On This Matter vs In This Matter: Which One Is Correct?
On This Matter vs In This Matter is a common grammar question that confuses many English learners, writers, and professionals. 🤔 Although these two phrases look similar, they are used in different contexts and can change the meaning and tone of a sentence. Many people wonder whether they should write “on this matter” or “in this matter” when discussing a topic, issue, legal case, or professional situation.
Understanding the difference between On This Matter vs In This Matter is important for clear and accurate communication. While on this matter is typically used when referring to a subject or topic under discussion, in this matter often appears in formal, legal, or business contexts when referring to a specific case or situation. Choosing the correct phrase helps your writing sound more natural, professional, and grammatically correct.
In this guide, you’ll learn the meanings, grammar rules, examples, common mistakes, and practical usage tips related to On This Matter vs In This Matter, allowing you to use both expressions with confidence.
Quick Answer: On This Matter vs In This Matter
“On this matter” means about this topic, issue, or subject. It is commonly used when discussing or giving information regarding something.
“In this matter” means within this case, situation, issue, or proceeding. It is often used in legal, formal, or administrative contexts.
Quick Rule:
- Use on this matter when talking about a topic.
- Use in this matter when referring within a specific case, situation, or process.
Understanding the Basics of On This Matter vs In This Matter
The confusion comes from the prepositions on and in.
Prepositions can completely change the meaning of a phrase.
Comparison Table
| Form | Type | Meaning | Example | Correct/Incorrect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On this matter | Prepositional phrase | About this issue or topic | I would like your opinion on this matter. | ✅ Correct |
| In this matter | Prepositional phrase | Within this case or situation | The court made a decision in this matter. | ✅ Correct |
| On this matter | Used for discussion | Refers to a subject being discussed | She commented on this matter. | ✅ Correct |
| In this matter | Used for involvement | Refers to participation within a situation | We have no authority in this matter. | ✅ Correct |
Core Difference
Think of it this way:
- On = About
- In = Within
This simple rule solves most usage questions.
Also Read This: Prescribe vs Proscribe
Correct Meanings and Uses
Using “On This Matter”
The phrase on this matter means about this topic or issue.
It is used when discussing, commenting, explaining, or expressing an opinion.
Examples
✅ I would like to hear your thoughts on this matter.
Breakdown:
- Thoughts = opinion
- On this matter = about the issue
✅ The manager spoke on this matter during the meeting.
Breakdown:
- Spoke = discussed
- On this matter = about the topic
✅ We need additional information on this matter.
Test Tip ✅
Replace the phrase with “about this issue.”
If the sentence still makes sense, use on this matter.
Example:
- We need more information about this issue.
- We need more information on this matter.
Both work perfectly.
Using “In This Matter”
The phrase in this matter refers to being involved within a specific situation, case, dispute, or proceeding.
It is common in legal and formal writing.
Examples
✅ The judge ruled in this matter yesterday.
Breakdown:
- Matter = legal case
- In this matter = within this case
✅ She has extensive experience in this matter.
Breakdown:
- Refers to involvement in the situation
✅ The agency has authority in this matter.
Test Tip ✅
Replace the phrase with “within this case” or “within this situation.”
If it fits naturally, use in this matter.
Example:
- The court acted within this case.
- The court acted in this matter.
When Both Can Appear in Similar Sentences
Sometimes both phrases can appear around the same topic but carry different meanings.
Example
✅ I would like your opinion on this matter.
Meaning:
- About the issue.
✅ You have no role in this matter.
Meaning:
- Within the situation itself.
Notice how the meaning changes even though the topic remains the same.
Case Study Section
Workplace Email Example
Imagine a project deadline is delayed.
Incorrect Email
“I would appreciate your assistance in this matter regarding the project timeline.”
The sentence sounds awkward because the writer wants information about the issue.
Better Version
“I would appreciate your assistance on this matter regarding the project timeline.”
Now the sentence clearly asks for help about the issue.
Another Example
“The legal department will make the final decision in this matter.”
This is correct because the legal department is involved within the case or situation.
Lesson Learned
- Discussion = on this matter
- Participation or authority = in this matter
Grammar Rules Explanation
Understanding the grammar behind these expressions makes the distinction easier.
Why “On This Matter” Works
The preposition on often means:
- Concerning
- About
- Regarding
Examples:
- A book on history
- A report on climate change
- Advice on investments
Therefore:
- Advice on this matter
- Information on this matter
- Opinions on this matter
all follow standard English patterns.
Why “In This Matter” Works
The preposition in usually indicates:
- Inside
- Within
- During
- As part of
Examples:
- In this case
- In this situation
- In this dispute
Likewise:
- In this matter
- In this legal proceeding
- In this investigation
These phrases indicate involvement within a particular context.
What Grammar Authorities Say
According to standard English usage reflected in dictionaries and style references such as Merriam-Webster, prepositions carry specific relationships.
- On commonly expresses a subject or topic.
- In commonly expresses location, inclusion, or participation within something.
That distinction explains why the two phrases are used differently.
