Synonyms for

Themes

Verb / θi:mz / Another word for themes — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Themes are the main subjects or ideas that a story, piece of music, or artwork is based on.

Synonyms & similar words

topic paper motif composition melodictheme rootword musicaltheme report base stem subject root idea radical theme subjects topics motifs ideas messages threads issues concepts plotlines storylines narratives plots matters questions problems themes undertones overtures leitmotifs tropes

Synonyms by register

Formal

subjects topics concepts issues

Informal

ideas points vibes stuff

Literary

motifs undercurrents essences

Antonyms

details specifics facts realities actualities particulars

Common collocations

  • main themes
  • central themes
  • recurring themes
  • explore themes
  • underlying themes
  • thematic elements
  • common themes

Word family

noun theme
verb thematize
adjective thematic

Usage note

While 'themes' often refers to the main ideas in a work of art or literature, it can also be used more broadly for subjects or topics of discussion. Avoid using it for specific plot points.

Example sentences

  1. The theme of the party was superheroes.
  2. The theme of the book was about a magical land.
  3. The theme of the painting was the ocean.
  4. The theme of the song was love.
  5. The theme of the movie was about time travel.

Quotes

  • A theme is a memory aid, it helps you through the presentation just like it also helps the audience to follow the presentation.
  • The theme is the theme of humiliation, which is sort of a cousin to the theme of pain.
  • The theme of the party was Alice in Wonderland, so we had a lot of mushrooms.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words