Choosing between “on this matter” and “in this matter” can be confusing because both expressions are grammatically correct and refer to a particular subject, issue, or situation. However, they are not always interchangeable. The prepositions “on” and “in” can create slightly different meanings depending on the context, especially in formal writing, professional communication, and everyday English. Understanding this distinction helps you write more naturally and express your ideas clearly.
Whether you are writing a business email, preparing an academic assignment, or discussing an important issue, using the right expression can improve your communication. Although native English speakers sometimes use both phrases in similar situations, each has its own common patterns and shades of meaning. In this guide, you will learn what “on this matter” and “in this matter” mean, how to use them correctly, and which expression works best in different sentences. You will also discover practical examples, common mistakes, and simple memory tricks to make the difference easier to remember.
Quick Answer
“On this matter” usually refers to discussing, commenting on, or providing information about a particular issue. “In this matter” often refers to someone’s role, involvement, conduct, or position within a situation. Both expressions are correct, but the best choice depends on the intended meaning and sentence context.
Why People Confuse It
People often confuse “on this matter” and “in this matter” because both phrases refer to the same general subject: an issue or situation under discussion.
The confusion comes from the different meanings of the prepositions:
- On often introduces a topic, subject, or issue being discussed.
- In often describes involvement, participation, circumstances, or a position within a situation.
For example:
- “We need your opinion on this matter.” This means someone wants your opinion about an issue.
- “You have no authority in this matter.” This means someone lacks authority within the particular situation.
Both sentences are correct, but changing the preposition may change the emphasis or make the sentence sound less natural.
First Word: On This Matter
“On this matter” is a phrase used when discussing, addressing, commenting on, or providing an opinion about a particular subject or issue.
It is especially common in professional emails, formal discussions, reports, and conversations about decisions or problems.
Meaning of On This Matter
The expression generally means “about this issue” or “regarding this subject.”
Examples include:
- I would like to hear your opinion on this matter.
- The manager will provide further guidance on this matter.
- We have not reached an agreement on this matter.
- Please contact the department for clarification on this matter.
- The committee will issue a statement on this matter.
When to Use On This Matter
Use “on this matter” when you want to:
- Discuss a particular issue.
- Express an opinion or viewpoint.
- Provide advice, information, or clarification.
- Comment on a decision or disagreement.
- Refer to a subject in formal correspondence.
Example in a professional email:
“Thank you for contacting us. We will review your concerns and respond shortly on this matter.”
A slightly more natural alternative in many situations would be “respond to your concerns” or “get back to you about this matter.”
Second Word: In This Matter
“In this matter” is commonly used when referring to a person’s involvement, responsibility, authority, conduct, or position in a particular situation.
It can sound formal or legal, particularly when discussing responsibilities, disputes, decisions, or official proceedings.
Meaning of In This Matter
The expression often means “in this situation,” “regarding this particular case,” or “with respect to one’s role in the issue.”
Examples include:
- I have no further role in this matter.
- The court will make the final decision in this matter.
- You should exercise caution in this matter.
- She acted responsibly in this matter.
- We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
When to Use In This Matter
Use “in this matter” when referring to:
- Someone’s involvement in a situation.
- A person’s role or responsibility.
- Authority or decision-making within a case.
- Conduct or behavior in a particular circumstance.
- A formal or legal situation.
Example in a workplace conversation:
“Please allow the human resources department to handle this matter. You are not directly involved in this matter.”
The phrase emphasizes participation or involvement rather than simply identifying a topic for discussion.
Comparison Table
| Feature | On This Matter | In This Matter |
|---|---|---|
| General meaning | About this issue | Within this situation or case |
| Main emphasis | Discussion or subject | Involvement or circumstances |
| Common use | Opinions, comments, advice | Roles, authority, conduct |
| Tone | Neutral to formal | Often formal |
| Example | We disagree on this matter. | He had no involvement in this matter. |
| Common alternative | About this issue | In this situation |
Remember that these are common tendencies, not absolute rules. The surrounding words and intended meaning determine which preposition is most appropriate.
