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matter
/ˈmætə/
When used to mean physical substance, "matter" is an uncountable noun. You cannot say "a matter" to refer to a piece of physical material. When used to mean a subject or situation, "matter" is a countable noun. In this sense, you can use it with articles (e.g., "a private matter", "the matter at hand"). As a verb, "matter" is always intransitive, meaning it does not take a direct object. You cannot "matter something"; instead, something simply "matters" to someone.
💬Casual Conversation
i'm totally bombing this essay. does it even matter if i turn it in late?
yes, obviously. stop slacking and just grind it out.
Meanings
Physical substance in general, as distinct from mind and spirit; substance of which a thing is composed.
"Scientists are studying the properties of dark matter."
A subject or situation under consideration.
"I will discuss this matter with my lawyer before making a decision."
To be of importance or significance.
"It doesn't matter which color you choose; they both look great."
Examples
Listen, it doesn't matter who started the fight!
Look, this whole matter is just way too complicated.
Does it really matter if we're ten minutes late?
I cannot believe you're making a matter of this now!
The dark matter theory is honestly just fascinating.
I'll handle this matter privately, if you don't mind.
It doesn't matter what the boss said yesterday!
Wait, does that actually matter for the final grade?
Everything is just... organic matter in the end.
Please, just tell me what the matter is!