an issue of consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an issue of consequence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a matter that has significant importance or impact. Example: "The committee will address an issue of consequence during the next meeting, as it affects the entire community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

On the several occasions on which my work on the tax gap has been debated in parliament since the election, the Tory ministers who have responded have gone out of their way to make clear that they do not think this an issue of consequence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's also not just an issue of consequences for Israel if action is taken prematurely.

The Economist

"It's also not just an issue of consequences for Israel if action is taken prematurely," he said.

The New York Times

The questions are practical as well as ethical, issues of unintended consequences.

The New York Times - Science

This analysis is very simplistic and aims as much to raise the issue of consequences, for different groups in society, as to yield precise estimates of program effectiveness.

BMC Public Health

In February, the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a warning of the consequences of a breach in the dam.

The New Yorker

Gaughan said an unforeseen consequence of issuing control orders was the opportunity to rehabilitate people.

The Guardian

This issue is a mathematical consequence of a mother losing a child, because losing a child may reduce future under-5 deaths, and this is an example of reverse causality.

BMJ Open

As we've seen with the with the epidemic of negligence at Massey Energy here in the U.S., the systemic factors that drive workers into ever-riskier environments aren't merely a bureaucratic regulatory issue, but an endemic consequence of the frenzied pace of profit-making, which subordinates safety issues to productivity goals.

Huffington Post

It has also allowed the Schwarzenegger campaign to shift course on a number of issues, with little consequence.

The New York Times

The credit score issue is an unexpected consequence of the program that has been plagued with problems and disappointing results since its launch last year.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an issue of consequence", ensure the context clearly establishes why the issue is significant to the audience. For example, specify who is affected or what outcomes are influenced.

Common error

Avoid using "an issue of consequence" for minor or trivial matters. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility. Ensure the gravity of the situation genuinely warrants such emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an issue of consequence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a topic, situation, or decision point that carries substantial importance or significant ramifications. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an issue of consequence" is a grammatically sound phrase used to underscore the significance of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in English. It appears most frequently in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts, marking it as suitable for formal communication. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context genuinely supports its use and avoid overstating the importance of minor issues. Alternatives such as "a significant matter" or "a critical concern" can provide similar emphasis while varying your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of importance

Directly states the importance, making it a straightforward substitute.

a critical concern

Highlights the urgency and potential danger associated with the concern.

a significant matter

Focuses on the importance of the matter, using 'significant' to highlight its relevance.

a pressing matter

Indicates the urgency and need for immediate attention to the matter.

a crucial point

Emphasizes the decisiveness and importance of the point being made.

a weighty subject

Implies the subject carries significant importance and seriousness.

a substantial question

Highlights the considerable importance and complexity of the question.

a relevant consideration

Focuses on the applicability and pertinence of the consideration.

a notable problem

Indicates the problem is worth paying attention to due to its significance.

a prominent aspect

Emphasizes the visibility and importance of the aspect.

FAQs

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

You can use "an issue of consequence" to highlight the importance or significance of a particular matter. For example, "The committee will address "an issue of consequence" during the next meeting, as it affects the entire community."

What are some alternatives to "an issue of consequence"?

Alternatives include "a significant matter", "a matter of importance", or "a critical concern", depending on the specific context.

Is "an issue of consequence" formal or informal?

"An issue of consequence" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional, academic, or news-related contexts. It's less common in casual conversation.

What is the difference between "an issue of consequence" and "a minor problem"?

"An issue of consequence" refers to a matter with significant impact or importance, whereas "a minor problem" describes something trivial or easily resolved. The former carries much more weight.