a genuine issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a genuine issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a problem or concern that is real and significant, often in legal or formal contexts. Example: "The court found that there was a genuine issue of material fact that required a trial."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

It's a genuine issue.

The New York Times

This is a genuine issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

For once, right-wingers really do have a genuine issue.

The New York Times

However, having said all of this, there is a genuine issue of contention between us.

The Guardian - Opinion

This isn't about "political correctness or deference to Islamist thinking," he insists, "it's a genuine issue of London's safety".

The Guardian - Opinion

If that were a genuine issue, Hilary Benn, being a humanitarian and a good European, would be leading a "Labour 4 Nukes" coach tour of European capitals.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

By the way, if one of your employees is suffering from a genuine issue--addiction, depression, that kind of thing--don't suggest they get help, insist upon it.

Huffington Post

They claimed that Collymore would only "exacerbate any genuine issues with ill advised, inaccurate and inane interventions".

Independent

"I have a genuine ethical issue to take care of people who are trying hard to take care of their own countries".

The New York Times

Anyone has a right to buy genuine issue ads at any time, and they also have the right, under McCain-Feingold, to spend their quota of campaign donations to finance ads that are intended to help one particular candidate or party.

The New York Times

I've never had to do it myself (except in training), and, again, it's really for cases when you believe there is a genuine security issue.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a genuine issue", ensure that the context clearly establishes the issue's validity and significance. This phrase is most effective when you want to emphasize that something is not just a superficial concern, but a matter that requires attention and consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "a genuine issue" to describe trivial or self-evident problems. This phrase carries weight, so reserve it for situations where the issue's authenticity might be questioned or needs emphasizing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a genuine issue" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject complement or object in a sentence, identifying a problem or matter that is real and not fabricated. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a genuine issue" is a phrase used to describe a problem or concern that is authentic and significant. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. To enhance your writing, remember that this phrase is most effective when you need to emphasize the reality and importance of a specific matter. While it's a common phrase, avoid overusing it for trivial matters. Consider using synonyms like "a real issue" or "a legitimate concern" for variety. By being mindful of these points, you can use "a genuine issue" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a real issue

Replaces "genuine" with "real", emphasizing the actuality of the problem.

a serious issue

Substitutes "genuine" with "serious", highlighting the gravity of the issue.

a legitimate concern

Replaces "issue" with "concern" and "genuine" with "legitimate", focusing on the validity of the worry.

an authentic problem

Emphasizes the undisputed nature of the problem, stronger than a simple issue.

a valid point

Shifts the focus to the justification and pertinence of the topic.

a pressing matter

Highlights the urgency and demand for attention that the problem needs.

a critical problem

Stresses the severity and potential consequences of the situation.

a substantive question

Indicates the importance and depth of the matter being considered.

a considerable challenge

Highlights the difficulty and effort required to address the issue.

a noteworthy predicament

Stresses the unusual, interesting, or important nature of the difficult situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a genuine issue" to highlight a real and significant problem. For example, "Youth unemployment is "a genuine issue" that needs to be addressed".

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

Alternatives include "a real issue", "a serious issue", or "a legitimate concern". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very genuine issue"?

While not grammatically incorrect, adding "very" to "a genuine issue" can sound redundant. "Genuine" already implies authenticity, so it's usually more effective to let the context emphasize the issue's importance. Consider alternatives like "a critical problem" if you need to stress the severity.

What's the difference between "a genuine issue" and "a potential issue"?

"A genuine issue" refers to a problem that exists and is affecting the current situation. "A potential issue" refers to a problem that could occur in the future. For example, "Climate change is "a genuine issue"" versus "Lack of funding is "a potential issue" for the project".