Subject Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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subject
[ˈsʌbdʒɪkt ]
Definitions
school
A particular branch of study or learning.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subject |
Used when referring to the general area of knowledge or study, or the main focus of a discussion.
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| topic |
Used for specific subjects of discussion, writing, or study, usually narrower than a 'subject'.
|
| theme |
Used when referring to the underlying message or central idea of a piece of writing, artwork, or conversation.
|
| area |
Used to refer to a specific field or domain of activity, expertise, or study.
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Examples of usage
- She is studying the subject of history.
- Mathematics is a challenging subject for many students.
conversation
The person or thing that is being discussed or dealt with.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subject |
Used when talking about an area of knowledge or study, or the main theme of a conversation or document.
|
| topic |
Used when referring to the subject of a conversation or a piece of writing. It's often used in casual or academic settings.
|
| issue |
Used when referring to a problem or point of concern. It often has a more negative connotation.
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| matter |
Used when referring to a topic or situation that requires consideration or discussion. It’s often used in formal or serious contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The main subject of our discussion was the upcoming project.
- Please stay on the subject during the meeting.
conversation
To cause someone or something to experience a particular state or emotion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subject |
Used when putting someone in a situation where they may experience something, often something unpleasant or challenging.
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| expose |
Used when revealing something hidden or making someone experience something, often something harmful or risky.
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| endure |
Refers to the act of experiencing and surviving a difficult or painful situation over a period of time.
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| undergo |
Refers to going through a process or experience, often involving change or something challenging.
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Examples of usage
- The movie subject him to intense emotions.
- The patients were subjected to various tests.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In schools, subjects are usually divided into categories like mathematics, science, literature, and history, each focusing on different areas of knowledge.
- Interdisciplinary studies blend subjects, showing how they connect, such as combining science with art in environmental design.
- Curriculum development emphasizes the importance of subjects in learning, aiming to create well-rounded education.
Psychology
- In psychological studies, the term 'subject' often refers to an individual or group being examined in research.
- Experiments may focus on behavior under different subjects, illustrating how people react based on context and situation.
- The subject's environment and previous experiences greatly affect their responses in psychological tests.
Pop Culture
- In literature and film, subjects often drive the plot; stories revolve around central ideas like love, conflict, or adventure.
- Genres of music frequently have specific subjects, like love songs, protest songs, or party anthems, shaping their themes and audience.
- Tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons often revolve around subjects, including fantasy elements and character development.
Philosophy
- In philosophical discussions, the subject refers to the self or the mindful observer, highlighting concepts of identity and consciousness.
- Existentialism critiques what it means to be a subject in a world filled with pre-defined roles and expectations.
- The relationship between a subject and an object is key in understanding agency and perception in philosophical debates.
Origin of 'subject'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'subiectus', meaning 'thrown under', indicating a foundation or base of discussion.
- In the Middle Ages, the term was used to describe people who were under the rule of a king or lord, reflecting their controlled status.
- Over time, 'subject' evolved to refer more broadly to themes of study and discussion in various disciplines.
The word 'subject' originated from the Latin word 'subiectus', which means 'lying beneath'. In English, the word evolved to mean a branch of study or a topic of discussion. Over time, its usage expanded to include topics of conversation and the act of causing someone to experience something. The word has been in use for centuries and remains an important part of communication and education.
See also: subjection, subjective, subjectively, subjectiveness, subjectivism, subjectivity, subjects.