a leading issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a leading issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a prominent or significant topic that is currently being discussed or debated. Example: "Climate change has become a leading issue in global politics, prompting urgent discussions among world leaders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Shares of Gillette fell 62 cents, to $28 .[C4.] U.S. and China Make Trade Progress The United States and China have narrowed their differences over farm subsidies, a leading issue holding up Chinese entry into the World Trade Organization.

The New York Times

Yet her fate has become a seminal event in British politics, causing nationwide debates over the philosophy of the Labor government led by Prime Minister Tony Blair and reintroducing class as a leading issue.

The New York Times

A17 Canadian Health Care Anger Complaints about long lines for diagnosis and surgery, as well as "line-jumping" by the affluent and connected, are eroding public confidence in Canada's national health care system and producing a leading issue for next year's national elections.

The New York Times

If it remains unsolved, it could prove a leading issue at congressional elections next November.

The Economist

The abortive rebellions dramatized the need to reform Canada's outmoded and constrictive constitution, prompting the "Canadian question" to become a leading issue in British politics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Along with jobs and rampant violent crime, education was a leading issue in the election, largely because of a controversial and sweeping re-organization of the school district.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

(3) Interviewees described inventory transparency as another leading issue.

Business Research

Finally, the change in utilization and out of pocket expenses from 1995-96 to 2004 and the emergence of NCDs as a leading health issue in India suggests that the need for services will increase in the future.

Globalization and Health

He said he hoped that working against poverty would emerge as a leading moral issue.

The New York Times

As the situation has become more critical, parking has risen to the top of the political agenda here, with the project becoming a leading campaign issue.

The New York Times

Population in the region is expected to double by 2050, and the water supply, particularly in San Antonio, is a leading political issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a leading issue", ensure the context clearly establishes why the issue is considered 'leading'. Provide supporting information or data to reinforce its prominence.

Common error

Avoid using "a leading issue" when the topic's significance is not widely recognized or supported by evidence. Ensure it genuinely holds a prominent position in the relevant discussion.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a leading issue" is to act as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, highlighting its role in identifying significant topics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a leading issue" denotes a prominent and significant topic under current discussion. Grammatically sound and frequently used, as indicated by Ludwig AI, it's prevalent in News & Media and Science sources. Related phrases include "a key concern" and "a major topic". When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly supports its prominence and avoid overstating an issue's importance. The phrase serves to emphasize significance and influence, maintaining a neutral tone suitable for various audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key concern

Focuses on the aspect of worry or importance rather than prominence.

a major topic

Emphasizes the subject of discussion more than its importance.

a central theme

Highlights the core idea or subject that recurs throughout a discussion or work.

a primary focus

Stresses the element that receives the most attention or effort.

a top priority

Indicates something of utmost importance that needs immediate attention.

a dominant question

Highlights a question that is significant and frequently asked.

a prominent matter

Focuses on the importance and visibility of an issue.

a crucial point

Emphasizes the critical importance of a specific element.

a significant subject

Highlights the noteworthiness of the topic.

a pressing matter

Emphasizes the urgency and need for immediate attention.

FAQs

What does "a leading issue" mean?

The phrase "a leading issue" refers to a prominent or significant topic that is currently being widely discussed or debated.

What can I say instead of "a leading issue"?

You can use alternatives like "a key concern", "a major topic", or "a central theme" depending on the context.

How do I use "a leading issue" in a sentence?

Use "a leading issue" to highlight a topic that is at the forefront of discussion. For example: "Climate change has become "a leading issue" in global politics."

What's the difference between "a leading issue" and "a minor issue"?

"A leading issue" refers to a significant and prominent topic, while "a minor issue" indicates a less important or less discussed matter.