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 subject matter sounds heavy, but the theme song turns to be… to borrow a phrase… actually romantic — romantic about love, and about life itself, against some obvious odds. Chris Willman, Variety, 14 Nov. 2025 But the subject matter offers plenty of grist for the mill for an interviewer. Thomas Page, CNN Money, 11 Nov. 2025 His job was subject matter expertise. Neil Senturia, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Nov. 2025 There is no way to find a breakdown by age, reading level, or subject matter. PC Magazine, 7 Nov. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Subject matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subject%20matter. Accessed 15 Nov. 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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