a topical issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a topical issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a subject or problem that is currently relevant or of interest in public discourse. Example: "Climate change is a topical issue that requires immediate attention from policymakers and the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Police officials in other cities said steroids was a topical issue.

The New York Times

This is a topical issue that we see at the most rarefied valley technology companies.

The New York Times

3. Research a topical issue in small groups; respond to guiding questions and deliver brief oral presentations.

The New York Times

This makes the issue of the quality of news and engaging current affairs and political programming a topical issue.

The Guardian

A topical issue, with David Cameron pledging this morning to make tax avoidance a key target of his G20 presidency.

The Guardian - Business

Of course, the industrial revolution was a topical issue for Charles Dickens and it is hard to find a better contemporary commentator.

The Guardian

We also have a quick poll that tackles a topical issue each week, but we're keen on further comments on why you think what you do.

The Guardian

I mean 20 years ago welfare just wasn't a topical issue, it was just something governments had to sort of organise.

The Economist

This many-tentacled conspiracy becomes a topical issue now that alleged Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin has thumped a man who claimed that his moon landing was actually filmed in the Nevada desert.

The Guardian

3. Explain to students that they will spend the remainder of the period working in small groups to examine firsthand how "names" or "tags" are used to frame or shape a public debate on a topical issue.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Read through his excellent interviews for a better look at a very topical issue.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing “a topical issue” in writing, provide context or background information to enhance clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid overuse of “a topical issue” in a single document. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "current concern" or "relevant subject" for better readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “a topical issue” functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a subject or problem that is currently relevant and of public interest, as demonstrated by the examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “a topical issue” is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a subject or problem that is currently relevant and of interest. According to Ludwig, it's frequently employed across diverse contexts, including science, news media, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, it's important to provide adequate context to ensure clarity. While the phrase is widely accepted, varying language and considering alternative expressions like "a current matter" or "a relevant subject" can enhance your writing. The Ludwig AI confirms the validity and utility of this phrase in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a current matter

This alternative replaces "topical" with "current" and "issue" with "matter", slightly changing the tone but maintaining the meaning.

a relevant subject

This alternative uses "relevant" instead of "topical" and "subject" instead of "issue", offering a more general phrasing.

a pressing concern

This phrase emphasizes the urgency of the issue, suggesting it requires immediate attention.

a contemporary theme

This alternative is suitable when the issue is more of a recurring idea or subject rather than a problem.

a timely question

This alternative replaces "issue" with "question", suggesting an inquiry that is relevant right now.

a key subject

This alternative suggests the topic is of great importance.

a noteworthy point

This alternative emphasizes the significance and prominence of the problem.

a significant theme

This alternative is fitting when the issue is a major recurring element or idea.

a debated topic

This highlights the fact that the issue is discussed or argued about.

a burning question

This alternative emphasizes the urgency and intensity surrounding a problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a topical issue" to introduce a subject or problem that is currently relevant or of public interest. For example, "Climate change is "a topical issue" that demands global attention".

What are some alternatives to "a topical issue"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a current matter", "a relevant subject", or "a pressing concern" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a topical issue" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "a topical issue" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic, business, or journalistic contexts. However, consider the specific audience and the level of formality required.

What makes an issue "topical"?

An issue is considered "topical" when it is currently relevant, frequently discussed, and of significant interest or concern to a particular audience or the general public.