Many English learners struggle with small phrases that look almost the same but mean different things. “On this matter” and “in this matter” are a perfect example.
At first glance, they seem interchangeable. Both include the word “matter,” and both talk about a topic or situation. So it’s easy to mix them up.
But here’s the truth: these two phrases are used in different ways, and using the wrong one can make your sentence sound unnatural or confusing.
This confusion happens because English prepositions like on and in don’t always follow simple rules. In some languages, one word may cover both meanings. In English, each preposition adds a slightly different idea.
Understanding this difference is very useful. You will hear these phrases in formal English, workplace conversations, emails, and even news reports.
Knowing how to use them correctly can make your English sound clearer and more natural.
After reading this, you will clearly understand:
- What “on this matter” means
- What “in this matter” means
- How they are different
- When to use each one confidently
What Does “On This Matter” Mean?
Simple Definition
“On this matter” means about this topic or regarding this issue.
It is used when you are talking, giving opinions, or sharing information about a specific subject.
When to Use It
Use “on this matter” when:
- You are discussing a topic
- Giving an opinion
- Sharing advice or information
- Talking generally about an issue
Grammar Rule
“On this matter” uses the preposition on, which often means:
- about something
- concerning something
So, the structure is:
Verb + on this matter
Example Sentences
- I have something important to say on this matter.
- She gave her opinion on this matter clearly.
- We need more information on this matter.
- The teacher spoke on this matter for an hour.
- He refused to comment on this matter.
- Do you have any ideas on this matter?
- They are still discussing on this matter.
- The manager will decide on this matter tomorrow.
Common Learner Confusion
Many learners think “on this matter” is always formal. Yes, it is often used in formal English, but it is also fine in everyday speech.
Another confusion is using “in this matter” when talking about opinions. This is incorrect. If you are talking about a topic, you should use “on.”
What Does “In This Matter” Mean?
Simple Definition
“In this matter” means in this situation or within this case.
It is used when talking about a specific situation, event, or legal case.
When to Use It
Use “in this matter” when:
- You are referring to a situation or case
- Talking about actions taken within that situation
- Describing involvement in a case or issue
Grammar Rule
“In this matter” uses the preposition in, which often means:
- inside a situation
- within a context or case
So, the structure is:
Verb + in this matter
Example Sentences
- She was deeply involved in this matter.
- We cannot interfere in this matter.
- He has no role in this matter.
- The police are investigating in this matter.
- They acted quickly in this matter.
- I don’t want to get involved in this matter.
- The court will decide in this matter.
- She handled everything carefully in this matter.
Common Learner Confusion
Learners often use “in this matter” when they want to say “about this topic.” This is incorrect.
“In this matter” is not for giving opinions. It is for describing involvement or actions within a situation.
Difference Between “On This Matter” and “In This Matter” (Detailed)
Comparison Table
| Feature | On This Matter | In This Matter |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | About a topic | Inside a situation |
| Use | Discussion, opinion | Involvement, action |
| Preposition | On = about | In = inside |
| Focus | Topic or subject | Situation or case |
| Common Use | Speaking, writing | Legal, formal, actions |
Usage Difference
- Use “on this matter” when talking about something
- Use “in this matter” when talking within a situation
Grammar Logic
The difference comes from the prepositions:
- On → surface or topic → “about”
- In → inside or within → “within a situation”
Sentence Structure Difference
- “On this matter” → often follows verbs like:
- speak
- comment
- explain
- discuss
- “In this matter” → often follows verbs like:
- act
- involve
- interfere
- decide
Meaning Comparison
Compare these:
- I spoke on this matter.
→ I talked about the topic - I acted in this matter.
→ I took action in the situation
Small change, big difference.
Grammar Rules You Must Remember
: Use “on” for opinions and discussions
✔ She shared her thoughts on this matter.
: Use “in” for actions and involvement
✔ He was involved in this matter.
: Never mix them in the same meaning
❌ I spoke in this matter (wrong)
✔ I spoke on this matter (correct)
: Think of “on” = topic, “in” = situation
✔ We need clarity on this matter (topic)
✔ He played a key role in this matter (situation)
Common Mistakes Students Make
Why Mistakes Happen
- Prepositions are confusing
- Direct translation from native language
- Both phrases look similar
Wrong vs Correct Examples
❌ I gave my opinion in this matter
✔ I gave my opinion on this matter
❌ He has something to say in this matter
✔ He has something to say on this matter
❌ She spoke on this matter and was involved on it
✔ She spoke on this matter and was involved in it
Easy Correction Tips
- Ask: “Am I talking about something?” → Use on
- Ask: “Am I inside the situation?” → Use in
Easy Trick to Remember the Difference
Think of it like this:
- ON = talking ON a topic (like speaking on stage)
- IN = being IN a situation (inside it)
Imagine:
- You stand on a stage to talk → “on this matter”
- You are in a room dealing with a problem → “in this matter”
This simple image helps a lot.
Daily Life Examples (Very Important)
These are real-life style sentences:
- I don’t agree with you on this matter.
- Can we talk on this matter later?
- She has strong views on this matter.
- I need your advice on this matter.
- He doesn’t want to get involved in this matter.
- Please don’t interfere in this matter.
- The manager will act in this matter soon.
- I trust you to handle this in this matter.
- We are still confused on this matter.
- She played an important role in this matter.
Practice Section
Choose the correct option:
- I want to speak ___ this matter.
- He is involved ___ this matter.
- She shared her opinion ___ this matter.
- Please don’t interfere ___ this matter.
- We need clarity ___ this matter.
Answers
- on
- in
- on
- in
- on
FAQs
What is the difference between “on this matter” and “in this matter”?
“On this matter” means about a topic. “In this matter” means inside a situation or case. One is for discussion, the other for involvement.
Can we use “on this matter” in questions?
Yes, you can. It is very common.
Example: Do you have any opinion on this matter?
Is “in this matter” formal or informal?
It is more formal. It is often used in legal or serious situations, but it can also appear in everyday English.
Can both be used in the same sentence?
Yes, but they must have different meanings.
Example: She spoke on this matter and acted in this matter wisely.
Why do learners confuse these phrases?
Because both phrases look similar and translate the same in some languages. The difference depends on the preposition.
Which one is more common in daily English?
“On this matter” is more common in daily conversations because people often share opinions and discuss topics.
Final Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “on this matter” and “in this matter” can greatly improve your English clarity. These small phrases may seem simple, but they carry different meanings.
“On this matter” is used when you are talking about a topic, sharing ideas, or giving opinions. “In this matter” is used when you are inside a situation, involved in a case, or taking action.
The key is to remember the role of the prepositions:
- “On” connects to topics
- “In” connects to situations
With practice, this difference becomes natural. Try using both phrases in your daily speaking and writing. Make small sentences, notice how others use them, and slowly build confidence.
Clear English comes from understanding small details like this. Keep learning step by step, and your fluency will grow stronger every day.
I am Nathan Scott, a passionate English grammar educator and content writer at GrammarVers, dedicated to helping learners improve their language skills through simple lessons, practical examples, and effective learning resources.