When to Use Each
Choosing the correct expression becomes easier when you consider what you want to communicate.
Use “On This Matter” for Discussion
Choose this phrase when someone is talking, writing, commenting, or expressing an opinion about an issue.
Examples:
- The director has not commented on this matter.
- We need more information on this matter.
- I would appreciate your advice on this matter.
- Both parties have different views on this matter.
In these sentences, the expression introduces the subject being discussed.
Use “In This Matter” for Involvement
Choose this phrase when discussing someone’s position, actions, or participation in a particular situation.
Examples:
- The employee acted professionally in this matter.
- I cannot interfere in this matter.
- The lawyer will represent the client in this matter.
- The board has the final authority in this matter.
Here, the emphasis is on the person’s role, conduct, or authority within the situation.
Can Both Expressions Be Correct?
Yes. Depending on the sentence, both expressions may be grammatically possible but communicate different meanings.
For example:
- “She advised us on this matter.” This emphasizes the subject of her advice.
- “She assisted us in this matter.” This emphasizes her involvement in the situation.
The verb also influences which preposition sounds most natural.
Examples: On This Matter vs In This Matter
Here are 14 practical examples showing how each expression works in context.
Examples of “On This Matter”
- I would like to share my opinion on this matter.
- The company has released an official statement on this matter.
- We need additional information on this matter before making a decision.
- The teacher provided useful guidance on this matter.
- Please keep me informed of any developments on this matter.
- The two managers disagree on this matter.
- The committee will meet tomorrow to discuss the next steps on this matter.
Examples of “In This Matter”
- I trust your judgment in this matter.
- The lawyer will assist the client in this matter.
- She played an important role in this matter.
- The final decision rests with the director in this matter.
- Please act responsibly in this matter.
- The court will determine the appropriate outcome in this matter.
- We appreciate your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Examples Using Both Expressions
Consider these sentences:
- “The manager shared his opinion on this matter but refused to become involved in this matter.”
- “We need expert advice on this matter because several departments are involved in this matter.”
The first expression introduces discussion, while the second highlights involvement.
Common Mistakes
Even advanced English learners sometimes misuse these phrases. Here are some mistakes to avoid.
1. Assuming the Expressions Are Always Interchangeable
Incorrect assumption: Both phrases mean exactly the same thing in every situation.
Better approach: Choose “on” when emphasizing a topic and “in” when emphasizing involvement or circumstances.
2. Using “In” When Referring to an Opinion
Less natural: “What is your opinion in this matter?”
More natural: “What is your opinion on this matter?”
The preposition “on” is the usual choice with “opinion” when introducing the subject.
3. Using “On” When Emphasizing Involvement
Less natural: “He played an important role on this matter.”
More natural: “He played an important role in this matter.”
The established expression is “play a role in something.”
4. Overusing Formal Expressions
Some writers use “on this matter” and “in this matter” in every professional email, making their writing sound unnecessarily stiff.
Instead of “We will contact you on this matter,” consider “We will contact you about this issue.”
Simple wording is often clearer and more natural.
5. Ignoring the Verb
Different verbs naturally pair with different prepositions.
- Comment on an issue.
- Have an opinion on an issue.
- Play a role in a situation.
- Become involved in a situation.
Learning these common combinations helps you select the right expression.
Memory Trick
Use this simple trick to remember the difference:
ON = Opinion or discussion.
Think of “on” as introducing the subject you are talking about.
Example: “We need your opinion on this matter.”
IN = Involvement or inside the situation.
Think of “in” as describing someone’s position or participation within an issue.
Example: “She was directly involved in this matter.”
This trick is a helpful guideline rather than an inflexible grammar rule. Always check the complete sentence before choosing a preposition.
American vs British English
There is no major difference between American and British English in the basic use of “on this matter” and “in this matter.” Both varieties recognize and use these expressions.
