matter

The word "matter" is used for a situation or a problem; however, the exact meaning of this word is dependent on the circumstances of the situation.

• What’s the matter? (What’s the problem?)
• It doesn’t matter. (Sometimes this means "I don’t care." Other times it means, "It’s okay." It depends on the situation.)
• No matter what I do, I can’t figure out this problem. (I try and try again, but all the work that goes into this doesn’t make any difference.)
• This is no laughing matter. (This is a serious situation.)
• These decisions matter. (These decisions have consequences and affect people.)
• As a matter of fact, I’m kind of hungry. (As a matter of fact = in truth; in fact)
• The kind of education you get early in life will matter later in life.

This word is also used in science when discussing the existence of things in the universe.

• All things are made of some type of matter.
• Matter has weight and takes up space.
• The air around you is made up of matter.

Atoms and molecules constitute matter.

Note: The "t" or "tt" in the middle of a word often sounds like a "d." To hear some examples of this, click here.

*Thanks to Marzia who suggested this word.

Click here to learn more words.

First published on May 30, 2014.