subject matter

noun

: matter presented for consideration in discussion, thought, or study

Examples of subject matter in a Sentence

I found the film's subject matter to be quite disturbing. She disapproves of the artist's choice of subject matter.
Recent Examples on the Web This policy was developed in collaboration with the Independent Monitoring Team, the Office of the Attorney General, subject matter experts and the consent decree calition. Larry Snelling, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2024 Ellis said that switching gears from acting to writing was challenging, even though the subject matter was familiar. Carly Tagen-Dye, Peoplemag, 5 June 2024 This method could ensure that students who are interested in the subject matter will have the option to take the class and would reduce the complication of integrating a new mandatory course in student schedules. Jennah Pendleton, Sacramento Bee, 3 June 2024 Their subject matter is brutal: men stripped naked and made to form a human pyramid with soldiers grinning behind them; a hooded man standing atop a box, hooked to electrical wires. Lucy McKeon, New York Times, 3 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for subject matter 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'subject matter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subject matter was in 1657

Dictionary Entries Near subject matter

Cite this Entry

“Subject matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subject%20matter. Accessed 12 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

subject matter

noun
: matter presented for consideration in discussion, thought, or study
the poem's subject matter

More from Merriam-Webster on subject matter

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