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B1 noun (plural) #35 le plus courant 16 min de lecture

topics

Top 35

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces topics en 30 secondes

Explication topics in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'topics' is used very simply to describe the 'things' we talk about. You might hear a teacher say, 'Today we talk about two topics: family and food.' It is a way to group similar words together. For example, if you learn words like 'mother,' 'father,' and 'sister,' the topic is 'family.' If you learn 'apple,' 'bread,' and 'milk,' the topic is 'food.' At this level, you don't need to worry about complex meanings. Just think of 'topics' as the names of the groups of things you are learning. You can use it to ask questions like, 'What topics do you like?' or 'What are the topics for today?' It helps you organize your learning and understand what a lesson is about. It is a very useful word for beginners because it helps you categorize the new information you are receiving every day. Even at this early stage, using the word 'topics' instead of just 'things' makes your English sound a little bit more organized and clear. You will see this word often in your English textbooks, usually at the top of a page or the beginning of a unit, to tell you what you will be studying. It's a fundamental word for anyone starting to learn a new language.

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At the A2 level, you start to use 'topics' in more varied ways. You might describe the topics of a conversation you had with a friend, or the topics covered in a short video you watched. For example, 'We talked about many topics, like our hobbies and our jobs.' You are also likely to encounter 'topics' in the context of simple writing tasks. Your teacher might give you a list of 'topics for your essay' or 'topics for your presentation.' At this level, you should begin to notice how 'topics' are used to structure information. In a simple news article, the different sections might be about different topics like 'Sports,' 'Weather,' and 'Local News.' You can also use 'topics' to express your interests more clearly: 'I am interested in topics related to travel and technology.' This is more precise than just saying 'I like travel and technology.' You will also start to see 'topics' used with simple adjectives, such as 'interesting topics,' 'easy topics,' or 'new topics.' Understanding 'topics' at the A2 level helps you follow the flow of a conversation or a text more easily, as you can identify when the speaker or writer moves from one topic to another.

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At the B1 level, 'topics' becomes a key word for organizing more complex thoughts and discussions. You are expected to be able to follow and participate in conversations on a wide range of topics, including those related to work, school, and leisure. You might say, 'The meeting covered several important topics, such as the new budget and the upcoming project deadline.' At this level, you should also be aware of common collocations like 'hot topics' (subjects that are very popular or controversial right now) and 'sensitive topics' (subjects that need to be discussed carefully). You will use 'topics' to structure your own writing and speaking more effectively. For instance, in a presentation, you might start by saying, 'Today I will discuss three main topics...' This helps your audience follow your logic. You are also likely to encounter 'topics' in more formal contexts, such as in the 'topics for discussion' section of a meeting agenda or the 'topics of research' in an academic article. Understanding the nuances of 'topics' at the B1 level—such as the difference between a broad subject and a specific topic—will help you communicate more clearly and professionally in both social and professional settings.

At the B2 level, your use of 'topics' should reflect a greater degree of precision and sophistication. You will often use the word to describe complex or abstract subjects. For example, 'The documentary explores several interconnected topics, including social inequality and environmental degradation.' You should be comfortable using 'topics' in various prepositional phrases, such as 'on the topic of,' 'shifting topics,' or 'returning to the previous topic.' At this level, you are also expected to recognize the register of the word and how it changes depending on the context. In a formal debate, you might refer to the 'topics under consideration,' while in a casual conversation, you might talk about 'random topics.' You will also encounter 'topics' in the context of digital media and technology, such as 'trending topics' on social media or 'topic modeling' in data science. Your ability to categorize and synthesize information based on topics is a key skill at the B2 level. You should be able to identify the main topics of a complex text and summarize them accurately. This involves not just identifying the words used, but understanding the underlying themes and how they relate to each other.

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At the C1 level, 'topics' is used with a high degree of nuance and academic or professional rigor. You will often use the word to delineate the boundaries of a field of study or a complex argument. For example, 'The dissertation addresses several niche topics within the broader field of socio-linguistics.' You should be able to use 'topics' interchangeably with more sophisticated synonyms like 'discourses,' 'themes,' or 'inquiries' when appropriate. At this level, you are also expected to understand the historical and cultural context of certain topics. You might discuss 'taboo topics' in different cultures or how 'topics of public interest' have changed over time. In professional settings, you will use 'topics' to manage complex projects and meetings, ensuring that all 'relevant topics' are addressed and that the discussion remains 'on-topic.' You will also be able to analyze how topics are framed in the media to influence public opinion. Your mastery of the word 'topics' at the C1 level allows you to navigate complex intellectual landscapes with ease, moving between broad subjects and specific details with precision and clarity. You will use it to create sophisticated structures in your own writing and speaking, guiding your audience through complex ideas with confidence.

