subject matter

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.

subject matter

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of subject matter¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

He also stressed that he was "acutely aware of the sensitivity of the subject matter of the request" and some of the withheld information.

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I fear touch football has become the last nonradioactive subject matter at Thanksgiving.

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These days, art emphasizing subject matter often shunts form to the side, as if the visual analysis that form demands is irrelevant.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Kahlo’s “Dream” may have triumphed for several reasons, including its size and subject matter.

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Potentially fascinating subject matter, no doubt, but also a snooze, Nile tells Aggie.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• subject 
• text 
• topic