be a sensitive issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a sensitive issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics that may provoke strong emotions or reactions, often due to their personal or controversial nature. Example: "The topic of mental health can often be a sensitive issue for many individuals, requiring careful handling in conversations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

They think it might be a sensitive issue.

The Guardian

IHS Markit analyst Jeremy Carlson said data sharing could be a sensitive issue.

The Guardian - Tech

Eminent domain can be a sensitive issue in many countries, of course.

The New York Times

The creation of an EU blacklist of tax havens could be a sensitive issue for the British government.

The Guardian - Business

Being grouped in this way can be a sensitive issue with people who have often had to fight being trapped by unwelcome stereotypes.

The Guardian - Books

About one-fourth of Slovenians did not specify their religion in the country's 2002 census; many considered religion to be a sensitive issue.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Migrant labour is a sensitive issue.

The Economist

It's a sensitive issue.

The Guardian

"It is a sensitive issue in South Africa.

The Guardian - Sport

"Corruption is a sensitive issue," acknowledges Henry.

The Guardian

Hamas is a sensitive issue in Syria.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before using the phrase "be a sensitive issue", evaluate if a more direct or specific term might be more appropriate and informative. Instead of using a generic term, consider referring to the specific challenge or dynamic that makes a topic challenging.

Common error

Avoid using "be a sensitive issue" as a substitute for genuine empathy or thoughtful discussion. Using the phrase without engaging with the underlying concerns can come across as dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a sensitive issue" functions primarily as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a descriptive noun phrase that identifies it as a topic requiring careful consideration. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a sensitive issue" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to highlight topics that require careful handling due to their potential for causing emotional or controversial reactions. While it appears across various contexts, it is most prevalent in news and media, as well as scientific discussions. When using this phrase, it's essential to consider your audience and purpose, ensuring that you approach the subject with empathy and awareness. Alternatives such as "be a delicate matter" or "be a contentious topic" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a delicate matter

Focuses on the need for careful handling and tact.

be a touchy subject

Indicates that the topic might cause discomfort or offense.

be a contentious topic

Highlights the potential for disagreement or debate.

be a politically charged issue

Highlights the political implications and potential for controversy.

be a thorny problem

Emphasizes the difficulty and complexity of the issue.

be a difficult area

Suggests that the topic is challenging to navigate or resolve.

be a tricky situation

Focuses on the complexity and potential pitfalls of the situation.

be a problematic question

Highlights the potential for negative consequences or disputes.

be an uncomfortable truth

Suggests the issue is factual but unpleasant to acknowledge.

be a complex challenge

Emphasizes the multifaceted nature of the issue and the effort required to address it.

FAQs

How can I use "be a sensitive issue" in a sentence?

You can use "be a sensitive issue" to describe topics that require careful handling due to their potential to cause strong emotions or disagreement. For example, "The discussion about salary negotiations can "be a sensitive issue" during performance reviews".

What are some alternatives to "be a sensitive issue"?

Alternatives include "be a delicate matter", "be a contentious topic", or "be a thorny problem", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "be a sensitive issue"?

While generally acceptable, using "be a sensitive issue" might be inappropriate if it's used to dismiss valid concerns or avoid meaningful engagement with the topic. Always consider the context and audience.

What makes a topic "be a sensitive issue"?

A topic might "be a sensitive issue" due to its potential to evoke strong emotions, personal experiences, or conflicting beliefs. These topics often require thoughtful communication and empathy.