a touchy issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a touchy issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a topic that is sensitive or likely to provoke strong emotions or reactions. Example: "The discussion about climate change can often become a touchy issue among different groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Fishing, it seems, is a touchy issue.

The New York Times

But this is a touchy issue.

The Economist

It's not a touchy issue.

The New York Times

Affirmative action is a touchy issue.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Some guys say it's a touchy issue.

The New York Times

Trade has been a touchy issue in the Democratic campaign.

The New York Times

Hannity became a touchy issue in the late spring.

The New York Times - Magazine

The general raised a touchy issue: whether to buy generators to supply electricity to Kandahar.

The New York Times

That is a touchy issue, and not just for environmental reasons.

The New York Times

"I know talent is a touchy issue; it's sensitive," he told the luncheon crowd.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Even before Enron, the high priests of accounting were mulling a very touchy issue: When should a company be allowed to keep certain assets off its books?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a touchy issue", consider your audience and the potential emotional impact of the topic. Frame your discussion with empathy and respect for differing viewpoints.

Common error

Avoid reducing "a touchy issue" to simplistic explanations or generalizations. Acknowledge the nuances and complexities inherent in sensitive topics to foster a more informed and respectful conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a touchy issue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific topic or situation characterized by its sensitivity and potential for causing disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its consistent usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Academia

7%

Science & Research

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a touchy issue" is a frequently used and grammatically correct way to describe a sensitive or potentially controversial topic. Ludwig AI confirms this. It appears most commonly in news and media, signaling the need for careful and empathetic discussion. While alternatives like ""a sensitive matter"" or ""a controversial topic"" exist, "a touchy issue" effectively conveys the need for tact and understanding when addressing complex or emotionally charged subjects. When using this phrase, remember to acknowledge nuances and avoid oversimplifications to promote informed conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive matter

Emphasizes the delicate nature of the topic requiring careful handling.

a delicate subject

Highlights the need for tact and caution when discussing the issue.

a controversial topic

Indicates that the issue is likely to provoke disagreement or debate.

a problematic area

Focuses on the difficulties and challenges associated with the issue.

a contentious point

Suggests that the issue is a source of argument or dispute.

a thorny question

Implies that the issue is complex and difficult to resolve.

a heated debate

Highlights the intensity and passion surrounding the discussion of the issue.

a difficult situation

Focuses on the challenging circumstances associated with the issue.

a delicate situation

Highlights the need for careful management in addressing the issue.

a sensitive area

Indicates a particular aspect that needs to be handled with discretion.

FAQs

What does "a touchy issue" mean?

The phrase "a touchy issue" refers to a subject that is sensitive, delicate, or likely to cause disagreement or offense. It often requires careful handling and consideration.

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

You can use "a touchy issue" to describe a topic that needs to be approached with care. For example, "Rebuilding is "a touchy issue"; homeowners whose houses were damaged by the storm do not, understandably, want to take on the additional stress of moving."

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

You can use alternatives like "a sensitive matter", "a delicate subject", or "a controversial topic" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a touchy issue" and "a sensitive subject"?

While both phrases refer to topics that require careful handling, "a touchy issue" emphasizes the potential for disagreement or offense, whereas "a sensitive subject" focuses more on the emotional impact or personal nature of the topic.