matter
Translation
issue, subject, substance
Examples
What's the matter?
What's the matter?
It is a matter of great importance.
It is a matter of great importance.
All matter is made of atoms.
All matter is made of atoms.
Grammar Patterns
a matter of ((sth.)) a subject connected with (sth.) It's a matter of opinion.
Similar Words
Synonyms: issue, substance, subject, topic; Antonyms: nothing, void
Etymology
From Latin 'materia' meaning 'substance, stuff, timber'.
Memory Tips
Think of the physical 'matter' that makes up the universe. This can extend to the 'substance' or 'subject' of a discussion.