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.
“You really can’t copy the subject matter, but you can copy the formulation,” Grand said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 5, 2026
It goes deeper and darker, and the subject matter isn’t just broken hearts this time around.
From Salon ● Aug. 25, 2026
Its success is perhaps even more surprising given its subject matter - UK politics.
From BBC ● Aug. 15, 2026
Measure gravity by the statute’s subject matter rather than the defendant’s conduct and proportionality review approves everything.
From Slate ● Jul. 28, 2026
“The subject matter here is very intriguing. And the way you manipulate shadows is very impressive, especially for someone so young.”
From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman
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.
