A2noun 1K

Matter

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈmætə(r)/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈmætər/"]/

Meaning of Matter

used (to ask) if somebody is upset, unhappy, etc. or if there is a problem

In simple words: A subject or issue that needs to be discussed or considered.

Matter in a sentence

• Does it really matter what others think of you?
• The teacher told us to focus on the matter at hand.
• In science class, we learned that matter can change forms.
• Please let me know if you have any matter to discuss during the meeting.
• Water is a common form of matter that we encounter every day.

How to use Matter

Used when something is important or relevant to someone. More common in informal contexts when discussing personal feelings or opinions. Avoid using it in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

matter + to + someone

Memory hint

Think of 'matter' like a 'matter of importance' – if it matters, it’s significant!

Related words

Collocations with Matter

• important
• pressing
• serious
• bring up
• broach
• raise
• be related to
• pertain to
• relate to
• in a/​the matter
• on a/​the matter
• matter for
• the crux of the matter
• the heart of the matter
• let the matter drop
• complicate
• confuse
• make worse
• solid
• organic
• vegetable
• solid
• organic
• vegetable

Synonyms for Matter

• affair
• things
• question
• actually

Opposites of Matter

• trifle
• insignificance

Common mistakes with Matter

• Confusing 'matter' with 'material' — they have different meanings.
• Using 'mattered' instead of 'matter' in present tense situations.
• Overusing 'matter' in every situation — it’s better for specific contexts.

Frequently asked questions about Matter

What does Matter mean?

A subject or issue that needs to be discussed or considered.

What is the definition of Matter?

used (to ask) if somebody is upset, unhappy, etc. or if there is a problem

How do you use Matter in a sentence?

Does it really matter what others think of you?

Can you give another example of Matter?

The teacher told us to focus on the matter at hand.

What are synonyms for Matter?

Common alternatives include affair, things, question, actually.

What is the opposite of Matter?

Opposite meanings include trifle, insignificance.

What words go with Matter?

It commonly pairs with important, pressing, serious, bring up, broach, raise, be related to, pertain to, relate to, in a/​the matter, on a/​the matter, matter for, the crux of the matter, the heart of the matter, let the matter drop, complicate, confuse, make worse, solid, organic, vegetable, solid, organic, vegetable.

What are common mistakes when using Matter?

Confusing 'matter' with 'material' — they have different meanings. Using 'mattered' instead of 'matter' in present tense situations. Overusing 'matter' in every situation — it’s better for specific contexts.

How do you pronounce Matter?

US: /["/ˈmætər/"]/, UK: /["/ˈmætə(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Matter?

Used when something is important or relevant to someone. More common in informal contexts when discussing personal feelings or opinions. Avoid using it in very formal writing.

What CEFR level is Matter?

"Matter" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.