a protracted issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a protracted issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or situation that has been ongoing for a long time and is not easily resolved. Example: "The negotiations have turned into a protracted issue, causing delays in the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I think people are underestimating the potential it has to turn into a protracted issue," said Henry Lee, a director at Hendale Asset Management here.

The New York Times

This is a protracted issue, it's very complex and even when we say we've started the cleanup, there are a number of pre-activities that have to take place; the launch then takes place, and then we get on with the post-activities.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But a protracted fight over the issue in Congress will give Mr. Obama and the Democrats another opportunity to accuse the Republicans of conducting a "war on women".

The New York Times

But the argument over patenting and paying royalties for those resources, among other issues, has fueled a protracted fight.

The New York Times

As expensive as a settlement could be for the big banks, industry lobbyists in Washington privately say that they are eager to put the issue behind them, especially given the public relations fallout from a protracted fight with the government.

The New York Times

A protracted silence.

The New York Times - Magazine

What followed was a protracted negotiation.

The New York Times - Health

A protracted three-way bidding war ensued.

The New York Times - Arts

He is a loud agitation in a protracted dead calm.

The New York Times - Books

Instead, a protracted trench war is likely to lie ahead.

The Economist

Spaniards have not only been living under a protracted recession.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a protracted issue", consider the audience and context. In formal settings, it conveys a serious and complex problem that requires careful handling. In less formal contexts, be mindful of the potentially negative connotations of prolonged difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "a protracted issue" to describe simple, everyday problems. It is more appropriate for situations involving significant complexity, time, and resources.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a protracted issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "protracted" is an adjective modifying the noun "issue". It typically serves to identify and categorize a specific problem or situation that is characterized by its extended duration and complexity. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a protracted issue" is a noun phrase used to describe a problem or situation that has been ongoing for a considerable amount of time, often marked by complexity and difficulty in resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While more common in news and media contexts, it also finds application in scientific and formal business settings. When considering this phrase, be mindful of its formal tone and reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant the emphasis on prolonged duration and complexity. Alternatives such as "a lengthy matter" or "a prolonged problem" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lengthy matter

Focuses on the duration of the issue, highlighting its extended timeframe.

a prolonged problem

Emphasizes the extended nature of the problem, similar to the original phrase.

an extended conflict

Highlights the drawn-out nature of a conflict or dispute.

a drawn-out affair

Implies a process or situation that takes longer than expected.

a lingering challenge

Suggests a problem that persists and is difficult to resolve.

a chronic difficulty

Indicates a persistent and recurring problem.

a persistent struggle

Highlights the continuous effort required to deal with a problem.

a long-term dispute

Focuses on the duration and confrontational nature of the issue.

an ongoing saga

Suggests a complex and evolving situation that unfolds over time.

a continuing predicament

Emphasizes the state of difficulty or danger that persists over time.

FAQs

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

You can use "a protracted issue" to describe a problem or situation that has been ongoing for a long time and is difficult to resolve. For example, "The negotiations have become "a protracted issue", causing delays in the project timeline."

What are some alternatives to "a protracted issue"?

Alternatives include "a lengthy matter", "a prolonged problem", or "an extended conflict" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a protracted issue"?

It's appropriate when describing problems or situations that are complex, have been ongoing for a significant amount of time, and are not easily resolved. Avoid using it for minor or short-term difficulties.

What's the difference between "a protracted issue" and "a simple problem"?

"A protracted issue" suggests a long-lasting and complex situation, whereas "a simple problem" implies a straightforward and easily resolvable matter. The former often requires more extensive resources and time to address.