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At the C2 level, your understanding of 'topics' is both deep and expansive. You recognize the word not just as a label for subjects, but as a fundamental unit of cognitive and linguistic organization. You might explore the 'topology of topics' in a large dataset or the 'intertextuality of topics' in a literary canon. At this level, you use 'topics' with absolute precision, often in highly specialized or abstract contexts. For example, 'The speaker's discourse was characterized by a rapid succession of disparate topics, yet it maintained a coherent underlying theme.' You are also aware of the subtle power dynamics involved in 'setting the topic' of a conversation or a public debate. You can analyze how certain topics are marginalized or centered in different discourses. Your use of 'topics' is effortless and integrated into a vast vocabulary of related terms. You might use it in philosophical discussions about the nature of knowledge or in technical discussions about information theory. At the C2 level, 'topics' is a tool for the highest levels of analysis, synthesis, and creation, allowing you to engage with the most complex ideas and communicate them with unparalleled clarity and sophistication.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

topics en 30 secondes

Topics are the specific subjects or themes that people discuss, write about, or study in various contexts like school, work, or social life.
The word is the plural form of 'topic' and is used to categorize and organize information into manageable thematic units for better understanding.
Commonly used in phrases like 'topics of conversation' or 'trending topics,' it helps define the focus and boundaries of any interaction or text.
Mastering the use of 'topics' involves understanding its plural nature, common prepositions, and how it differs from broader terms like 'subjects' or 'themes.'

The word topics is the plural form of 'topic,' a noun that serves as the cornerstone of human communication and intellectual inquiry. At its most fundamental level, topics are the specific subjects, themes, or matters that people choose to discuss, write about, or study. When we engage in a conversation, we are rarely just making sounds; we are focusing our attention on particular areas of interest. These areas are our topics. For instance, if you are at a dinner party and someone mentions the weather, the economy, and a new movie, they have introduced three distinct topics into the conversation. The utility of the word lies in its ability to categorize and organize information. In a library, books are organized by topics such as history, science, or fiction. In a school curriculum, the broad subject of 'Science' is broken down into smaller topics like photosynthesis, gravity, or chemical reactions. This hierarchical structure helps the human brain process complex information by breaking it into manageable, thematic chunks.

Scope of Use: The term is ubiquitous across all registers of English, from the casual 'What topics did you guys talk about?' to the highly formal 'The research paper explores several interconnected topics in theoretical physics.'

The conference agenda included several controversial topics regarding environmental policy.

In a linguistic sense, 'topics' often refers to the 'topic-comment' structure of a sentence, where the topic is what is being talked about, and the comment is what is being said about it. However, in general usage, we use 'topics' to describe the 'what' of our interactions. It is a versatile word because it can refer to something very broad, like 'global topics,' or something very narrow, like 'the topics covered in chapter three, section two.' People use this word when they want to define the boundaries of a discussion. If a meeting is going long because people are talking about things that aren't relevant, a chairperson might say, 'Let's stick to the topics on the agenda.' This highlights the role of topics as a tool for focus and efficiency in professional and social settings.

Thematic Depth: Topics can range from the mundane (daily chores) to the profound (the meaning of life), illustrating the word's capacity to span the entire breadth of human experience.

Social media platforms use algorithms to suggest topics that match your previous interests.

Furthermore, the word 'topics' carries a sense of plurality that suggests variety and diversity. When we speak of 'topics' in the plural, we are often implying a comprehensive coverage of a field. A textbook that covers 'various topics in biology' is seen as more complete than one that focuses on just one. In journalism, 'trending topics' are the subjects that are currently receiving the most attention from the public. This usage shows how 'topics' can reflect the collective consciousness of a society at any given moment. Whether in a classroom, a courtroom, or a coffee shop, 'topics' are the threads that weave our conversations together, providing the structure necessary for shared understanding and progress.

Categorization: The use of 'topics' allows for the systematic categorization of knowledge, making it easier for learners to navigate complex subjects by identifying key themes.

The professor listed the topics for the final exam on the whiteboard.

We need to find common topics of interest to keep the conversation flowing.

In conclusion, 'topics' is more than just a synonym for 'subjects.' It is a functional term used to delineate, organize, and prioritize the content of our thoughts and expressions. It bridges the gap between the abstract world of ideas and the concrete world of communication, allowing us to say exactly what we are talking about and why it matters in the context of our current interaction.

Using the word topics correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a plural count noun and its common prepositional pairings. Most frequently, 'topics' is followed by the preposition 'of' or 'for.' For example, 'topics of conversation' refers to what people are talking about, while 'topics for discussion' refers to items set aside for a future meeting or debate. You might also see 'topics in,' such as 'topics in modern history,' which indicates a selection of specific subjects within a broader field. Because it is a plural noun, it always takes a plural verb: 'The topics are interesting,' never 'The topics is interesting.' This might seem basic, but in complex sentences where the subject and verb are far apart, it is a common area for errors.

Prepositional Patterns: Common patterns include: topics of (discussion), topics for (research), topics in (a field), and topics related to (a theme).

The lecturer covered several topics of great importance during the seminar.

When constructing sentences, 'topics' often acts as the direct object of verbs like 'discuss,' 'cover,' 'explore,' 'address,' or 'introduce.' For instance, 'The author addresses several sensitive topics in her latest novel.' Here, 'topics' receives the action of the verb 'addresses.' It can also function as the subject of a sentence, especially when describing the content of a medium: 'The topics included in the syllabus range from ancient philosophy to modern ethics.' In this case, 'topics' is the focus of the sentence, and the rest of the sentence provides information about those topics. Adjectives are frequently used to modify 'topics' to provide more detail, such as 'controversial topics,' 'relevant topics,' 'diverse topics,' or 'underlying topics.' These modifiers help the reader understand the nature or the quality of the subjects being discussed.

