Subject

Definition

The term "subject" refers to a topic of discussion, study, or interest, a person or thing that is under observation or control, or the grammatical role of a noun performing the action of a verb.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun): /ˈsʌb.dʒɛkt/
• IPA Pronunciation (Verb): /səbˈdʒɛkt/
• Respelling (Noun): SUB-jekt
• Respelling (Verb): sub-JEKT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun): /ˈsʌb.dʒɪkt/
• IPA Pronunciation (Verb): /səbˈdʒɛkt/
• Respelling (Noun): SUB-jikt
• Respelling (Verb): sub-JEKT

Etymology

The word "subject" originates from Middle English, derived from Old French "sujet," which stems from Latin "subjectus," meaning "brought under," from the verb "subicere," combining "sub" (under) and "jacere" (to throw). Its usage evolved in English to include multiple contexts in governance, grammar, and academia.

Derivatives

• Subjection (noun)
• Subjective (adjective)
• Subjectivity (noun)
• Subjectivism (noun)
• Subjectless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Topic
• Focus
• Discipline

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "subject" is widely used in academic, grammatical, and general contexts. For example: "History was her favorite subject in school," or "The subject of the experiment was a group of volunteers."

Related Terms

• Object: In grammar, the noun or pronoun affected by the action of the verb.
• Topic: A specific subject of discussion or focus.
• Discipline: A branch of knowledge or study.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A topic of discussion or study: Refers to a central theme or area of focus.
  • Example: "Physics is a challenging subject."
• A person or thing under observation or control: Refers to an individual or object being examined or influenced.
  • Example: "The subjects in the experiment followed strict guidelines."
• In grammar, the doer of an action: Refers to the noun or pronoun performing the action in a sentence.
  • Example: "In the sentence 'She runs,' 'she' is the subject."

Adjective

• Likely to experience or be affected by something: Describes being prone to or under the influence of.
  • Example: "The schedule is subject to change."

Verb

• To bring under control or influence: Refers to causing someone or something to undergo a particular experience.
  • Example: "The policy subjects employees to annual reviews."