Common Mistakes Section
Many writers mix up these expressions because both contain the word matter.
Here are the main reasons:
Fast Typing ⚡
People often choose the first phrase that comes to mind.
Autocorrect 📱
Writing tools rarely flag this mistake because both phrases are grammatically correct.
Lack of Knowledge 📚
Many users do not realize the preposition changes the meaning.
Common Mistake Examples
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| Please share your opinion in this matter. | Please share your opinion on this matter. |
| The court ruled on this matter. | The court ruled in this matter. |
| We need advice in this matter. | We need advice on this matter. |
| The agency has jurisdiction on this matter. | The agency has jurisdiction in this matter. |
Similar Grammar Confusions
| Confusing Pair | Correct Usage |
|---|---|
| It’s vs Its | Contraction vs Possession |
| Your vs You’re | Possessive vs Contraction |
| Affect vs Effect | Verb vs Noun |
| Then vs Than | Time vs Comparison |
| Who’s vs Whose | Contraction vs Possession |
| On This Matter vs In This Matter | About vs Within |
Usage in Different Contexts
Everyday Conversation
Most people use on this matter in casual speech.
Examples
- What is your opinion on this matter?
- We disagree on this matter.
- Let’s talk more on this matter later.
Professional Writing
Business communication frequently uses both phrases.
Examples
- Please provide clarification on this matter.
- Human Resources will decide in this matter.
- Management seeks feedback on this matter.
Creative Writing
Authors use the phrases differently based on context.
Examples
- The villagers remained divided on this matter.
- The king refused to interfere in this matter.
Social Media and Texting
People usually prefer simpler alternatives.
Examples
- Thoughts on this?
- What do you think about this?
- Stay out of this matter.
Even in casual writing, the distinction remains the same.
Why It Matters
Using the correct phrase affects more than grammar.
Clarity in Communication
Readers immediately understand your intended meaning.
Incorrect:
- Please advise in this matter.
Correct:
- Please advise on this matter.
The second version clearly requests guidance about the issue.
Professionalism
Correct usage makes emails, reports, and presentations appear polished.
Employers, clients, and colleagues notice strong communication skills.
Accuracy in Digital Communication
Online communication happens quickly.
Choosing the right phrase prevents confusion and unnecessary follow-up questions.
A Helpful Quote 💡
“Clear language creates clear understanding.”
The right preposition can make a significant difference.
Special Exception Section
Legal Writing Exception
In legal contexts, matter often means case, proceeding, or dispute.
Therefore, in this matter appears much more frequently.
Examples:
- Counsel represents the client in this matter.
- The court issued an order in this matter.
- Evidence was submitted in this matter.
However, legal professionals may still use on this matter when discussing opinions or information about the case.
Example:
- We need further guidance on this matter.
Both can be correct depending on the intended meaning.
Quick Recap Checklist
Decision Table
| Question | If Yes → Use |
|---|---|
| Are you discussing a topic? | On this matter |
| Are you giving an opinion? | On this matter |
| Are you requesting information? | On this matter |
| Are you referring to a case or proceeding? | In this matter |
| Are you talking about involvement within a situation? | In this matter |
| Are you describing authority or jurisdiction? | In this matter |
Practice Examples
Example 1
I need your feedback ___ this matter.
✅ Answer: On this matter
Example 2
The court will decide ___ this matter.
✅ Answer: In this matter
Example 3
We require more information ___ this matter.
✅ Answer: On this matter
FAQs About On This Matter vs In This Matter
Is “on this matter” grammatically correct?
Yes. It is grammatically correct and means about this topic or issue.
Is “in this matter” grammatically correct?
Yes. It is grammatically correct and typically means within this case, situation, or proceeding.
Which is more common in business writing?
On this matter is more common because business communication often discusses topics and issues.
Which phrase is more common in legal writing?
In this matter is more common because legal documents usually refer to cases, proceedings, and disputes.
Can I use both interchangeably?
Not always.
Although they may relate to the same subject, they express different meanings.
- On this matter = about the issue
- In this matter = within the issue or case
How can I remember the difference easily?
Use this memory trick:
✅ On = About
✅ In = Within
If you remember those two words, you will usually choose the correct phrase.
Conclusion
The distinction between On This Matter vs In This Matter is simpler than it first appears. The key lies in understanding the role of the preposition.
Use on this matter when talking about a topic, issue, opinion, or discussion. Use in this matter when referring within a case, situation, dispute, or proceeding. While both phrases are grammatically correct, they serve different purposes and should not be treated as interchangeable in every context.
Whether you are writing professional emails, legal documents, academic papers, or everyday messages, selecting the right phrase improves clarity, accuracy, and credibility. A small preposition can make a big difference in how your message is understood.
Remember the simple rule: On means about. In means within. Master that distinction, and you will never be confused by these two expressions again.
Hi, I’m Matthew Clark, a content writer who loves creating simple and helpful articles. I focus on making grammar and writing easy to understand so readers can learn quickly and improve their skills.
