a live issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a live issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a topic or problem that is currently relevant and being actively discussed or debated. Example: "The debate over climate change remains a live issue in political discussions around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Silva concedes this remains a live issue.

The Guardian - Tech

But human rights remain a live issue throughout South America.

The Economist

Media analyst Claire Enders says: "It is a live issue.

The Guardian

Photographic truthfulness is still a live issue for many artists.

The New York Times - Arts

For different reasons, history is still a live issue in these countries.

The Economist

This is a live issue for the left, and for the young opposition leader.

The Economist

But in some cities, the Planned Parenthood episode still remains a live issue.

The New York Times

but also gay marriage, which I don't recall being a live issue thirty years ago.

The New Yorker

The history of Mr Livingstone's stewardship of the Greater London Council is now a live issue.

The Guardian

Immigration and border security remains a live issue in the Republican primary.

The Guardian

On top of which, our electoral system must surely return as a live issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using this phrase. While generally appropriate, in highly formal or technical writing, more precise or specific terminology may be preferred.

Common error

Avoid using "a live issue" to describe something that was once relevant but is no longer actively discussed or considered important. It's best reserved for current, ongoing matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a live issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. It identifies a topic or problem that is current, relevant, and under active consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a live issue" is a common phrase used to describe a topic or problem that is currently relevant and actively being discussed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's most frequently encountered in news and media contexts but also appears in scientific and formal business settings. While alternatives like "a current concern" or "a pressing matter" exist, "a live issue" effectively conveys the sense of ongoing debate and relevance. When using the expression, ensure that the issue is indeed current and not simply a matter of historical interest.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a current concern

Focuses on the present relevance and worry associated with the topic.

a pressing matter

Highlights the urgency and importance of the issue.

a relevant topic

Emphasizes the pertinence and applicability of the subject.

an ongoing debate

Stresses the continuous discussion and differing opinions surrounding the issue.

a hot-button issue

Indicates the controversial and highly sensitive nature of the topic.

a burning question

Implies a strong desire for resolution and widespread interest.

a contentious point

Highlights the disagreement and potential conflict surrounding the issue.

an open question

Suggests that the issue is unresolved and still under consideration.

a developing situation

Emphasizes the evolving and dynamic nature of the problem.

a matter of public interest

Highlights that the issue is important and relevant to the general public.

FAQs

What does "a live issue" mean?

The phrase "a live issue" refers to a topic or problem that is currently relevant, important, and actively being discussed or debated.

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

You can use alternatives like "a current concern", "a pressing matter", or "a relevant topic" depending on the context.

Is "a live issue" formal or informal?

"A live issue" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal language may be preferable in certain professional or academic settings.

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

You can use "a live issue" to describe a situation or topic, for example: "Climate change remains "a live issue" in international politics."