matter
Translation
matter, substance, issue, subject
Examples
Solid, liquid, and gas are states of matter.
Solid, liquid, and gas are states of matter.
It's a serious matter.
It's a serious matter.
What's the matter?
What's the matter?
Grammar Patterns
a matter of ((sth.)) an issue of (sth.) It's a matter of time.
What's the matter? What is the problem? What's the matter? You look upset.
no matter ((what/who/etc.)) regardless of (what/who/etc.) I will help you, no matter what.
Similar Words
Synonyms: substance, issue, topic, problem
Etymology
From Latin 'materia', meaning 'substance, timber, material'.
Memory Tips
Think of the phrase 'What's the matter?'. It's asking 'What is the substance of the problem?', connecting the different meanings.