From my experience in business and professional fields, including law, academia, and formal writing, I’ve learned that communication depends on language and the subtle nuance of words, making “On This Matter or In This Matter” usage clear and precise.
In my practice, I know that small differences in grammatical choice can carry weight. Choices are deeply contextual and intentional, while breaking apart terms that may seem like fluff at first helps reflect broader meanings and follow trends shaped by real-world usage. I advise younger writers to study practical examples in their field to find the best fit.
Mastering these subtle distinctions helps sharpen style, ensures clarity, and keeps the message understood without confusion. Every example, term, and action contributes to understanding contexts, purposes, and directions, showing how careful language usage in professional communication makes a lasting impact.
Why Preposition Choice Matters
Prepositions may seem small, but their impact on meaning is huge. Consider these sentences:
- “On this matter, the committee has provided guidance.”
- “In this matter, the committee has provided guidance.”
Both are grammatically correct, but each conveys a subtly different focus. The first emphasizes the topic or subject, while the second highlights involvement or participation. Understanding these nuances helps you write clearly, avoid ambiguity, and sound professional in both academic and workplace contexts.
Prepositional accuracy is especially critical in formal writing, legal documents, and professional correspondence. Misusing “on” and “in” can make statements appear vague or incorrectly framed. This guide will provide practical rules, examples, and alternatives that make your writing precise and polished.
Core Grammar Foundation: How Prepositions Shape Meaning
Prepositions define relationships between words in a sentence. They often indicate location, time, direction, or focus. In the case of “on this matter” and “in this matter”, the preposition determines whether you emphasize the topic or your position within it.
On generally signals about, regarding, or concerning. It frames a subject for discussion or analysis.
In, however, signals inside, within, or involved in a situation. It emphasizes participation, responsibility, or the internal context of a case.
Understanding these distinctions is vital, as small prepositional shifts can alter tone, clarity, and interpretation.
Meaning of “On This Matter”: Definition and Context
The phrase “on this matter” is commonly used to indicate that the discussion or statement concerns a specific topic. It implies analysis, opinion, or guidance rather than direct involvement.
Key points about “on this matter”:
- Focuses on the subject or issue.
- Often used in formal writing: academic papers, policy statements, professional reports.
- Conveys detachment, emphasizing ideas rather than action.
Example uses:
- “The professor provided feedback on this matter during the lecture.”
- “On this matter, the management team has decided to implement new guidelines.”
In these examples, the focus is on what is being discussed, not on who is participating directly in it.
Practical Examples of “On This Matter”
| Context | Correct Usage | Incorrect Usage |
| Academic | “On this matter, the research findings suggest a new hypothesis.” | “In this matter, the research findings suggest a new hypothesis.” |
| Workplace | “On this matter, the HR department recommends revising the policy.” | “In this matter, the HR department recommends revising the policy.” |
| Legal/Policy | “On this matter, the board will issue a statement by Friday.” | “In this matter, the board will issue a statement by Friday.” |
Takeaway: Use on this matter when your goal is to focus on the topic rather than your involvement in it.
Meaning of “In This Matter”: Definition and Context
The phrase “in this matter” emphasizes involvement, responsibility, or active participation in a specific situation. It is commonly used in legal, administrative, and procedural contexts.
Key points about “in this matter”:
- Indicates direct involvement or action.
- Common in legal documents, workplace investigations, and formal procedures.
- Conveys engagement and responsibility rather than mere commentary.
Example uses:
- “In this matter, the attorney represented the client’s interests diligently.”
- “In this matter, all employees are required to comply with the new regulations.”
In these cases, the emphasis is on who is acting or who is participating in the issue.
Practical Examples of “In This Matter”
| Context | Correct Usage | Incorrect Usage |
| Legal | “In this matter, the court has reviewed all the evidence.” | “On this matter, the court has reviewed all the evidence.” |
| Workplace | “In this matter, the manager will oversee the project personally.” | “On this matter, the manager will oversee the project personally.” |
| Academic | “In this matter, students must submit supporting documents.” | “On this matter, students must submit supporting documents.” |
Takeaway: Use in this matter when emphasizing active participation, responsibility, or involvement.
