Another Word for Theme: 13 Synonyms with Examples
A theme is the main idea or subject of a work, talk or event. Swap it when you mean the general topic, a repeated idea or a decorative style.
As a noun: the main idea or subject
As a noun: a style used throughout
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- subject
- What a work is about, more literal than "theme".
- topic
- A subject for discussion, usually narrower.
- motif
- A repeated image or idea in art, music or writing.
- thread
- An idea running through a story or argument.
- message
- The lesson or point a work tries to get across.
- thesis
- The main argument of an essay; academic.
Example sentences
- subject: The subject of the painting is a busy harbour.
- topic: Each week the class discusses a different topic.
- motif: Birds appear as a motif throughout the film.
- thread: A thread of hope runs through even the darkest chapters.
- message: The play's message is that kindness costs nothing.
- thesis: State your thesis clearly in the first paragraph.
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “theme”. Check the meaning before you use one.
noun: composition, paper, report
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “theme”?
The most useful alternatives are “subject”, “topic”, “idea”, “thread”, “motif”. For the main sense (the main idea or subject), “subject” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “subject” and “topic”?
subject: What a work is about, more literal than "theme". topic: A subject for discussion, usually narrower.