a precarious issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precarious issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or topic that is unstable, uncertain, or risky, often requiring careful handling. Example: "The debate surrounding climate change is a precarious issue that demands thoughtful discussion and action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Copulation can be a precarious issue for male tortoises, because they must balance themselves on the high-domed shell of females to fertilize them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In an interview with The Washington Post last week, Trump drew attention to Cruz's birthplace and suggested it could be a "very precarious" issue for Republicans.

Huffington Post

Republicans find themselves in a precarious position on the issue.

The New York Times

"The administration is at a precarious point on this issue," Mr. Rivkin said.

The New York Times

But he also foreshadowed The Great Depression and knew that the decadence of the Roaring 20s would not last and was more of a distraction to draw people's attention away from the issues at hand; a precarious economy, civil unrest and the fragility of world peace.

Vice

It is the first comment from a senior national leader on the issue, and shows Mr Bo is in a precarious position.

BBC

It is a precarious existence.

The Economist

Life is a precarious balance.

The New York Times

You had a precarious childhood.

The New York Times - Magazine

Fame is a precarious thing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They have to maintain a precarious balance.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a precarious issue", consider the specific risk or instability involved and tailor your language to reflect that nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "a precarious issue" when the situation is merely inconvenient or mildly challenging; reserve it for situations with genuine potential for significant negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precarious issue" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "precarious" modifies the noun "issue". It typically describes a situation or topic that is unstable, uncertain, or risky. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precarious issue" describes a topic or situation characterized by instability and risk. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase is relatively rare, it is appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, consider the specific nuances of the situation and ensure your language accurately reflects the level of concern. Alternatives like "a sensitive matter" or "a delicate situation" may be more suitable depending on the specific context you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive matter

Emphasizes the need for careful handling due to potential offense or controversy.

a delicate situation

Highlights the fragility and potential for negative outcomes.

a risky proposition

Focuses on the potential for loss or failure.

a thorny problem

Implies complexity and difficulty in resolution.

a tricky situation

Suggests the need for careful maneuvering and problem-solving.

an unstable situation

Highlights the lack of security and potential for sudden change.

an uncertain matter

Focuses on the unpredictable nature of the situation.

a volatile topic

Implies the potential for sudden and dramatic reactions.

a controversial subject

Highlights the potential for disagreement and conflict.

a touchy subject

Similar to 'a sensitive matter', emphasizing the need for caution.

FAQs

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

You can use "a precarious issue" to describe a situation that is unstable or risky. For example, "The political climate is currently a precarious issue, requiring careful diplomacy."

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

You can use alternatives like "a sensitive matter", "a delicate situation", or "a risky proposition" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a precarious issue" or "a precarious situation"?

Both "a precarious issue" and "a precarious situation" are grammatically correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Issue" typically refers to a topic or point of discussion, while "situation" refers to a set of circumstances.

What makes an issue "precarious"?

An issue is "precarious" when it is subject to instability, uncertainty, or risk of negative outcomes. This often implies that the issue requires careful handling and attention to avoid potential problems.