subject matter

noun

Synonyms of subject matternext
: 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.
Flowers, food and other consumable items — within reasonable quantities — are permitted, as are copies of books presented by an author, provided the subject matter isn’t controversial. Erin Hill, PEOPLE, 25 Dec. 2025 But even if the question is difficult or the subject matter is grim, there is a kind of fundamental pleasure in thinking about those things. Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 22 Dec. 2025 Despite the rich visuals and heavy subject matter, the film itself feels subtle and restrained, the surreal plot artfully revealing itself to the viewer piece by devastating piece. Anastasia Sanger, Glamour, 22 Dec. 2025 Does the subject matter of a film, and more specifically the subject matter that you’ll be required to discuss ad nauseam during the press tour, ever influence your decision to take a role? Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 19 Dec. 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 29 Dec. 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

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