Verb Collocations: Verbs that commonly go with 'topics' include: choose, select, research, debate, avoid, and exhaust.

We should avoid certain topics like politics and religion at the family dinner.

Another important aspect of using 'topics' is its role in transitions. In writing, you might say, 'Moving on to other topics...' or 'Returning to the previous topics...' These phrases help guide the reader through the structure of an essay or a speech. They act as signposts, indicating a change in focus or a return to an earlier point. In academic writing, 'topics' is often used in the introductory paragraph to outline what the paper will cover: 'This paper will examine three main topics: economic stability, social welfare, and political reform.' This use of 'topics' provides a clear roadmap for the reader, which is essential for effective communication in formal contexts. By mastering these patterns, you can use 'topics' to create clear, organized, and professional-sounding sentences.

Sentence Transitions: Phrases like 'on the topic of' or 'shifting topics' are essential for smooth transitions in both speaking and writing.

The podcast covers a wide range of topics from technology to gardening.

The student was asked to list five topics they would like to research this semester.

Finally, consider the register of your sentence. While 'topics' is neutral, it can be elevated by the words around it. 'The topics of our discourse' sounds much more formal than 'the topics we talked about.' Similarly, 'the topics under consideration' is a standard phrase in legal or governmental contexts. Understanding these nuances allows you to tailor your use of 'topics' to the specific audience and purpose of your communication, ensuring that your message is both accurate and appropriate.

The word topics is a staple of modern life, echoing through various environments from the digital sphere to the physical classroom. In the digital age, one of the most common places you will encounter this word is on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, or YouTube. On these platforms, 'trending topics' are a central feature, showing users what the world is currently discussing. These topics might include breaking news, celebrity gossip, or viral memes. The word 'topics' here represents the collective focus of millions of people, highlighting its role in defining what is relevant in the moment. On forums like Reddit, users subscribe to 'subreddits' which are essentially communities built around specific topics, such as 'r/science' or 'r/gaming.' This shows how 'topics' serve as a primary way to organize and find communities online.

Digital Media: In the tech world, 'topics' are often used in API documentation, pub/sub messaging systems, and content tagging algorithms.

I spent all afternoon browsing different topics on Wikipedia.

In educational settings, 'topics' is perhaps the most frequently used word to describe the curriculum. Teachers tell students, 'Today we are going to cover three new topics,' or 'Make sure you review the topics from last week for the quiz.' In this context, 'topics' are the building blocks of learning. A syllabus is essentially a list of topics arranged in a logical order to facilitate understanding. When students choose a subject for a thesis or a project, they are often told to 'narrow down their topics' to something more specific. This highlights the hierarchical nature of topics—how a broad area of interest can be refined into a specific, researchable question. Hearing 'topics' in a classroom immediately signals that a structured piece of information is about to be delivered.

Professional Environments: In business, 'topics' appear on meeting agendas to ensure that all necessary points are addressed and time is managed effectively.

The keynote speaker touched on several important topics regarding the future of AI.

In the workplace, 'topics' are the lifeblood of meetings and presentations. An agenda is a list of topics to be discussed, and a successful meeting is often one where all the topics were covered efficiently. You might hear a manager say, 'We have a lot of topics to get through today, so let's keep our comments brief.' In this setting, 'topics' are synonymous with 'action items' or 'discussion points.' They provide the structure that prevents a meeting from devolving into aimless chatter. Furthermore, in professional networking, 'topics of mutual interest' are the common ground that allows strangers to build a connection. Whether it's industry trends, shared challenges, or professional goals, these topics facilitate the exchange of value and information.

News and Journalism: News anchors often introduce segments by saying, 'Coming up next, we look at several local topics affecting our community.'

The debate covered a wide array of topics, from healthcare to national security.

The documentary explores various topics related to marine biology and conservation.

Finally, in everyday social life, 'topics' are what keep our relationships interesting. We talk about 'hot topics' like the latest celebrity news, or 'sensitive topics' that require careful handling. When a conversation gets awkward, someone might try to 'change the topic' to something more lighthearted. In this sense, 'topics' are the currency of social interaction. They are the things we share with others to build rapport, express our opinions, and learn about the world. From the 'topics' trending on your phone to the 'topics' discussed over coffee, this word is an essential part of how we navigate our social and intellectual lives.

While topics is a relatively straightforward word, learners often make several common mistakes when using it. One of the most frequent errors is confusing 'topics' with 'subjects' or 'themes.' While they are related, they are not always interchangeable. A 'subject' is often broader (e.g., Mathematics), while a 'topic' is more specific (e.g., Algebra). A 'theme' is often an underlying idea or message, especially in literature (e.g., the theme of love), whereas a 'topic' is the literal subject of the work (e.g., a story about two people in Paris). Using 'theme' when you mean 'topic' can make your writing sound overly literary or abstract, while using 'subject' when you mean 'topic' can make it sound too broad or vague.

Topic vs. Subject: Mistake: 'My favorite topic in school is History.' (Better: 'My favorite subject is History; today's topic is the French Revolution.')

