defining issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"defining issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a topic or problem that is of utmost importance and that needs to be taken into consideration. For example, "Climate change is a defining issue that will have far-reaching effects on our society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why make it his defining issue now?

The Guardian - Opinion

"It is a defining issue," he said.

The Guardian

Social Security is the defining issue of the election.

The New York Times

Another administration adviser said: "It's a defining issue.

The New York Times

Or perhaps class is the defining issue in Bridezilla?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Climate change is the defining issue for the 21st century.

The Guardian

Climate change remains the defining issue of our era.

The Guardian - Opinion

Q: What's the defining issue in all of these races?

The New York Times

Inequality, he said, was the "defining issue of our time".

The Economist

Hatred of the Roma has become a defining issue.

The Economist

"Sustainability is going to be the defining issue of the 21st century," she says.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defining issue", ensure it accurately reflects the most significant aspect of the topic being discussed. This phrase carries substantial weight, so use it judiciously to highlight pivotal elements.

Common error

Avoid using "defining issue" for minor or secondary concerns. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact and can make your writing seem exaggerated or hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "defining" acts as an adjective modifying "issue". It serves to identify the most important or characteristic problem or subject under consideration, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defining issue" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to emphasize the paramount importance of a subject matter. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for use in written English. Its communicative purpose lies in highlighting the significance of an issue in shaping decisions or influencing outcomes. Commonly found in News & Media, Encyclopedia and Science contexts, its register leans toward neutral to formal. When employing "defining issue", ensure it accurately reflects the most significant aspect of the topic at hand, and avoid overuse in less significant contexts to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical matter

Stresses the issue's importance and urgency.

crucial point

Emphasizes that the issue is a vital consideration.

key question

Emphasizes that the issue is a central question needing resolution.

main priority

Highlights the issue as the most important task or goal.

core concern

Focuses on the issue as a fundamental worry or area of interest.

central theme

Highlights the issue as a recurring and unifying idea.

fundamental problem

Indicates the issue is a root cause of difficulties.

primary focus

Indicates the main point of attention or effort.

underlying principle

Highlights the issue as a foundational belief or rule.

essential element

Presents the issue as a necessary component of a larger situation.

FAQs

How can I use "defining issue" in a sentence?

Use "defining issue" to emphasize the most important aspect of a situation or problem. For example, "Climate change is the "defining issue" of our time".

What are some alternatives to "defining issue"?

You can use alternatives such as "key question", "critical matter", or "primary focus" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is a defining issue or the defining issue?

Both are grammatically correct, but "the defining issue" suggests it is the single most important issue. "A defining issue" implies it's one of several important issues.

What makes an issue a "defining issue"?

A "defining issue" is one that fundamentally shapes outcomes, decisions, or perceptions. It is often a central point of contention or a critical factor in understanding a situation.