

“But given the subject matter, it makes sense for them to target this film more to Middle America.”

From MarketWatch

Despite its serious subject matter, the novel is neither morbid nor morose.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s an aversion in Hollywood’s animation to engage with challenging subject matter or to consider that adult viewers can also find enjoyment in animated projects catered to them.

From Los Angeles Times

Challenged about whether some of his work has involved other-than-appropriate subject matter for comedy, Mr. Brooks grows serious.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• subject
• text
• topic