a hidden issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hidden issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a problem or concern that is not immediately obvious or visible. Example: "During the investigation, we discovered a hidden issue that had been affecting the project's progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The waiting time for CAMHS is not a hidden issue.

The Guardian

And those conversations shattered secrets and shame and gave faces to a hidden issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Since this is such a hidden issue, the actual numbers are assumed to be much higher.

The Guardian

Of course, rape is to some extent a hidden issue everywhere, even in societies with efficient legal systems and liberal attitudes toward women.

The New York Times

But perhaps it is because hunger is a "hidden" issue – and discretion necessary – that there is still widespread haziness about what food banks do.

The Guardian

A Hidden Issue Emerges" (Week in Review, June 4), politicians in both parties are vying to define themselves as committed to protecting Americans' privacy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It might not be as dramatic as high jobless rates, but as a more hidden issue has a huge effect on those experiencing it.

The Guardian

Today, we're talking about body image, which you say is a huge, hidden issue for you and other contestants.

Huffington Post

As a weedy, little Jewish boy, whose sexuality was a troubled and hidden issue, the army bore a close resemblence to my worst nightmare.

The Guardian - Travel

"By raising awareness, this campaign is generating increased support for protecting vulnerable children – shining a light on this too-often hidden issue … making the invisible 'visible.'" He called on board members to support the UNICEF-led #ENDviolence social media campaign.

Unicef

Dementia has been a hidden health issue in Taiwan in the elderly population.

BMC Nephrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a hidden issue", ensure the context clarifies who or what is hiding the issue and why. Providing this context enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a hidden issue" without specifying the domain or area it pertains to. General statements lack impact; be specific (e.g., "a hidden issue in the education system").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hidden issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "hidden" modifies the noun "issue". It describes a problem or concern that is not immediately obvious or visible. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a hidden issue" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a problem that is not immediately obvious. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread use. It functions as a noun phrase, drawing attention to underlying complexities across various domains, most notably in News & Media. While versatile, specificity enhances its impact; overuse without context dilutes its effectiveness. Alternatives like "an underlying problem" or "an unacknowledged problem" offer nuanced options for expressing similar concepts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the area to which the issue pertains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a concealed matter

Similar to "a hidden issue", focusing on the act of hiding something.

an underlying problem

Indicates the issue is fundamental and at the root of other problems.

a masked problem

Suggests the issue is disguised or not easily seen.

an unacknowledged problem

This alternative emphasizes the lack of recognition or admission of the issue.

a veiled concern

This highlights the issue being covered or disguised.

an unspoken challenge

Focuses on the issue not being openly discussed or addressed.

a latent difficulty

Suggests the issue exists but is not currently active or prominent.

an unrecognized factor

Highlights the lack of awareness or acknowledgement of the issue's importance.

a subtle matter

Emphasizes the delicacy and potential difficulty in recognizing the issue.

an implicit complexity

Focuses on the unstated, yet intricate, nature of the issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "a hidden issue" to describe a problem or concern that is not immediately obvious or visible. For example, "The investigation revealed "a hidden issue" affecting employee morale."

What are some alternatives to "a hidden issue"?

Alternatives to "a hidden issue" include phrases like "an underlying problem", "an unacknowledged problem", or "a veiled concern", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "hidden issue" or "underlying issue"?

Both "hidden issue" and "underlying issue" are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Hidden issue" suggests something is not easily seen, while "underlying issue" suggests a fundamental cause.

What does it mean when someone refers to "a hidden issue"?

When someone refers to "a hidden issue", they typically mean there is a problem or challenge that is not immediately apparent or easily recognized. It implies that further investigation or attention is needed to uncover the full scope of the situation.