Matter (everyday usage)
Matter is a subject, situation, or affair under consideration. It can also mean a concern or problem that calls for attention.
Subject: A person, thing, or topic being discussed, studied, or represented. A matter under consideration is often the subject of a discussion.
Matter of fact: A manner of speaking that presents information plainly and without visible emotion. This phrase uses matter to mark a question of fact or reality.
Problem: A difficulty or obstacle that requires thought or action to resolve. Unlike matter, problem usually implies something is wrong or needs solving.
Consideration: Careful thought given to a question, proposal, or circumstance. A matter is often defined by being the object of consideration.
Issue: A point of dispute, concern, or discussion requiring attention or decision. A matter can name an issue that people are trying to resolve.
Subject matter: The topic or content addressed by a work, discussion, or field of study. This compound names the specific material a discussion or work concerns.
Question: A sentence or issue that asks for information, explanation, or judgment. A question is one form a matter can take, but matter need not ask anything.
Discussion: An exchange of ideas or arguments about a subject or question. Matters under consideration commonly become subjects of discussion.
Concern: A subject or situation that causes interest, attention, or worry. A matter may be described as a concern when it affects someone personally.
Matter of law: A legal question decided by applying law rather than resolving disputed facts. Legal usage narrows a matter to a question for legal judgment.