became a sensitive issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "became a sensitive issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a topic that has evolved into a matter that elicits strong feelings or opinions, often leading to controversy or discomfort. Example: "The debate over climate change has become a sensitive issue in recent years, dividing public opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Co-optation as the antitrust investigation became a sensitive issue for member companies; they finally decided to disband IPOP.

Asian Journal of Sustainability and Social Responsibility

As a consequence of the disagreement between the Indonesian government and WHO regarding H5N1 biospecimen transfer in 2006, the international transfer of biomaterials became a sensitive issue relating to specimen ownership, property rights, benefit sharing and international research collaboration [ 42, 43].

Genome Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Rape and sexual assault has become a sensitive issue for Uber.

The Guardian - Tech

Several immigrants acknowledged interest in the case but were loath to comment on what has become a sensitive issue.

The New York Times

Still, in Japan the yen has become a sensitive issue as the currency fluctuates around a 15-year high.

The New York Times

A lot of companies worry that the burden of foreign travel on family life will become a sensitive issue at some stage.

The Economist

As losses from the spreading mortgage crisis mount on Wall Street, the question of whether chief executives should stay or go has become a sensitive issue for boards and the executives themselves.

The New York Times

Sovereign credit risk has become a sensitive issue for investors this week after Standard & Poor's cut its sovereign credit rating outlook of Spain and Fitch downgraded Greece's debt rating amid concerns about its fiscal health.

The Guardian - Business

Two weeks ago, that would not have been a question, but after the way Manager Joe Girardi handled Rodriguez in the last seven games of the season, it has become a sensitive issue.

The New York Times - Sports

Mutko's statements, however, seemed to undermine that claim, and might reflect conflicts among senior authorities over how to handle what has become a sensitive issue ahead of an event meant to highlight Russia's global stature.

The New York Times - Sports

And South Africa is not the only country where migration has become a sensitive issue.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "became a sensitive issue" when describing the evolution of a topic, rather than as a static descriptor. For instance, 'What was once a minor disagreement became a sensitive issue after the public outcry'.

Common error

Avoid using "became a sensitive issue" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "got awkward" or "became touchy" are often more appropriate and less formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "became a sensitive issue" functions as a predicate in a sentence, describing a change in the status of a particular topic or situation. It indicates that something has transitioned into a state requiring careful consideration due to its potential to cause offense or controversy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "became a sensitive issue" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to describe the evolution of a topic into one requiring careful consideration. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. Its neutral register and common usage in news, science, and formal business contexts make it suitable for various professional and academic discussions. When using this phrase, remember to consider your audience and tailor your language to avoid causing unnecessary discomfort. Exploring alternatives like "turned into a delicate matter" or "evolved into a contentious subject" can also help you fine-tune your message and convey the appropriate level of sensitivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turned into a delicate matter

Focuses on the fragility and need for careful handling of the situation.

evolved into a contentious subject

Highlights the disagreement and potential for conflict surrounding the topic.

transformed into a touchy subject

Emphasizes the potential for causing offense or discomfort.

morphed into a thorny question

Suggests the issue is complex and difficult to resolve.

developed into a problematic area

Indicates that the issue presents challenges and difficulties.

became a difficult topic

Highlights the challenge of addressing the subject.

became a controversial topic

Focuses on the disagreement and debate surrounding the topic.

grew into a heated debate

Emphasizes the intensity and passion of the discussion.

escalated into a critical point

Suggests the issue has reached a crucial and potentially volatile stage.

became a tricky subject

Indicates that careful navigation is required to avoid problems.

FAQs

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

Use "became a sensitive issue" to describe a topic that has evolved into one causing discomfort or controversy. For example, "The discussion about immigration reform quickly became a sensitive issue during the town hall meeting."

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

You can use alternatives like "turned into a delicate matter", "evolved into a contentious subject", or "transformed into a touchy subject" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "became a sensitive issue" in formal writing?

Yes, "became a sensitive issue" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing the evolution of a topic's status. However, ensure it aligns with the tone and audience.

What makes a topic "become a sensitive issue"?

A topic typically becomes a sensitive issue when it touches on deeply held beliefs, personal experiences, or societal values, leading to strong emotional responses or disagreements.