an issue comes up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an issue comes up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a problem or concern that arises unexpectedly during a discussion or situation. Example: "If an issue comes up during the meeting, we will address it immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Therefore, an issue comes up to determine the different traffic engineering parameters which are appropriate to local urban transport system characteristics.

IATSS Research

"You're so close and then to the extent an issue comes up, you're disappointed," he said, explaining the tense scene in the hallways.

The New York Times

Please be aware that moderators may contact you by email in relation to your participation, especially where an issue comes up in relation to these community standards.

The Guardian

Members need to gain a sense that if an issue comes up, you will provide impartial advice and then implement the decisions that are taken".

The Guardian

DR. SHUART The folks down at J.S.C. [Johnson Space Center], I'm sure, will call whoever they feel like they need whenever an issue comes up and they want to discuss things.

The New York Times

"The folks at J.S.C., I'm sure, will call whoever they feel like they need whenever an issue comes up and they want to discuss things," Dr. Shuart said of the Johnson center.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Both Ukip and the Tories cite immigration as an issue coming up on the doorsteps.

The Guardian

For a year in the divorce, every time an issue came up, that was part of it.

The New York Times

Gang rape is an issue coming up more in conversations with police, and we are aware of girls getting involved in gang activities.

The Guardian

The second thing that happened was an issue came up that really made it impossible to carry on a normal civil life in the United States, and that was the Vietnam War.

University of California, Berkeley

I gave him that right with Tennessee after the regular season was over and then he had an issue come up immediately after the regular season, so I withdrew that.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an issue comes up", ensure it's followed by a clear explanation of the issue at hand. This provides context and prevents ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "an issue comes up" without specifying what the issue is. For example, instead of saying "An issue comes up, and we need to address it", be specific: "An issue regarding budget allocation comes up, and we need to address it immediately".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an issue comes up" functions as an introductory phrase, often used to signal the introduction of a problem, concern, or matter that requires attention. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used, indicating its established presence in the English language.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an issue comes up" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for introducing a problem or concern. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "a problem arises" or "a difficulty emerges" exist, "an issue comes up" offers a straightforward way to signal that a matter requires attention. When using this phrase, be sure to clearly specify the issue to avoid vagueness. Overall, it's a reliable and versatile phrase for everyday and professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a problem arises

Replaces "issue" with "problem" and uses the verb "arises" instead of "comes up".

a difficulty emerges

Substitutes "issue" with "difficulty" and employs "emerges" to convey a similar meaning.

a matter surfaces

Replaces "issue" with "matter" and uses the verb "surfaces" instead of "comes up".

a question arises

Substitutes "issue" with "question", focusing on inquiries or points needing resolution.

a concern emerges

Replaces "issue" with "concern", highlighting potential worries or anxieties.

a snag develops

Uses "snag" to suggest a minor problem or obstacle, changing the tone slightly.

a hitch occurs

Similar to "snag", "hitch" indicates a temporary impediment or difficulty.

a complication arises

Replaces "issue" with "complication", implying a more intricate or complex problem.

a challenge presents itself

Uses a more formal tone, framing the issue as a "challenge" that needs to be addressed.

a situation develops

Focuses on the unfolding of events leading to a problematic circumstance.

FAQs

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

You can use "an issue comes up" to introduce a problem or matter that needs to be addressed. For example, "If "an issue comes up" during the project, we will convene a meeting to resolve it".

What are some alternatives to saying "an issue comes up"?

Alternatives include "a problem arises", "a difficulty emerges", or "a matter surfaces". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "an issue comes up"?

Yes, ""an issue comes up"" is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts.

What's the difference between "an issue comes up" and "an issue arises"?

While both phrases are similar, "an issue arises" might be considered slightly more formal. "An issue comes up" is generally more common in everyday language, but both are acceptable.