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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The intent of this article is to provide objective information; however, readers should be aware that the author may have a financial interest in the subject matter discussed. Joel Shulman, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025 But Daskalakis said seven months into the new administration, no CDC subject matter expert from his center had briefed Kennedy. Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2025 Leagues use arbitration for several reasons, including to have a subject matter expert oversee a dispute and to avoid a public-facing court system that media and fans can access and observe evidence and testimony. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 25 Aug. 2025 The 2002 documentary on Kerr's life displayed the mental and physical toll MMA fighting takes on its competitors, and trailers for the movie — which also stars Ryan Bader, Bas Rutten and Oleksandr Usyk — indicate the narrative film follows similar subject matter. Tommy McArdle, People.com, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for subject matter

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Subject matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subject%20matter. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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