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.
Manas opened in Brazil a few days ago, and the Women in Motion honor will bring wider awareness to both the film and its subject matter. Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 18 May 2025 Beyond the subject matter in Unbound, this film is a lesson in post-commercials-marketing. Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 Taking the role in Yellow Face was a risk for Dae Kim — though not because of its subject matter. Dave Quinn, People.com, 16 May 2025 This makes sense in a line of work where exposition is the name of the game and there is a dogged thoroughness and a precision with terminology that suits the subject matter. Sophie Monks Kaufman, IndieWire, 15 May 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 24 May. 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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