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.
The conservative commentator argued that treating movies differently because of their subject matter infringed on filmmakers’ constitutional rights. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 8 Oct. 2026 Having started out as an actor, his experimental camera work and daring subject matter while directing for an independent British network, ABC, had shaken some in the business. — Sean Wilentz, Rolling Stone, 6 Oct. 2026 The production faced its own real-life protests after locals caught wind of the film’s subject matter, the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reported. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 The lengthy process ensures that the team must avoid timely subject matter. — Marlow Stern, Variety, 2 Oct. 2026 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 13 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

subject matter

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

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