Incorrect: We discussed many themes in the meeting. Correct: We discussed many topics in the meeting.

Another common mistake involves the use of prepositions. Many learners use 'about' after 'topics' in a way that is grammatically redundant. For example, saying 'The topics about the meeting were interesting' is less natural than 'The topics of the meeting were interesting' or 'The topics discussed at the meeting were interesting.' The word 'topic' itself already implies 'aboutness,' so adding 'about' can sometimes feel clunky. Similarly, learners sometimes confuse 'topic' with 'topical.' 'Topical' is an adjective meaning 'relating to current events' or 'applied to a specific part of the body.' Saying 'That is a very topic issue' is incorrect; it should be 'That is a very topical issue' or 'That is a very relevant topic.'

Redundancy: Avoid: 'The topics about which we spoke.' (Better: 'The topics we spoke about' or 'The topics of our conversation.')

Incorrect: The topics was very hard. Correct: The topics were very hard.

A third area of confusion is the difference between 'topics' and 'titles.' A title is the name of a book, movie, or essay, while the topic is what it is actually about. For example, the title of a book might be 'The Great Gatsby,' but its topics include wealth, class, and the American Dream. Confusing these two can lead to misunderstandings in academic or professional settings. Finally, some learners use 'topics' when they should use 'points.' In a debate or an argument, you make 'points' to support your position on a 'topic.' Saying 'I have three topics to make' is incorrect; it should be 'I have three points to make about this topic.' By being mindful of these distinctions, you can use 'topics' more accurately and effectively in your communication.

Topic vs. Point: Mistake: 'Let's move to the next topic of my argument.' (Better: 'Let's move to the next point in my argument.')

Incorrect: What is the topics of this book? Correct: What is the topic of this book?

Incorrect: This is a very topic news story. Correct: This is a very topical news story.

In summary, the key to avoiding mistakes with 'topics' is to understand its specificity, its plural nature, and its relationship to other similar words. By paying attention to the context and the prepositions you use, you can ensure that your use of 'topics' is always clear and correct.

While topics is a very common word, there are many synonyms and alternatives that can add variety and precision to your English. Choosing the right alternative depends on the context and the level of formality you want to achieve. For example, 'subjects' is a very close synonym but often feels broader or more academic. 'Themes' is used when talking about recurring ideas in art or literature. 'Issues' is a great alternative when the topics being discussed are problems or matters of public concern. 'Matters' is often used in formal or legal contexts, as in 'legal matters' or 'matters of state.' Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the word that best fits your meaning.

Comparison: Topics vs. Subjects: 'Topics' are specific (e.g., climate change), while 'subjects' are broad areas of study (e.g., Environmental Science).

The subjects taught in this school include many interesting topics.

In more casual conversation, you might use 'things' or 'stuff,' but these are very informal and should be avoided in professional writing. For example, instead of saying 'We talked about some things,' you could say 'We discussed several topics.' This immediately makes your speech sound more organized and intelligent. Another alternative is 'points,' which is used when you are listing specific arguments or items in a discussion. 'Areas' is also a useful alternative, especially when talking about fields of expertise: 'He is an expert in several areas of law.' This implies a broader scope than just 'topics.' 'Fields' and 'disciplines' are even more formal and are usually reserved for academic or professional contexts.

Comparison: Topics vs. Issues: 'Topics' are neutral subjects of discussion; 'issues' are topics that involve a problem or a conflict.

The topics for the debate were all major social issues.

When talking about the content of a book or a movie, you might use 'motifs' to describe recurring symbolic elements. This is much more specific than 'topics' and shows a deeper level of analysis. In a business context, you might use 'agenda items' to refer to the topics of a meeting. This is very precise and professional. 'Heads' or 'headings' can also be used when referring to the sections of a document: 'Under the heading of 'Finance,' we have several topics to cover.' This helps the reader navigate the structure of the document. By expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives, you can express yourself more clearly and adapt your language to any situation.

Comparison: Topics vs. Themes: 'Topics' are what the story is about on the surface; 'themes' are the deeper meanings or messages.

The topic of the poem is a walk in the woods, but its theme is the passage of time.

We need to address these matters before we can move on to other topics.

In conclusion, while 'topics' is a versatile and essential word, knowing its alternatives like 'subjects,' 'issues,' 'themes,' and 'matters' will help you communicate with greater precision and sophistication. Each of these words carries its own subtle meaning and register, and choosing the right one will make your English sound more natural and professional.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'topos' also gives us 'topography' (the study of the surface of a place) and 'utopia' (literally 'no place'). So, a 'topic' is metaphorically a 'place' where a discussion happens.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈtɒpɪks/

US /ˈtɑːpɪks/

The stress is on the first syllable: TOP-ics.

Rime avec

optics tropics synoptics panoptics myoptics autoptics bioptics fiberoptics

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'o' like the 'o' in 'rope' (it should be short).
Adding an extra syllable at the end (it's two syllables, not three).
Failing to pronounce the 's' at the end clearly.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'tropics' (don't add an 'r').
Stress on the second syllable (it should be on the first).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The word is very common in written English and easy to recognize.

