an issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a problem, concern, or topic that needs to be addressed or discussed. Example: "The team is currently facing an issue with the project timeline that needs immediate attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's an issue.

The New York Times

Prices remain an issue.

The New York Times

"Funding is an issue.

Independent

Repetition isn't an issue.

The Guardian

"It's always an issue.

The New York Times - Sports

"That is an issue".

The New York Times

Is poverty an issue?

Independent

Cost remains an issue.

The New York Times - Sports

That's not an issue".

The New Yorker

"It's clearly an issue".

The New York Times - Tech

Length is an issue.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an issue", be specific about what the issue is. Vague references can confuse your audience. For example, instead of saying "there is an issue", specify "the main issue is the budget constraints".

Common error

Avoid using "an issue" as a generic substitute for more precise terms. While grammatically correct, overuse can weaken your writing. Consider whether a more specific word like "problem", "challenge", or "concern" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a problem, concern, or topic under consideration. For example, "Cost remains an issue" or "It's clearly an issue".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an issue" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a problem, concern, or topic requiring attention. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely applicable and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business communications. While versatile, it's important to use "an issue" with specificity and avoid overuse, considering more precise alternatives when appropriate. Remember to use "an" before "issue" due to the vowel sound. The phrase is frequently found in reputable sources like The New York Times and the BBC, confirming its widespread acceptance and appropriate use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a problem

Replaces "issue" with a more general term for a difficulty.

a concern

Emphasizes the worrying aspect of the problem.

a matter of concern

Formal way of saying something is worrying.

a difficulty

Highlights the struggle or effort needed to resolve something.

a challenge

Suggests something that requires effort and skill to overcome.

a complication

Implies something that makes a situation more complex.

an obstacle

Suggests something that blocks progress.

a hitch

Implies a temporary problem or delay.

a snag

Similar to 'hitch', suggests a small, unexpected problem.

a setback

Implies a reversal in progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "an issue" to refer to a problem, concern, or topic being discussed. For example, "Funding is "an issue" for the project" or "There's "an issue" with the software".

What can I say instead of "an issue"?

Alternatives include "a problem", "a concern", "a difficulty", or "a challenge", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "an issue" or "a issue"?

"An issue" is the correct form. The indefinite article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "an issue" and "a topic"?

"An issue" generally implies a problem or matter of concern that needs addressing, while "a topic" refers to a subject of discussion or interest without necessarily implying a problem. For example, "Climate change is "an issue"", versus "Climate change is "a topic" of debate".