Topic Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide

Meaning 1：subject of discussion (topic)

topic 🔊

/ˈtɑːpɪk/

A subject or matter that people talk or write about.

Topic conversation illustration with thought bubble and mind map

subject of discussion 🔊

➕

/ˈsʌbdʒɪkt əv dɪˈskʌʃən/

A topic is a specific subject, idea, or issue that people talk, write, or think about in a given context.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'topos' (place) via Latin 'topica' (general principles of argument).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of 'top' as the main point; a topic is the top subject people discuss.

📖 Example

During the family dinner, the topic of conversation was our upcoming summer vacation plans. 🔊 During the family dinner, the topic of conversation was our upcoming summer vacation plans.

🔗 Collocations

bring up a topic – introduce a subject for discussion

hot topic – a subject that is widely discussed or controversial

cover a topic – to include or discuss a subject thoroughly

🔄 Synonyms

subject (n.) – a person or thing that is being discussed, dealt with, or studied

theme (n.) – the central or recurring idea in a discussion or creative work

issue (n.) – an important subject or problem that people are talking about

🚫 Antonyms

aside (n.) – a remark that is not part of the main subject of discussion

digression (n.) – a temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing

🌱 Derivatives

topical (adj.) – relating to a particular subject; currently relevant

topically (adv.) – in a way that relates to a subject or current events

topicality (n.) – the quality of being currently relevant or interesting

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'topic' derives from Aristotle's 'Topica', a treatise on common argumentative themes. In modern English, it refers to the subject of any discussion or written work.