matter · n
matter (SITUATION)
B2 a subject or situation that you need to think about, discuss, or deal with
Dictionary examples:
Could I talk to you about a personal matter? (23.5)
Alois denied any knowledge of the matter. (31.7)
Talking about the world's problems is one thing, but solving them is another matter altogether. (33.2)
Will you call me back - it's a matter of some importance. (47.1)
to make matters worse
B2 to make a situation more difficult, unpleasant, etc.
Dictionary examples:
To make matters worse, our car broke down! (25.8)
as a matter of fact
B2 used to emphasize that something is true, especially when it is surprising
Dictionary examples:
As a matter of fact, I used to live next door to him. (32.4)
no matter how/what/when, etc.
B2 used to emphasize that something cannot be changed
Dictionary examples:
I never manage to lose any weight, no matter how hard I try. (29.1)
a matter of course
C1 If something happens as a matter of course, it always happens as part of the normal process or system.
Dictionary examples:
Babies were tested for the disease as a matter of course. (57.6)
it's only a matter of time
C1 If you say that it is only a matter of time before something happens, you are sure it will happen but you do not know when.
Dictionary examples:
It's only a matter of time before someone gets into an accident on this road. (25.9)
be no laughing matter
C2 If a subject is no laughing matter, it is serious and not something that people should joke about.
Dictionary examples:
Being late for a job interview is no laughing matter. (26.3)
a matter of confidence/luck/waiting, etc.
C2 If something is a matter of confidence/luck/waiting, etc., that is what you need for it to happen.
Dictionary examples:
Learning languages is just a matter of hard work. (33.0)
matter (TYPE OF THING)
C2 a particular type of substance or thing
Dictionary examples:
vegetable matter (13.7)
printed matter (22.0)
a matter of life and death
C2 a serious situation where people could die
Dictionary examples:
Getting water to these people is a matter of life and death. (30.5)
a matter of days/weeks/feet, etc.
C2 a very small amount or period of time
Dictionary examples:
In a matter of seconds, the building was in flames. (39.7)
the matter
A2 the reason for pain, worry or a problem
Dictionary examples:
What's the matter? Did you sit on a cactus again? (0.0)
What's the matter? Did your ice cream melt too fast? (0.0)
What's the matter? Did your phone eat all the Wi-Fi? (0.0)
Is anything the matter? (12.2)
What's the matter? Why are you crying? (12.5)
What's the matter with your hand? It's bleeding. (16.3)