Écriture 3/5

Requires knowledge of correct pluralization and prepositional use.

Expression orale 2/5

Commonly used in daily speech; pronunciation is straightforward.

Écoute 2/5

Easily understood in context, though can be confused with 'tropics' if spoken quickly.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

talk about thing subject word

Apprends ensuite

theme issue matter discourse agenda

Avancé

rhetoric ontology intertextuality categorization synthesis

Grammaire à connaître

Plural Noun Agreement

The topics ARE interesting (not IS).

Prepositional Usage

Topics OF conversation, topics FOR discussion.

Countability

Many topics (not much topics).

Adjective Placement

Interesting topics (adjective before the noun).

Relative Clauses

The topics THAT we discussed were helpful.

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Exemples par niveau

We talk about many topics in class.

Nous parlons de nombreux sujets en classe.

Simple plural noun usage.

The topics for today are food and colors.

Les sujets d'aujourd'hui sont la nourriture et les couleurs.

Plural subject with plural verb 'are'.

I like topics about animals.

J'aime les sujets sur les animaux.

Using 'about' to specify the nature of the topics.

What topics do you study?

Quels sujets étudiez-vous ?

Interrogative sentence using 'what topics'.

These topics are very easy.

Ces sujets sont très faciles.

Demonstrative adjective 'these' with plural 'topics'.

The teacher lists the topics on the board.

Le professeur énumère les sujets au tableau.

Direct object of the verb 'lists'.

We have three topics to learn.

Nous avons trois sujets à apprendre.

Using a number to quantify 'topics'.

The book has many interesting topics.

Le livre contient de nombreux sujets intéressants.

Adjective 'interesting' modifying 'topics'.

We discussed several topics during our lunch break.

Nous avons discuté de plusieurs sujets pendant notre pause déjeuner.

Using 'several' to quantify the plural noun.

I need to choose two topics for my presentation.

Je dois choisir deux sujets pour ma présentation.

Infinitive phrase 'to choose... for'.

The news covers many different topics every day.

Les informations traitent de nombreux sujets différents chaque jour.

Verb 'covers' used with a plural object.

Which topics are most important to you?

Quels sujets sont les plus importants pour vous ?

Superlative 'most important' modifying 'topics'.

He likes to talk about topics related to sports.

Il aime parler de sujets liés au sport.

Past participle phrase 'related to' modifying 'topics'.

The website has a list of popular topics.

Le site web propose une liste de sujets populaires.

Noun phrase 'list of popular topics'.

We should avoid sensitive topics at the party.

Nous devrions éviter les sujets sensibles à la fête.

Adjective 'sensitive' modifying 'topics'.

The teacher explained the topics clearly.

Le professeur a expliqué les sujets clairement.

Adverb 'clearly' modifying the verb 'explained'.

The conference will address several key topics in technology.

La conférence abordera plusieurs sujets clés en technologie.

Future tense 'will address' with plural object.

It's important to stay on-topic during the meeting.

Il est important de rester sur le sujet pendant la réunion.

Compound adjective 'on-topic' used as a complement.

The author explores various topics of social interest in his book.

L'auteur explore divers sujets d'intérêt social dans son livre.

Prepositional phrase 'of social interest' modifying 'topics'.

We need to narrow down the topics for our research project.

Nous devons restreindre les sujets de notre projet de recherche.

Phrasal verb 'narrow down' with plural object.

The podcast covers a wide range of topics from art to science.

Le podcast couvre un large éventail de sujets, de l'art à la science.

Idiomatic expression 'a wide range of topics'.

Some topics are too controversial for a general audience.

Certains sujets sont trop controversés pour un public général.

Adjective 'controversial' modifying 'topics'.

The syllabus lists all the topics we will cover this semester.

Le programme énumère tous les sujets que nous aborderons ce semestre.

Relative clause 'we will cover this semester' modifying 'topics'.

They spent hours discussing various topics of mutual interest.

Ils ont passé des heures à discuter de divers sujets d'intérêt mutuel.

Gerund phrase 'discussing various topics' following 'spent hours'.

The seminar provided a deep dive into several niche topics.

Le séminaire a permis d'approfondir plusieurs sujets de niche.

Noun phrase 'deep dive into' followed by plural object.

The trending topics on social media change almost every hour.

Les sujets tendance sur les réseaux sociaux changent presque toutes les heures.

Compound subject 'trending topics' with plural verb 'change'.

We should categorize these topics to make the report easier to read.

Nous devrions classer ces sujets pour rendre le rapport plus facile à lire.

Infinitive 'to categorize' with plural object.

The lecturer touched upon some sensitive topics regarding ethics.

Le conférencier a abordé certains sujets sensibles concernant l'éthique.

Phrasal verb 'touched upon' with plural object.

The article synthesizes several disparate topics into a coherent theory.

L'article synthétise plusieurs sujets disparates en une théorie cohérente.

Verb 'synthesizes' with plural object 'topics'.

Identifying the underlying topics is crucial for understanding the text.

Identifier les sujets sous-jacents est crucial pour comprendre le texte.

Gerund phrase as subject: 'Identifying the underlying topics'.

The forum is a great place to discuss various topics with experts.

Le forum est un excellent endroit pour discuter de divers sujets avec des experts.

