a straightforward issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a straightforward issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or problem that is simple and easy to understand or resolve. Example: "The disagreement was actually a straightforward issue that could be resolved with a quick conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

It's a fair point but not a straightforward issue.

The Guardian

In some ways, this is a straightforward issue of the right to free speech.

The Economist

It can't be a straightforward issue of quality, or of good reviews.

The Guardian - Books

"We view this as a straightforward issue that should not create turmoil in the program," the statement said.

The New York Times

Like air pollution, congestion is not a straightforward issue, but efficiency-wise, cycle lanes are certainly a winner.

The Guardian

The conceptualisation of obesity as a straightforward issue of energy balance – calories in versus calories out – has been described by obesity expert Dr Harry Rutter as "seductively simple".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The competition committee, at the behest of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, is seeking a common-sense approach to what should be a relatively straightforward issue of whether a receiver makes a legal catch.

The Washington Post

[n6] This case, however, presents a single straightforward issue concerning the point during a jury trial when a defendant is deemed to have been put in jeopardy, for only if that point has once been [p33] reached does any subsequent prosecution of the defendant bring the guarantee against double jeopardy even potentially into play.

Cornell University

NJ, North Yorkshire This should have been a fairly straightforward issue for Dell to comment on, but the company took a month to respond.

The Guardian - Money

This is a relatively straightforward issue.

The New York Times

"It's a very straightforward issue".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a straightforward issue", ensure the context genuinely reflects simplicity and ease of understanding to avoid misleading your audience. If the issue is more nuanced, consider using alternative phrasing to reflect that complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "a straightforward issue" to describe situations that have underlying complexities or require careful consideration. This can lead to misrepresentation and poor decision-making.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a straightforward issue" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and categorize a particular subject or situation, presenting it as uncomplicated and easy to understand. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a straightforward issue" is a commonly used phrase that describes a situation or problem that is easy to understand and resolve. As validated by Ludwig, its grammatical structure is sound, and it appears most frequently in news and media, and science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the situation genuinely warrants such a description, and avoid oversimplifying potentially complex scenarios. Alternatives like "a simple matter" or "an uncomplicated problem" can also be considered depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a simple issue

Emphasizes ease of understanding and lack of complication.

an uncomplicated matter

Highlights the absence of complex elements or difficulties.

a clear-cut case

Focuses on the distinct and unambiguous nature of the situation.

an easy problem

Underscores the lack of difficulty in resolving the matter.

a plain issue

Suggests a lack of ornamentation or complexity, making it easy to see.

a basic question

Presents the issue as fundamental and not requiring advanced knowledge.

a manageable concern

Implies that the issue is within a reasonable scope and can be addressed without great difficulty.

a routine matter

Highlights the common and ordinary nature of the issue, suggesting it's handled regularly.

a trivial point

Downplays the significance of the issue, portraying it as minor and unimportant.

a self-explanatory situation

Emphasizes that the context and implications of the issue are immediately apparent.

FAQs

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

You can use "a straightforward issue" to describe a problem or situation that is easy to understand and resolve. For example, "The budget allocation was "a straightforward issue" once we clarified the priorities".

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

You can use alternatives like "a simple matter", "an uncomplicated problem", or "a clear-cut case" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "a straightforward issue"?

It's appropriate when the problem or situation lacks hidden complexities, requires minimal analysis, and has an easily identifiable solution. Ensure that this assessment is accurate to avoid misleading your audience.

What's the difference between "a straightforward issue" and "a complex problem"?

"A straightforward issue" implies simplicity and ease of resolution, while "a complex problem" suggests multiple factors, difficult analysis, and potentially challenging solutions.