became a key issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "became a key issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a topic or concern that has gained significant importance or relevance in a particular context. Example: "As the debate progressed, climate change became a key issue that could not be ignored."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Gun control became a key issue in the Presidential election that year, and there has been no repeat incident.

The New Yorker

It was not long before firing a police commissioner became a key issue in the mayoral race.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the early 21st century, illegal immigration also became a key issue in Australia as an increasing number of foreigners sought asylum in the country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

More than 1,270 were arrested and 600 jailed as the dam project became a key issue in the 1983 general election.

The Guardian - Travel

In Ghana, the investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas and a team of reporters revealed a bribery scandal at the heart of the judiciary, while in Sri Lanka, corruption became a key issue in the presidential election last year.

The Guardian

Interference management became a key issue in the design of wireless systems.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Those types of deals have become a key issue early in the campaign for mayor.

The New York Times

4.35pm: In a disaster situation, coordination and logistics become a key issue.

The Guardian

This is likely to become a key issue today because the Institute for Fiscal Studies is publishing two studies later today.

The Guardian

It homed in on what would become a key issue – the refusal to allow an independent Scotland to continue using sterling.

The Guardian - Opinion

Children's mental health has become a key issue for campaigners in recent years, with concerns about cutbacks in adolescent mental health services.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "became a key issue" to clearly indicate when a topic or problem gained prominence or importance. It is useful for emphasizing a shift in focus or concern within a narrative or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "became a key issue" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "emerged as a central concern" or "assumed primary importance" to maintain a refined tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "became a key issue" functions as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and effectively communicates a shift in significance. For example, "Gun control became a key issue in the Presidential election that year."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "became a key issue" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a shift in importance or focus. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and versatility. While suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general discussions, more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or scientific writing. The phrase is frequently found in News & Media and Science sources, emphasizing its role in highlighting emerging concerns and priorities. When writing, it's essential to consider the audience and context, opting for more sophisticated vocabulary when a refined tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Became a focal point

Highlights how something shifted to become a central point of attention or activity.

Emerged as a central concern

Focuses on the idea of something rising to prominence as a worry or point of interest.

Transformed into a critical matter

Highlights the change in status to something of utmost importance.

Grew into a significant problem

Emphasizes the gradual development of an issue into something substantial.

Evolved into a major topic

Suggests a natural progression of a subject gaining importance.

Rose to the forefront

Indicates that something has moved to a position of high visibility and importance.

Assumed primary importance

Highlights the act of something taking on a leading role in terms of significance.

Developed into a priority

Suggests a transition towards being treated with more urgency and importance.

Gained considerable traction

Implies growing support or interest in an issue.

Turned into a pivotal question

Conveys that something has become a crucial point for decision-making.

FAQs

How can I use "became a key issue" in a sentence?

Use "became a key issue" to describe a situation where something has recently risen in importance. For example: "Gun control "became a key issue" in the Presidential election that year".

What are some alternatives to "became a key issue"?

Consider alternatives like "emerged as a central concern", "transformed into a critical matter", or "rose to the forefront" depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "became a key issue" in academic writing?

While acceptable, using "became a key issue" may sound less formal in academic writing. Alternatives like "assumed primary importance" or "developed into a priority" may be more suitable.

How does "became a key issue" differ from "was a key issue"?

"Became a key issue" indicates a change in status, suggesting something gained importance. "Was a key issue" implies something was already important at a specific point in time without necessarily highlighting a transition.