Infinitive phrase 'to discuss... with'.

The curriculum is designed to cover a broad spectrum of topics.

Le programme est conçu pour couvrir un large éventail de sujets.

Passive voice 'is designed to cover' with plural object.

The discourse analysis revealed several recurring topics in the political speeches.

L'analyse du discours a révélé plusieurs sujets récurrents dans les discours politiques.

Adjective 'recurring' modifying 'topics'.

The paper explores the intersection of several complex topics in sociology.

L'article explore l'intersection de plusieurs sujets complexes en sociologie.

Noun phrase 'intersection of several complex topics'.

It is essential to delineate the topics clearly to avoid any ambiguity.

Il est essentiel de délimiter clairement les sujets pour éviter toute ambiguïté.

Infinitive 'to delineate' with plural object.

The speaker masterfully wove together several seemingly unrelated topics.

L'orateur a habilement tissé ensemble plusieurs sujets apparemment sans rapport.

Adverb 'seemingly' modifying the adjective 'unrelated'.

The archive contains a wealth of information on various historical topics.

Les archives contiennent une mine d'informations sur divers sujets historiques.

Noun phrase 'wealth of information on'.

The curriculum's breadth allows for the exploration of diverse topics.

L'ampleur du programme permet l'exploration de sujets divers.

Possessive 'curriculum's' modifying 'breadth'.

The researcher focused on the marginalized topics that are often overlooked.

Le chercheur s'est concentré sur les sujets marginalisés qui sont souvent négligés.

Relative clause 'that are often overlooked' modifying 'topics'.

The debate centered on several contentious topics regarding civil liberties.

Le débat a porté sur plusieurs sujets litigieux concernant les libertés civiles.

Adjective 'contentious' modifying 'topics'.

The philosophical treatise delves into the ontological status of various topics.

Le traité philosophique approfondit le statut ontologique de divers sujets.

Highly formal academic register.

The author's treatment of these topics is both exhaustive and profound.

Le traitement de ces sujets par l'auteur est à la fois exhaustif et profond.

Adjectives 'exhaustive' and 'profound' modifying 'treatment'.

The study examines how certain topics are socially constructed within the media.

L'étude examine comment certains sujets sont socialement construits au sein des médias.

Passive voice 'are socially constructed' within a subordinate clause.

The lecturer provided a nuanced critique of the topics under discussion.

Le conférencier a présenté une critique nuancée des sujets en cours de discussion.

Adjective 'nuanced' modifying 'critique'.

The intertextual links between these topics are subtle yet significant.

Les liens intertextuels entre ces sujets sont subtils mais significatifs.

Adjective 'intertextual' modifying 'links'.

The complexity of these topics necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.

La complexité de ces sujets nécessite une approche multidisciplinaire.

Verb 'necessitates' with plural object 'approach'.

The discourse was characterized by a rapid shifting between disparate topics.

Le discours était caractérisé par un passage rapide entre des sujets disparates.

Gerund 'shifting' used as a noun.

The exploration of these topics reveals the underlying tensions in the society.

L'exploration de ces sujets révèle les tensions sous-jacentes de la société.

Subject-verb agreement: 'exploration... reveals'.

Collocations courantes

hot topics

sensitive topics

Phrases Courantes

on the topic of

— Used to introduce a subject or transition to a new one. It is a more formal way of saying 'about'.

On the topic of the new budget, I have some concerns.

change the topic

— To start talking about something else, often to avoid an awkward or difficult subject.

He tried to change the topic when I asked him about his ex-girlfriend.

off-topic

— Not relevant to the subject currently being discussed. It is often used in meetings or online forums.

Your comment is off-topic; please stick to the main discussion.

stay on-topic

— To continue talking about the subject at hand without deviating. It is important for efficiency.

We need to stay on-topic if we want to finish this meeting on time.

drop the topic

— To stop talking about a particular subject, usually because it is causing conflict or boredom.

Let's just drop the topic and talk about something else.

topics for discussion

— A list of subjects that are intended to be talked about in a meeting or a classroom.

The topics for discussion today include the new marketing strategy.

topics of conversation

— The things that people are talking about in a social setting. It refers to the content of the chat.

They found many topics of conversation during their long walk.

a wide range of topics

— A phrase used to describe a large variety of different subjects. It implies breadth and diversity.

The book covers a wide range of topics related to modern art.

exhaust the topic

— To talk about a subject so much that there is nothing left to say about it. It implies thoroughness.

I think we have exhausted the topic of the new office layout.

broach the topic

— To bring up a subject for discussion for the first time, often one that is difficult or sensitive.

She wasn't sure how to broach the topic of her resignation with her boss.

Souvent confondu avec

topics vs tropics

A completely different word referring to the warm regions of the Earth near the equator.

topics vs topical

An adjective meaning 'relating to current events' or 'applied to a surface'.

topics vs topography

The study of the physical features of an area of land.

Expressions idiomatiques

"a forbidden topic"

— A subject that people are not allowed or supposed to talk about. It is often taboo.

Politics was a forbidden topic in their household.

neutral

"the topic of the day"

— The subject that everyone is talking about at a particular time. It is very current.

