a highly sensitive issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a highly sensitive issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics that require careful handling due to their emotional or controversial nature. Example: "The debate over climate change is a highly sensitive issue that affects many communities worldwide."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Comfort women remained a highly sensitive issue in Japan.

Britannica

Their living conditions are a highly sensitive issue.

The New York Times

Iranian-Egyptian relations have been strained for years and remain a highly sensitive issue.

The Guardian

The notion of stripping French nationality from dual citizens is a highly sensitive issue in France.

The Guardian

The format – and formality – of preliminary bilateral trade talks is a highly sensitive issue.

The Guardian

"This is a highly sensitive issue that we should handle it with care," Mr. Blair said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

David Cameron waded into this highly sensitive issue today when he used a speech to make clear that he fully endorses Britain's long-held view that Turkey should be allowed a seat, as he says, at the European top table.

The Guardian

Falconer spoke out after the Church of England called for the highly sensitive issue of assisted dying to be referred to a royal commission.

The Guardian

UK support for the Saudi-led-coalition fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen is another highly sensitive issue, where government policy faces increasingly close scrutiny.

The Guardian

The government's silence was in part about allowing the current president, Bambang Susilo Yudhoyono, to save some face on the highly sensitive issue of maritime sovereignty.

The Guardian

Further documents in the cache that will be released over coming days will also reveal: The scale of confidential concessions offered by Palestinian negotiators, including on the highly sensitive issue of the right of return of Palestinian refugees.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing "a highly sensitive issue", prioritize respectful and objective language to avoid alienating your audience. Provide context and avoid generalizations.

Common error

Avoid stating opinions as facts when discussing "a highly sensitive issue". Always provide context and be aware of different perspectives to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a highly sensitive issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI states, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a highly sensitive issue" is a commonly used phrase that denotes a topic needing careful consideration due to potential emotional or controversial implications. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, its usage signals a need for respectful and objective communication. While various alternatives exist, such as ""a delicate matter"" or ""a contentious topic"", the original phrase remains a straightforward and effective way to identify subjects that require sensitivity. Remember to provide context and avoid generalizations when addressing such issues to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate matter

Focuses more on the need for careful handling and tact.

a touchy subject

Implies potential for emotional reactions or offense.

a contentious topic

Highlights the likelihood of disagreement and debate.

a problematic area

Suggests the issue poses challenges or difficulties.

a controversial point

Emphasizes the divisiveness and conflicting opinions surrounding the issue.

a difficult question

Focuses on the complexity and challenge in finding a resolution.

a fraught subject

Implies the issue is filled with tension and anxiety.

a sensitive area of concern

Highlights the worry and unease associated with the subject.

a thorny issue

Suggests the issue is complex and difficult to resolve.

a challenging debate

Focuses on the difficulty and complexity of the discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "a highly sensitive issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a highly sensitive issue" to describe a topic that needs to be handled with care and awareness. For instance, "The topic of immigration is "a highly sensitive issue" in many countries".

What are some alternatives to saying "a highly sensitive issue"?

Alternatives include "a delicate matter", "a touchy subject", or "a contentious topic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a highly sensitive issue"?

It's appropriate when the topic at hand involves potential emotional distress, ethical considerations, or could easily lead to conflict or offense. It signals the need for careful handling.

What's the difference between "a highly sensitive issue" and "a controversial issue"?

"A highly sensitive issue" implies the potential for emotional or ethical complications, while "a controversial issue" primarily highlights strong disagreement and differing opinions. The former suggests the need for empathy and tact, while the latter emphasizes debate.