Matters

Matters is a word with several related uses in English. It is the plural form of matter when referring to physical substances, and it also appears in phrases that denote topics, issues, or concerns. When capitalized as Matters, it can function as a proper noun in titles or names. The term thus covers both material reality and abstract subjects.

In science, matter is defined as anything that has mass and occupies space. It includes the familiar states of solids, liquids, and gases, as well as plasma in extreme conditions. Matter is composed of atoms and molecules, and its properties—such as weight, density, and composition—are studied across chemistry and physics. Antimatter is a form of matter made of antiparticles with properties opposite to ordinary matter.

In philosophy, matter is discussed as the substrate of physical reality, often in dialogue with form, mind, or spirit. Debates around materialism versus immaterialism address questions about what is fundamentally real and how physical reality relates to thought and experience.

In law and governance, the term matters is used to designate issues that require decision or adjudication, such as matters before the court or policy matters. In everyday language, phrases like “this matters” express significance, while “no matter” can indicate conditional acceptability or indifference in specific contexts.

Overall, matters serves as a versatile term linking the concrete world of substances to the abstract realm of topics and concerns, with usage varying by discipline and context.