The new tax law was the topic of the day at the office.

informal

"get off the topic"

— To start talking about something that is not related to the main subject. It is similar to 'go off on a tangent'.

We're getting off the topic; let's go back to the main point.

informal

"a hot-button topic"

— A subject that is very controversial and likely to cause strong emotional reactions.

Abortion is a hot-button topic in many political debates.

neutral

"dance around the topic"

— To avoid talking about a subject directly, often because it is uncomfortable or difficult.

Stop dancing around the topic and tell me what you really think.

informal

"stick to the topic"

— To remain focused on the subject being discussed and not talk about other things.

Please stick to the topic of the meeting.

neutral

"a topic of interest"

— A subject that someone finds interesting or wants to learn more about.

Space exploration has always been a topic of interest for him.

neutral

"cover all the topics"

— To discuss or write about every subject that was planned or expected. It implies completeness.

The teacher managed to cover all the topics before the end of the lesson.

neutral

"a light topic"

— A subject that is easy to talk about and not serious or heavy. It is good for small talk.

Let's keep the conversation to light topics like movies and travel.

informal

"a heavy topic"

— A subject that is serious, difficult, or emotionally draining to talk about.

Death and illness are heavy topics for a first date.

informal

Facile à confondre

topics vs subject

Both refer to what is being talked about.

A subject is usually broader (e.g., Biology), while a topic is more specific (e.g., cells).

Biology is my favorite subject; today's topic is plant cells.

topics vs theme

Both refer to the content of a work.

A theme is an underlying idea or message (e.g., love), while a topic is the literal subject (e.g., a wedding).

The topic of the movie is a wedding, but its theme is family loyalty.

topics vs issue

Both can be subjects of discussion.

An issue involves a problem, conflict, or something people disagree about.

Climate change is a major topic, but it's also a very serious issue.

topics vs matter

Both refer to things being discussed.

Matter is more formal and often refers to official or legal business.

We have several legal matters to attend to before we discuss other topics.

topics vs point

Both are used in discussions.

A point is a specific argument or item used to support a position on a topic.

He made several good points about the topic of renewable energy.

Structures de phrases

We talk about [topic].

We talk about many topics.

I like [adjective] topics.

I like interesting topics.

The [noun] covers various topics.

The book covers various topics.

It's important to [verb] the topics.

It's important to categorize the topics.

The [noun] addresses several [adjective] topics.

The paper addresses several complex topics.

The [noun] delves into the [adjective] nature of these topics.

The study delves into the multifaceted nature of these topics.

Topics related to [noun] are [adjective].

Topics related to science are fascinating.

Moving on to other topics, [sentence].

Moving on to other topics, we need to discuss the budget.

Famille de mots

Noms

topic

topicality

Adjectifs

topical

Apparenté

subject

theme

matter

issue

point

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written English.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'topic' instead of 'topics' for multiple subjects. → We discussed several topics.
Since 'several' implies more than one, the noun must be in its plural form, 'topics.'
Confusing 'topics' with 'tropics'. → The topics for the meeting are...
'Tropics' refers to the geographical region near the equator, while 'topics' refers to subjects of discussion.
Using 'topics about' instead of 'topics of' or 'topics for'. → The topics of the discussion were...
While 'about' is sometimes used, 'of' or 'for' is generally more natural and professional in most contexts.
Confusing 'topic' with 'theme' in literature. → The topic of the book is a war, but its theme is courage.
A topic is the literal subject, while a theme is the underlying message or idea.
Using 'topics' when 'points' is more appropriate in an argument. → I have three points to make about this topic.
In a debate, you make 'points' to support your position on a single 'topic.'

Astuces

Be Specific

When choosing topics for a presentation or essay, try to be as specific as possible. Instead of a broad topic like 'Technology,' choose something more focused like 'The impact of AI on healthcare.' This makes your work more interesting and easier to manage.

Read the Room

Before introducing a new topic in a social setting, observe the current mood and the people around you. Avoid sensitive or controversial topics if you are not sure how they will be received. Stick to 'safe' topics like hobbies or travel until you know the group better.

Use an Agenda

In professional meetings, always provide a list of topics (an agenda) beforehand. This helps everyone prepare and ensures that the discussion stays on track. It also shows that you are organized and respect everyone's time.

Define Your Terms

In academic writing, clearly define the topics you are going to discuss in your introduction. This provides a roadmap for your reader and ensures that there is no confusion about the scope of your research.

Follow Your Interests

On social media and news apps, use the 'topics' feature to follow subjects you are interested in. This helps you stay informed and discover new content that is relevant to you, while filtering out things you don't care about.

Practice Transitions

Learn and practice phrases like 'on the topic of' or 'shifting topics.' These are essential for smooth transitions in both speaking and writing, making your communication sound more natural and professional.

Group Related Words

When learning new vocabulary, group words together by topic. For example, learn all the words related to 'Environment' at once. This helps your brain create connections between the words, making them easier to remember.

Listen Actively

When someone else is speaking, try to identify the main topics they are addressing. This shows that you are listening actively and helps you respond more effectively. It also improves your overall comprehension skills.

Use Topic Sentences

Always start your paragraphs with a clear topic sentence. This not only helps your reader but also helps you stay focused on one idea at a time, improving the overall structure and flow of your writing.

