core issue

USAGE SUMMARY

'core issue' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an essential or fundamental problem or difficulty. For example, "The core issue of the argument is whether or not to raise taxes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What's the core issue?

The Guardian

"That is the core issue".

The New York Times

That's the core issue here".

The New York Times

This is the core issue.

The Guardian

"Kashmir is the core issue".

The New York Times

Culture is the core issue.

The Guardian

And it would skirt the core issue.

The New York Times

"The core issue will be terrorism".

The New York Times

He added, "This is the core issue.

The New Yorker

"That is not the core issue here.

The New York Times

"And it's not the core issue".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "core issue", ensure that you clearly define what that issue is to avoid ambiguity. Provide context or supporting information to clarify its importance.

Common error

Avoid labeling something as the "core issue" if it's only one of several significant factors. Overstating its importance can undermine your argument if other issues are equally or more relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "core issue" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the central or most important problem in a given context. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread use across various domains, as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "core issue" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the most essential problem or point in a given context. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, its versatility makes it suitable for various settings, ranging from news and media to scientific and business environments. While alternatives such as "central question" or "key problem" exist, it's important to use "core issue" precisely, ensuring that the issue identified is, in fact, the most central to the matter at hand. Avoiding overstatement and providing clear context are key to its effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crux of the issue

Highlights the most decisive or critical point.

heart of the matter

Points to the most important or essential aspect of something.

main concern

Highlights the primary source of worry or anxiety.

key problem

Emphasizes the most significant obstacle or challenge.

critical point

Underscores the essential element that must be considered.

central question

Focuses on the question that needs to be answered to resolve a situation.

fundamental question

Stresses the basic or foundational inquiry at stake.

underlying problem

Draws attention to a less obvious but crucial issue.

central theme

Highlights the unifying idea.

root cause

Emphasizes the origin or fundamental reason for a problem.

FAQs

How do I use "core issue" in a sentence?

Use "core issue" to identify the most important problem or central point in a discussion or situation. For example, "The "core issue" in the negotiation is the distribution of resources".

What can I say instead of "core issue"?

You can use alternatives like "central question", "main concern", or "key problem" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct: "core issue" or "main issue"?

Both "core issue" and "main issue" are correct and often interchangeable. However, "core issue" implies a more fundamental or essential problem, while "main issue" simply refers to the primary issue being discussed.

What's the difference between "core issue" and "underlying problem"?

"Core issue" refers to the most central or important problem. "Underlying problem" refers to a less visible issue that causes or contributes to other problems.