subject matter
Americannoun
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the substance of a discussion, book, writing, etc., as distinguished from its form or style.
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the matter that is subject to some action.
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the matter out of which a thing is formed.
noun
Etymology
Origin of subject matter
First recorded in 1590–1600
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Also, one that — surprisingly for me, just given the subject matter — I really enjoyed this season, is “The Testaments.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026
Gouyon said Attenborough always made sure to direct the viewer's gaze back to the subject matter.
From Barron's • May 6, 2026
It’s the combination of storytelling chops, genuine enthusiasm, and subject matter expertise that makes this film exponentially better than your average band documentary.
From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026
Cooper told BBC News the musical will be "not just for wrestling fans - we want it to go way beyond that", adding that the subject matter lends itself well to the stage.
From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026
Have the objectives evolved since the last time the students engaged with this subject matter?Have the objectives evolved since the last time the students engaged with this subject matter?
From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
