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topic

/ˈtɒpɪk/
noun★Beginner— subject of discussion or interest
formal

A subject or issue that is discussed or considered in detail.

The professor chose a controversial topic for the debate.

The professor selected a debated subject that was contentious.

💡

Often used in academic, professional, or formal discussions.

informal

A theme or subject that is frequently discussed or written about.

Climate change is a hot topic these days.

Environmental issues are a widely discussed subject recently.

💡

Common in everyday conversations and media.

Collocations

hot topica subject that is currently very popular or widely discussedmain topicthe primary subject of discussion or focustopic of conversationthe subject being talked about

Synonyms

subjectthemeissuepointargument

Antonyms

irrelevanceunimportance

Related Phrases

on topicphrase
relevant to the subject being discussed
off topicphrase
not relevant to the subject being discussed

💡Pro Tip

Usage in Formal Contexts

In academic or professional settings, 'topic' is often used to refer to a subject of detailed discussion or analysis.

Common Collocations

Common collocations with 'topic' include 'hot topic', 'main topic', and 'topic of conversation'.

⚡Gold Rule

Relevance

When using 'topic', ensure the subject is relevant to the context of the discussion.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'topique', from Latin 'topicus', from Greek 'topikos', meaning 'of a place' or 'local'.

📝Usage Notes

The word 'topic' is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to a subject of discussion or interest. It can be used in academic, professional, or everyday conversations.

Word Breakdown

top
place or location
root
+
-ic
relating to
suffix
English Dictionary

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