a burning issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"a burning issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom used to describe an important and urgent matter that requires immediate attention or resolution. Example: The debate on climate change has become a burning issue in recent years.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It is a burning issue here".

The New York Times

Divorce has been a burning issue on Malta for decades.

Independent

This could prove a burning issue in the 2008 campaign.

The New York Times

Unsurprisingly, education was never a burning issue for Del Toro.

The Guardian - Film

This is a burning issue that has to be settled.

The Guardian

WORK, RARELY I'll only work on Sunday if there's a burning issue.

The New York Times

Genocide is a burning issue for us, now and in the past.

The New York Times

No one is predicting that crime will become a burning issue for either candidate this election.

The New York Times

A Fox News blog takes on a burning issue: musicians with stage names.

The New Yorker

"Unless there's a burning issue, they're not going to the polls".

The New York Times

It is not a burning issue, but still you have to wonder.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a burning issue" to describe topics that generate strong emotions or require immediate action. Ensure the context supports the sense of urgency and importance.

Common error

Avoid using "a burning issue" for minor problems or insignificant matters. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a burning issue" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or direct object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, it describes something of great importance and urgency. It identifies a topic that is intensely debated and demands immediate attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a burning issue" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a highly important and urgent matter. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, where it highlights topics of great public concern. To ensure clarity and impact, avoid overusing it in trivial contexts. The phrase effectively conveys a sense of urgency and significance, making it a valuable tool for emphasizing critical subjects in both formal and informal communication. Consider alternatives such as "a critical matter" or "a pressing concern" depending on the specific meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an urgent problem

Focuses specifically on the time-sensitive nature of the problem.

a critical matter

Emphasizes the importance of the issue.

a pressing concern

Highlights the urgency and need for immediate action.

a crucial problem

Focuses on the problematic nature and significance.

a significant challenge

Highlights the difficulty and importance of the issue.

a vital question

Underscores the importance of finding an answer or resolution.

a top priority

Indicates that the issue needs immediate attention above other matters.

a central point

Highlights the importance and relevance to the main discussion.

a key subject

Emphasizes its relevance and significance in the given context.

a major crisis

Highlights the severity and potentially damaging impact of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "a burning issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a burning issue" to describe a topic that is currently very important and causes strong feelings. For example, "Climate change is "a burning issue" for many voters".

What are some alternatives to "a burning issue"?

Alternatives include "a critical matter", "a pressing concern", or "an urgent problem", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a burning issue" in formal writing?

Yes, "a burning issue" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports, academic papers, or business documents when discussing urgent or critical matters. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What makes an issue qualify as "a burning issue"?

An issue qualifies as "a burning issue" when it is characterized by high levels of public concern, often involving significant debate and requiring immediate attention or resolution. It typically elicits strong emotions and widespread discussion.