topic
TO-pihk
Topic (noun) means a subject that is being discussed, written about, or thought about. Example: “Climate change was the main topic of the debate.”
noun
1
A subject that is being discussed, written about, or thought about.
"Climate change was the main topic of the debate."
"Let's change the topic — this is getting awkward."
"The teacher asked us to choose a topic for our class presentation."
How to use topic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWhat a conversation, essay, or discussion is actually about.
Common pairings
change the topic
topic of conversation
hot topic
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Word forms
- Plural
- topics
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Climate change was the main _____ of the debate.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek topikós ("pertaining to a place or a common theme"), via Latin topica.
Related words
Rhymes for topic
See all rhymes for topic →Frequently asked questions
What does “topic” mean?
The word “topic” means a subject that is being discussed, written about, or thought about. In plain terms, what a conversation, essay, or discussion is actually about.
How do you pronounce “topic”?
“Topic” is pronounced TO-pihk (/ˈtɑpɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “topic” in a sentence?
Here is “topic” used in a sentence: “Climate change was the main topic of the debate.”
What part of speech is “topic”?
“Topic” is a noun.
Where does the word “topic” come from?
The word “topic” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek topikós ("pertaining to a place or a common theme"), via Latin topica.
Is “topic” a common word?
“Topic” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between a topic and a subject?
A subject is a broad field, like history or music. A topic is a narrower point within it that you actually discuss or write about — for example, 'jazz in the 1920s.' In short, a topic is a specific slice of a larger subject.
What is the difference between a topic and a theme?
A topic is what a piece of writing is literally about — its subject on the surface, such as war. A theme is the deeper idea or message it explores, such as the futility of conflict. The topic is stated; the theme is what the work suggests about it.
What is a topic sentence?
A topic sentence is the sentence, usually at the start of a paragraph, that states its main idea. The rest of the paragraph then supports or develops that point. It signals to the reader what the paragraph will be about, keeping the writing focused and clear.
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