Matter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
matter
[หmadษr ]
Definitions
in physics
Physical substance in general, as distinct from mind and spirit; (in physics) that which occupies space and possesses rest mass, especially as distinct from energy.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| matter |
Usually refers to a topic or issue that needs to be discussed or dealt with, or something that occupies space and has mass in scientific terms.
|
| substance |
Used to describe the essential content or characteristic of something, or a particular kind of matter with uniform properties, often in a scientific context.
|
| material |
Refers to the physical elements used to create something or the content used in a lesson or presentation.
|
| stuff |
Informal usage referring to things in general, often when those things are not specified or important.
|
Examples of usage
- Matter is made up of particles.
- The universe is composed of matter and energy.
importance
The substance or content of a text, speech, etc., as distinct from form or style.
Synonyms
content, importance, substance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| matter |
When discussing something that is important or significant in a situation.
|
| content |
When referring to the topics, ideas, or subjects covered in a document, book, website, or other forms of communication.
|
| substance |
When referring to the physical material from which something is made, or the essential meaning or quality of something. Can also imply depth or significance.
|
| importance |
When emphasizing the value, significance, or impact of a subject or event.
|
Examples of usage
- It's the ideas that matter, not the words used to express them.
- The matter of the report is the financial situation of the company.
be important
Be of importance; have significance.
Synonyms
be important, be relevant, be significant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| matter |
This is used when you want to indicate that something has importance or makes a difference.
|
| be important |
This phrase emphasizes that something has considerable value or effect in a given situation.
|
| be significant |
This phrase is used to highlight that something is sufficiently great or meaningful, often in terms of impact.
|
| be relevant |
This phrase is appropriate when you want to show that something is closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand.
|
Examples of usage
- What matters most is that you are happy.
- It doesn't matter what other people think.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- There are three common states of matter: solids (like ice), liquids (like water), and gases (like steam).
- In physics, matter is defined not only by its physical properties but also by its ability to have mass and volume.
- Recent studies have identified a fourth state known as plasma, which is found in stars, including our sun.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have debated what matter is since ancient times, questioning whether itโs the core of reality or just a temporary state.
- In metaphysics, matter is often contrasted with spirit or mind, raising questions about the nature of existence.
- The dualism concept, proposed by Descartes, separates material substance from non-material, influencing various fields, including psychology.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'it matters' became popular in motivational speeches, emphasizing the importance of actions and choices.
- In science fiction, stories often revolve around the manipulation of matter, exploring themes of creation and destruction.
- Movies like 'The Matrix' play with the concepts of reality and perception, challenging viewers' understanding of what โmattersโ in their universe.
Psychology
- Research suggests that our perception of what matters in life significantly impacts our mental well-being and happiness.
- The term 'cognitive dissonance' describes the discomfort that arises when our beliefs about what matters conflict with our actions.
- In mindfulness, focusing on what truly matters can lead to a more fulfilling life, enriching our relationships and personal growth.
Origin of 'matter'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'materia,' meaning 'substance' or 'timber,' linking it to the physical world.
- In Middle English, the term evolved to include not just physical stuff but also ideas and concepts.
- Philosophers like Aristotle used the term to refer to the stuff that makes up everything in existence.
The word 'matter' originates from the Middle English 'matere', from Old French 'matere', from Latin 'materia' meaning 'timber, material, substance'. The concept of matter has been a fundamental part of philosophy and science since ancient times, with various theories and explanations developed over the centuries.