an issue about

USAGE SUMMARY

"an issue about" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are discussing a problem or complication pertaining to a particular topic. Example: We must address the issue about low voter turnout in this district.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"There's an issue about the science.

The Guardian

"This is an issue about trade barriers".

The New York Times

There wouldn't be an issue about it.

The Guardian - Sport

"This isn't just an issue about football," Udall said.

The New York Times - Sports

"There was never an issue about space for the singer.

The New York Times

It's an issue about how we pay for higher education".

The Guardian - Film

This was an issue about which he and Vaux disagreed.

The New York Times - Arts

So there is an issue about the motive".

The Guardian

"This is an issue about numbers and doctors.

The Guardian - Sport

But this is not just an issue about News International.

The Guardian

"There was an issue about media concentration of ownership.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an issue about", ensure the context clearly defines the topic or problem being addressed. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

While "an issue about" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a problem with" or "something about" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an issue about" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a topic, problem, or matter of concern. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It typically precedes a more detailed explanation or discussion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an issue about" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces a topic or problem, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is most commonly found in News & Media sources. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and choose the most appropriate phrasing for clarity and tone. For instance, "a problem concerning" may be more suitable in formal settings, whereas "an issue with" could be better when referring to a specific difficulty. Ludwig examples provide ample illustrations of its usage across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a problem concerning

Replaces "issue" with "problem" and uses "concerning" instead of "about", indicating a matter of concern.

a question regarding

Substitutes "issue" with "question" and "about" with "regarding", framing it as a matter needing clarification.

a matter pertaining to

Replaces "issue" with "matter" and "about" with "pertaining to", suggesting a more formal and specific connection.

a point concerning

Uses "point" instead of "issue" and "concerning" in place of "about", highlighting a specific aspect or detail.

a subject relating to

Replaces "issue" with "subject" and "about" with "relating to", indicating a topic under discussion.

a challenge surrounding

Substitutes "issue" with "challenge" and "about" with "surrounding", framing it as a difficulty or obstacle.

a debate over

Replaces "issue about" with "debate over", highlighting a disagreement or controversy.

a conflict regarding

Substitutes "issue" with "conflict" and "about" with "regarding", suggesting a disagreement or clash of opinions.

a complication involving

Replaces "issue" with "complication" and "about" with "involving", highlighting a difficulty or complexity.

a predicament concerning

Replaces "issue" with "predicament" and "about" with "concerning", suggesting a difficult or troublesome situation.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to using "an issue about" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "a problem concerning", "a question regarding", or "a matter pertaining to" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "an issue about"?

The phrase "an issue about" is generally considered neutral in formality. While suitable for news and media, more formal contexts might benefit from phrases like "a matter pertaining to".

Can I use "a issue about" instead of "an issue about"?

No, the correct form is "an issue about". The article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What is the difference between "an issue about" and "an issue with"?

While both phrases are similar, "an issue about" focuses on the subject or topic, whereas "an issue with" often refers to a specific problem or difficulty.