a pressing concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pressing concern" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a problem or issue that is urgent or important. Example: Climate change has become a pressing concern for many governments around the world, as its effects are being felt more and more every day.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Time was a pressing concern.

The Guardian

However, when they settled down, I had a pressing concern.

The New York Times

(Security is a pressing concern in the settlements).

The New York Times

Instead, the issue of workers' rights became a pressing concern.

The New York Times - Sports

An interesting curiosity, but hardly a pressing concern.

The Guardian - Books

Rising debt of another kind is a pressing concern for many investors.

The New York Times

With virtually no money coming in, finding work has become a pressing concern.

The New York Times

Getting such evidence is a pressing concern for the Bush Administration.

The New Yorker

Still, the fund warned that rising unemployment in Portugal "has emerged as a pressing concern".

The New York Times

But "Will he blow his arm out?" is now a pressing concern.

The New York Times - Sports

"I had no reason to believe that his conduct was a pressing concern," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pressing concern" to clearly and directly indicate an issue demanding immediate attention or action. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but consider the audience when choosing alternatives.

Common error

Avoid using "a pressing concern" for minor or trivial issues. Overusing this phrase can diminish its impact when addressing genuinely urgent matters. Reserve it for situations with significant implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pressing concern" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies an issue or problem that demands immediate attention. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pressing concern" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that effectively conveys urgency and importance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. Alternatives such as "urgent issue" or "critical matter" can provide variety, but should be chosen carefully to match the intended tone. By avoiding overuse in trivial situations, writers can preserve the phrase's impact. Thus, "a pressing concern" remains a valuable tool for highlighting issues that demand immediate attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Serious problem

Highlights the gravity and potential impact of the concern.

Critical matter

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences.

Urgent issue

Focuses on the immediacy of the problem.

Significant worry

Highlights the degree of anxiety associated with the issue.

High priority

Indicates that the concern requires immediate attention and resources.

Vital consideration

Stresses the crucial importance of the factor to be taken into account.

Acute challenge

Highlights the severity and urgency of the difficulty.

Burning question

Suggests a topic that demands immediate resolution or discussion.

Imperative need

Focuses on the essential requirement for action or attention.

Exigent circumstance

Emphasizes the demanding and critical nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a pressing concern" in a sentence?

You can use "a pressing concern" to highlight issues demanding immediate attention. For example, "Climate change is "a pressing concern" for many scientists."

What are some alternatives to "a pressing concern"?

You can use alternatives like "urgent issue", "critical matter", or "serious problem" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "a pressing concern"?

It's appropriate when addressing issues that require immediate attention and have significant consequences. Avoid using it for trivial matters to maintain its impact.

Is "a pressing concern" formal or informal?

"A pressing concern" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for various types of communication. Consider the audience when choosing alternatives to ensure the appropriate tone.