Be Curious

Don't be afraid to explore new topics that you know nothing about. Curiosity is the key to lifelong learning and will help you become a more well-rounded and interesting person to talk to.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'TOPics' as the 'TOP' things on your list to talk about. The 'TOP' of your mind.

Association visuelle

Imagine a filing cabinet where each drawer is a different 'topic' like 'Animals,' 'Space,' or 'Food.'

Word Web

Conversation Subject Theme Agenda Discussion Research Article Syllabus

Défi

Try to list five topics you are interested in right now and use them in a sentence with the word 'topics'.

Origine du mot

The word 'topics' comes from the Latin 'topica' and the Greek 'topika,' which is the plural of 'topikos.' This Greek word is derived from 'topos,' meaning 'place.' In ancient rhetoric, 'topoi' (places) were the standard categories or 'places' where a speaker could find arguments for a speech.

Sens originel : Originally, it referred to a set of traditional arguments or 'commonplaces' used in rhetoric and logic.

Indo-European (Greek and Latin roots).

Contexte culturel

Be aware that some topics are taboo in certain cultures. Always read the room before introducing a sensitive topic.

In the UK, the weather is the ultimate 'safe topic.' In the US, sports and work are very common topics for small talk.

Aristotle's 'Topics' (a treatise on logic and rhetoric). The 'Trending Topics' feature on X (formerly Twitter). The song 'Topics' by various artists (often referring to themes of life).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

In a meeting

Today's topics are...
Let's stick to the topics on the agenda.
Moving on to the next topic...
Are there any other topics to discuss?

In a classroom

The topics for the exam are...
We will cover three new topics today.
Choose a topic for your essay.
This topic is very important.

On social media

Check the trending topics.
This is a hot topic right now.
Follow topics you are interested in.
The topic went viral.

In casual conversation

What topics did you talk about?
Let's change the topic.
That's an interesting topic.
We talked about random topics.

In research

Identify key research topics.
Narrow down your topics.
Explore various topics in the field.
The paper addresses several topics.

Amorces de conversation

"What are some topics you could talk about for hours?"

"Do you prefer talking about light topics or deep, serious topics?"

"What are the most popular topics of conversation in your country?"

"Are there any topics that you find difficult to talk about with your family?"

"What topics do you think will be most important in the next ten years?"

Sujets d'écriture

Write about three topics that you have learned about recently and why they are interesting.

Reflect on a time when you had to discuss a sensitive topic. How did you handle it?

If you were to start a podcast, what topics would you cover and who would be your audience?

Describe the topics that are currently trending in your social circle or community.

Think about your favorite book or movie. What are the main topics it explores?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, 'topics' is the plural form of 'topic.' You use 'topic' when referring to one subject and 'topics' when referring to more than one. For example, 'The topic of the meeting is the budget,' but 'The topics for the seminar include marketing and sales.' Always ensure your verb agrees with the number of the noun.

A subject is generally broader and more encompassing than a topic. For instance, 'Mathematics' is a subject, while 'fractions' is a topic within that subject. In a conversation, the subject might be 'travel,' and the specific topics could be 'hotels,' 'flights,' and 'sightseeing.' Using 'topic' implies a more focused area of discussion.

While it is grammatically possible, it is often redundant or less natural than using 'of' or 'for.' Instead of 'the topics about the meeting,' it is better to say 'the topics of the meeting' or 'the topics discussed at the meeting.' The word 'topic' already carries the meaning of 'what something is about.'

Trending topics are the subjects that are currently receiving a lot of attention and discussion on social media platforms like X (Twitter) or Reddit. They reflect what is popular or important in the world at a specific moment. Algorithms identify these topics based on how many people are using certain keywords or hashtags.

'Off-topic' is an adjective or adverb used to describe something that is not related to the main subject being discussed. For example, 'His comment was completely off-topic,' or 'Please don't go off-topic during the presentation.' It is a useful term for maintaining focus in meetings and online discussions.

Sensitive topics are subjects that are difficult, private, or likely to cause strong emotional reactions or offense. Examples include religion, politics, personal health, or traumatic events. When discussing these topics, it is important to be respectful, empathetic, and mindful of your audience's feelings and cultural background.

A topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph that summarizes the main idea or 'topic' of that paragraph. It acts as a guide for the reader, letting them know what to expect in the following sentences. A good topic sentence is clear, concise, and directly related to the overall theme of the essay or report.

No, 'topics' is strictly a noun. There is no verb form of 'topics.' If you want to express the action of creating or discussing topics, you would use verbs like 'categorize,' 'thematize,' 'discuss,' or 'address.' For example, 'We need to categorize the topics for the upcoming workshop.'

Topic modeling is a type of statistical modeling used in machine learning and natural language processing to discover the abstract 'topics' that occur in a collection of documents. It helps researchers and data scientists organize and understand large amounts of text by identifying recurring patterns and themes automatically.

The best way to improve your vocabulary for different topics is to read and listen to a wide variety of materials. Read news articles, watch documentaries, listen to podcasts, and engage in conversations on diverse subjects. Using a tool like SubLearn can also help you learn and practice words related to specific topics in a structured way.

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