an unsettled issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unsettled issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a topic or matter that has not been resolved or is still open to debate. Example: "The debate over climate change policies remains an unsettled issue among lawmakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Chief Justice Moore's lawyer, Mathew Staver, argued that the conflicting state and federal orders had thus remained an unsettled issue — indeed, that it is still unsettled since the State Supreme Court has never dismissed the old orders.

The New York Times

But others say this has yet to be accomplished -- among them Dr. Strominger, who added, "It remains an unsettled issue".

The New York Times - Science

Miramax Books will be managed over the next two years by publishing executives representing both the Walt Disney Company and the Weinstein brothers, the companies said yesterday, resolving an unsettled issue in the split of Harvey and Bob Weinstein from Disney.

The New York Times

Such a transition has been attracting a great deal of interest and remains an unsettled issue.

Nanoscale Research Letters

What constitutes a proper fundamental structure for such a series of studies is an unsettled issue.

Advances in Computers

Whether such "incidental findings" should be returned to patients remains "an unsettled issue," the report says.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Consider couples' counseling to make sure that you resolve any unsettled issues that your spouse-to-be may have before you commit to marrying this potential new mate.

WikiHow

Adolescence is, of course, an unsettled subject.

The Guardian - Books

An important unsettled issue is how long treatment should be continued after the first year of prophylaxis with OBT-A.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

A major and unsettled issue in the worldwide emergence of CA-MRSA is the source of such isolates in the community.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Nowadays, achieving a uniform dispersion of rod-like molecules (like carbon nanotube) in a polymer matrix is still a complicated and unsettled issue in polymer physics and chemical physics.

Polymer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an unsettled issue", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the issue unsettled. Providing specific reasons or related details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "an unsettled issue" as a vague placeholder. Instead, be specific about the nature of the uncertainty or disagreement surrounding the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unsettled issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific topic or matter that lacks resolution or consensus. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an unsettled issue" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that denotes a topic or matter lacking a definitive resolution. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English. Commonly found in science and news contexts, it conveys a sense of ongoing debate or uncertainty. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the context provides enough information to understand the specific nature of the issue. Alternative phrases include "an unresolved matter" or "an open question", offering nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unresolved matter

Emphasizes the lack of resolution on a specific point.

a pending question

Suggests the issue is awaiting a decision or resolution.

an open question

Highlights the absence of a definitive answer.

an outstanding problem

Focuses on the problematic nature and lack of solution.

a debatable point

Suggests the issue is subject to argument and differing opinions.

an uncertain area

Highlights the lack of clarity and predictability.

a contentious topic

Indicates a high level of disagreement and potential conflict.

a gray area

Indicates ambiguity and a lack of clear-cut rules.

a moot point

Implies the issue is no longer relevant or practical.

a fluid situation

Emphasizes the changing and unpredictable nature of the issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "an unsettled issue" to refer to a topic or matter that hasn't been completely resolved. For example: "The long-term effects of the policy remain "an unsettled issue" among researchers."

What are some alternatives to "an unsettled issue"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "an unresolved matter", "an open question", or "a debatable point", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "an unsettled issue"?

Yes, the phrase "an unsettled issue" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both formal and informal writing.

When is it appropriate to use "an unsettled issue" in writing?

It's appropriate when discussing a topic or situation that lacks a definitive conclusion or consensus. It is especially useful in academic, scientific, or journalistic contexts when describing ongoing debates or areas of uncertainty.