“Theme” vs. “Topic”: What’s the Difference?
Jul 11, 2023
Engram
The difference between “theme” and “topic”
- A theme is an underlying message, while a topic is a specific subject matter.
- Themes are often abstract and can be universal, while topics can be more concrete and specific or abstract.
- Themes can be inferred through various elements within a work, while topics are usually presented outright.
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What is the definition of “theme” and “topic”?
Theme
- A theme refers to the underlying message or central idea conveyed by a work of literature.
- Themes can be inferred through the characters, plot, setting, and other elements within the work.
- A theme can also be the subject of a talk, event, or exhibition.
Topic
- A topic refers to the subject matter or specific issue presented in a work of literature, occasion, or conversation.
- It is usually more concrete than a theme and can often be summarized in a single word or phrase.
- Topics can vary greatly in scope, from broad societal issues to personal relationships and experiences.
Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?
“Topic” is the more popular variant on the web.
Theme
1,450,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- The movie's theme is about overcoming adversity.
- The book's central theme is the power of friendship.
- The theme of the party is Hawaiian luau.
More popular
Topic
1,790,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- The topic of the meeting is the company's quarterly performance.
- The conversation shifted to the topic of climate change.
- The teacher introduced a new topic in class today — the French Revolution.
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