Topic

Definition

Topic refers to the subject of a discussion, conversation, essay, or any form of communication. It is the main idea or focus around which information is organized.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɑː.pɪk/
• Respelling: TAH-pik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɒp.ɪk/
• Respelling: TOP-ik

Etymology

The word "topic" originates from the Latin "topica," which derives from the Greek "topikos," meaning "pertaining to a place" or "local." It is rooted in "topos," meaning "place." In rhetoric, it referred to commonplaces or categories used for organizing arguments.

Derivatives

• Topical (adjective)
• Topically (adverb)
• Subtopic (noun)
• Topicality (noun)
• Retopic (verb, rare)

Synonyms

• Subject
• Theme
• Focus

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "topic" is commonly used to indicate the central idea of a discussion, as in "The topic of today's lecture is climate change." It is also used to refer to specific categories within broader contexts, such as "We divided the report into several topics for clarity."

Related Terms

• Subject: The focus of a conversation, study, or presentation.
• Theme: A central idea or underlying message in a discussion or creative work.
• Category: A classification of similar or related ideas.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The subject of a discussion or conversation: Refers to the primary focus of a dialogue or debate.
  • Example: "Education was the main topic of the panel discussion."
• A subject or category in academic or creative contexts: Refers to the focus of research, essays, or literary work.
  • Example: "Her thesis explored various topics related to social justice."
• A division of information or study: Refers to a specific area within a larger body of knowledge.
  • Example: "The book is divided into several topics for easier understanding."