a chronic issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a chronic issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or condition that persists over a long period of time and is often difficult to resolve. Example: "The company has been facing a chronic issue with employee turnover, which has affected productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

It was a chronic issue when I came.

The New York Times

He has a chronic issue with the Achilles.

The New York Times - Sports

Such margins are a chronic issue with respect to future investment and innovation in the trade.

The Guardian - Business

Without interventions for a segment of those in need, homelessness will remain a chronic issue.

The New York Times

This is a chronic issue that The Times and all newspapers face: How much can reporters and editors assume readers know?

The New York Times

Civic respect is a chronic issue in Yonkers, the fourth-largest city in the state, with almost 200,000 residents, fated to sit next door to the biggest, brashest city in the country.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

So, too, in Marshall's forthcoming memoir, "My Mother Was Nuts," the setups — "I was concerned about being around Robert Redford when I had a chronic flatulence issue" — rarely land on the expected whoopee cushions.

The New Yorker

I myself have a chronic circulation issue with my lower right leg and expect one day to lose that foot.

Vice

Rasciot said the reason for worsening lines was a combination of a chronic understaffing issue and the need to accommodate changing security threats.

Vice

Viewed as more of an acute or episodic problem, or a longer term coping strategy than a chronic medical issue, most GP's interviewed perceived self-harm as being on a 'spectrum of risk' for suicide.

Family Practice

"I wanted an expert in that field to assist us with this chronic issue," he told the Sun-Sentinel.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a chronic issue", ensure the context clearly indicates the problem's prolonged or recurring nature. This adds depth and accuracy to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a chronic issue" as a vague term. Always specify the nature of the issue to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the project faced a chronic issue", specify "the project faced a chronic issue with funding delays".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a chronic issue" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object within a sentence. Ludwig confirms its usability. It typically identifies a recurring or long-lasting problem.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a chronic issue" is a noun phrase used to describe a problem that is persistent or recurring over a long period. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, from News & Media to Science and Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and specificity to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "a persistent problem" or "a recurring issue" can be used for variety. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase without providing sufficient context. Be aware of the nature of the source when using it, as it has a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a persistent issue

Focuses on the continuing nature of the problem.

a recurring problem

Highlights the repetitive nature of the problem.

a long-standing problem

Emphasizes the problem's duration.

an ongoing problem

Stresses the current and continuing nature of the problem.

a continuing issue

Similar to ongoing, but can imply less intensity.

an endemic problem

Suggests the issue is widespread and deeply rooted.

a deep-seated issue

Indicates that the problem is fundamental and difficult to resolve.

an age-old problem

Highlights the historical nature of the problem.

a systemic issue

Points to a problem that's inherent to a system or organization.

a fundamental issue

Emphasizes the basic or essential nature of the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a chronic issue" to describe a problem that has persisted for a long time. For example, "The lack of funding is "a chronic issue" for many public schools".

What are some alternatives to saying "a chronic issue"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a persistent problem", "a recurring issue", or "a long-standing problem", which all convey the sense of a long-term or recurring difficulty.

Is it better to say "chronic issue" or "acute issue"?

The choice depends on the context. "Chronic issue" refers to a long-lasting or recurring problem, while "acute issue" describes a sudden or short-term problem. For instance, "diabetes is "a chronic issue"", whereas "food poisoning is an acute issue".

What's the difference between "a chronic issue" and "a habitual issue"?

"A chronic issue" implies a long-term or recurring problem, whereas "a habitual issue" suggests a problem that is caused by a regular practice or behavior. For example, "procrastination can be a habitual issue for many students".