a pressing question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pressing question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an urgent or important issue that needs to be addressed or considered. Example: "In today's meeting, we must address a pressing question regarding our budget allocation for the next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a pressing question, because the Senate is on track to vote on a repeal bill by week's end, and the focus of GOP leaders has shifted.

HuffPost

The optimal timing of vascular access referral for patients with chronic kidney disease who may need hemodialysis (HD) is a pressing question in nephrology.

American Journal of Kidney Diseases

That has been a pressing question among cardiovascular researchers.

Harvard University

A pressing question is: How long can that trend continue?

Princeton University

What will happen to the people poised to fall through it is a pressing question.

The New Yorker

Yet the event left Mr. Ye with a pressing question, he said.

The New York Times

This could be a pressing question, even if you live in, say, Des Moines.

The New York Times

He had a pressing question for Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to President Obama.

The New York Times

Scholars and writers tackle a pressing question at an MIT forum.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A pressing question for the NPS is how these changes will go down with the public.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And with Boehner's retirement expected as soon as the next year or two, it is a pressing question.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pressing question" to introduce a problem or issue that requires immediate attention or a prompt resolution. It adds a sense of urgency and importance to the topic.

Common error

While "a pressing question" is suitable for formal writing and discussions, avoid overusing it in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "an important question" or "a key issue" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pressing question" functions as an introductory element to highlight an issue demanding immediate consideration. As shown by Ludwig, it's commonly used to frame significant challenges or problems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Academia

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pressing question" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce issues requiring immediate attention. As indicated by Ludwig, it's frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, signaling urgency and importance. To enhance your writing, use this phrase to emphasize the critical nature of a problem. While versatile, it's best suited for formal contexts. For informal situations, consider using simpler alternatives. Remember, while "a pressing question" is widely accepted and valuable, its effectiveness lies in its appropriate application to underscore significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical concern

Highlights the importance and potential impact of the issue.

a central question

Indicates that the question is at the heart of the matter.

an urgent inquiry

Focuses on the immediacy and need for a response.

a crucial point

Emphasizes the decisiveness and significance of the matter.

a burning issue

Emphasizes the intensity and urgency of the problem.

a key problem

Highlights that the question is central to a larger problem.

a foremost challenge

Highlights the difficulty and importance of the issue to be solved.

a vital consideration

Stresses the necessity of taking the matter into account.

a significant matter

Underlines the importance and weight of the topic.

an important issue

A more general way to express the importance of a topic.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pressing question" to introduce an issue that needs immediate attention. For example: "A pressing question is how we will allocate resources for the upcoming project."

What are some alternatives to "a pressing question"?

You can use alternatives such as "an urgent inquiry", "a critical concern", or "a burning issue" depending on the specific context.

Is "a pressing question" appropriate for all types of writing?

"A pressing question" is generally suitable for formal and professional writing. In more informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "an important question" or "a key issue" may be more appropriate.

What makes a question "pressing"?

A "pressing" question is one that requires immediate attention and resolution due to its importance and potential impact. It often involves urgency and significant consequences.