Side-by-Side Comparison: “On This Matter” vs. “In This Matter”
| Feature | On This Matter | In This Matter |
| Focus | Topic, subject, discussion | Involvement, responsibility, action |
| Tone | Analytical, observational | Active, procedural, responsible |
| Common Usage | Academic papers, policy statements | Legal documents, investigations, compliance |
| Example | “On this matter, the report highlights key findings.” | “In this matter, the team must submit the report.” |
Quick Tip: Think topic vs. involvement. If you’re talking about something, use on. If you’re talking inside the situation, use in.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Mixing the two phrases in formal writing:
- Wrong: “In this matter, we will provide guidance on the issue.”
- Right: “On this matter, we will provide guidance.”
- Overusing “in this matter” casually:
- Avoid saying: “In this matter, I think pizza is better than burgers.”
- Correct casual phrasing: “On this matter, I think pizza is better.”
- Confusing tone and context:
- Legal documents require precision. Using “on” instead of “in” can imply detachment, which may change responsibility perception.
- Neglecting alternatives: Sometimes clearer phrases avoid the preposition confusion altogether.
Historical and Linguistic Insights
- “On” as a preposition has been used since Middle English to indicate about or concerning. Its usage in formal statements dates back to legal documents in the 16th century.
- “In” as a preposition emphasizes inside or within, commonly appearing in administrative and legal writing since the 18th century.
- Modern usage trends in American English show “on this matter” is preferred in academic and corporate writing, while “in this matter” dominates legal and procedural contexts.
Alternative Phrases for Clarity
Sometimes, you may want simpler or more contemporary alternatives.
For “On This Matter”:
- Regarding this issue
- About this topic
- Concerning this matter
For “In This Matter”:
- Within this case
- With respect to this situation
- Pertaining to this process
Example:
- Original: “On this matter, the committee will meet.”
- Alternative: “Regarding this issue, the committee will meet.”
Context-Based Recommendations
| Audience | Recommended Phrase | Reason |
| Students | On this matter | Focuses on topic, suitable for essays and research papers |
| Teachers | On this matter | Useful in feedback or classroom discussions |
| Professionals | In this matter / On this matter | Use “in” for responsibilities; “on” for reporting topics |
| Legal Experts | In this matter | Signals involvement and procedural accuracy |
Tip: When in doubt, ask yourself: Are you talking about something, or are you actively inside it?
Advanced Usage Notes for Formal and Legal Writing
- In legal documents, precise prepositions are crucial. “In this matter” implies judicial or procedural involvement, while “on this matter” may sound advisory or observational.
- Regulatory and administrative writing often uses both phrases but carefully distinguishes them:
- “On this matter, the agency provides guidance.” (topic focus)
- “In this matter, the company must comply with regulations.” (involvement required)
- Diplomatic or bureaucratic communication may use these phrases to subtly convey responsibility, authority, or detachment.
Conclusion
Understanding when to use “On This Matter” or “In This Matter” comes down to context, tone, and clarity. In professional fields like law, academia, and business, subtle differences in language and phrases can signal involvement or direction.
Choosing words carefully avoids ambiguity, keeps the meaning clear, and ensures your message is understood. Over time, mastering these distinctions helps sharpen style, reflect broader meanings, and maintain effective communication.
FAQs
Q1: What is the difference between “On This Matter” and “In This Matter”?
A1: “On This Matter” usually refers to discussions, opinions, or comments about a topic, while “In This Matter” refers to involvement or action within a specific context.
Q2: Can these phrases be used interchangeably?
A2: Not always. The choice depends on the context, tone, and whether you are referring to discussion (on) or participation/action (in) regarding a matter.
Q3: Are these phrases formal or informal?
A3: Both phrases are formal and professional, commonly used in law, academia, business, and formal writing.
Q4: How can I avoid confusion when using these phrases?
A4: Carefully select the phrase based on context, purpose, and direction of the message, ensuring clarity and precise communication.
Q5: Do small grammatical differences really matter in professional writing?
A5: Yes. Even small differences can carry significant weight in tone, meaning, and how your message is understood across fields.