However, the degree of formality and the surrounding wording may vary by context.
American English
American English commonly uses “on this matter” in business communication and public statements.
Example: “We will provide an update on this matter tomorrow.”
“In this matter” is also used, especially when referring to involvement or formal proceedings.
Example: “The department has no further role in this matter.”
British English
British English also uses both expressions in professional, academic, and legal contexts.
Example: “The committee will issue further guidance on this matter.”
Example: “The solicitor will advise you in this matter.”
Which Version Should You Choose?
Neither phrase is exclusively American or British. Choose according to meaning, sentence structure, and the level of formality you need. In both varieties, “about this issue” and “in this situation” can sometimes provide simpler alternatives.
Similar Words and Expressions
Several other phrases can replace “on this matter” or “in this matter,” depending on the intended meaning.
| Expression | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| About this matter | Concerning this issue | We spoke about this matter yesterday. |
| Regarding this matter | In reference to this issue | I am writing regarding this matter. |
| Concerning this issue | Related to the issue | We received a complaint concerning this issue. |
| With regard to this matter | In relation to this issue | With regard to this matter, we need more details. |
| In this situation | Under these circumstances | In this situation, patience is essential. |
| On this issue | About a specific topic | They disagree on this issue. |
| In this case | In these particular circumstances | In this case, the manager will decide. |
| As far as this matter is concerned | Regarding this particular issue | As far as this matter is concerned, we have completed our review. |
For everyday conversations, “about this issue” and “in this situation” often sound more direct. For formal writing, “regarding this matter” may be appropriate, while “on this matter” and “in this matter” work well when their meanings fit the sentence.
FAQs:
1. Is “on this matter” grammatically correct?
Yes. “On this matter” is grammatically correct and commonly used when discussing, commenting on, or expressing an opinion about a particular issue.
Example: “We need your feedback on this matter.”
2. Is “in this matter” grammatically correct?
Yes. “In this matter” is correct when referring to someone’s involvement, responsibility, conduct, or position in a situation.
Example: “I trust your judgment in this matter.”
3. What is the main difference between “on this matter” and “in this matter”?
“On this matter” generally emphasizes the topic being discussed, while “in this matter” often emphasizes involvement or circumstances surrounding an issue.
4. Should I write “your opinion on this matter” or “your opinion in this matter”?
“Your opinion on this matter” is the usual and more natural expression when asking someone what they think about an issue.
5. Can I use “regarding this matter” instead of “on this matter”?
Yes. “Regarding this matter” is a suitable alternative in formal emails, reports, and professional correspondence. It means “about this matter.”
6. Is “in this matter” more formal than “on this matter”?
“In this matter” can sound particularly formal in legal or official contexts, but both expressions are appropriate in formal writing. The sentence and context determine the best choice.
7. Which phrase is better for professional emails?
Both can work. Use “on this matter” when discussing an issue and “in this matter” when referring to involvement or responsibility. For example, “Thank you for your guidance on this matter” is natural in a professional email.
Final Verdict
Both “on this matter” and “in this matter” are correct English expressions, but they serve slightly different purposes. “On this matter” is generally the better choice when discussing a topic, requesting an opinion, providing advice, or commenting on an issue. “In this matter” is often more appropriate when describing someone’s involvement, role, authority, or behavior within a situation.
The most reliable way to choose between them is to examine the complete sentence rather than memorize a rigid rule. Pay attention to the verb, the intended meaning, and the surrounding context. With regular practice, you will find it easier to choose the right preposition and communicate naturally in professional emails, academic writing, and everyday conversations.
Remember This
- On this matter: Think about a topic, opinion, or discussion.
- In this matter: Think about involvement, responsibility, or a situation.
- Example: “What is your opinion on this matter?” versus “What role did you play in this matter?”
- Best tip: Let the intended meaning and the words around the phrase guide your choice.
