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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.
It is constructed by careful choices in materials, coloration, and subject matter to enter the realm of conceptual art. Erin Parish, Miami Herald, 5 Dec. 2025 His subject matter spanned a wide breadth of subjects. Christine Baranski, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2025 Buckley added that the mood on set was a happy one despite the subject matter. Eric Andersson, PEOPLE, 4 Dec. 2025 While Secretary Linda McMahon assures that special education funding is secure, NPR found concerns among 40 parents, educators, disability rights advocates, subject matter experts and Education Department staff. NPR, 3 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 6 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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