essential issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "essential issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental or critical matter that needs to be addressed or considered. Example: "The essential issue at hand is whether we should proceed with the project given the current budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's an essential issue.

The Guardian

The essential issue lies elsewhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

"That's the essential issue when it comes to mass killings".

The New York Times

Last week's First Circuit decision also avoided this essential issue.

The New York Times

"So for Ukraine, producing more gas is an essential issue".

The New York Times

Mr Miliband is correct that it is an essential issue to address.

The Guardian - Opinion

You would have the same essential issue if it were a private nonsectarian school".

The New York Times

"The essential issue is the same: We aren't sure 'they' belong with God at all.

The New York Times

Though Microsoft is not a litigant in the case, the company's plans have become an essential issue in the trial.

The New York Times

Is that a misuse of power?" BS: "I think VIP security is an essential issue in India.

The Guardian

"The developed countries are trying every means possible to avoid discussion of the essential issue — that is, emission reductions".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "essential issue", ensure the context clearly establishes why the issue is critical to the discussion. Provide supporting details or examples to reinforce its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "essential issue" for trivial matters. Overusing this phrase can dilute its impact, making it seem less significant when applied to genuinely crucial topics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "essential issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "essential" modifies "issue" to indicate its critical or fundamental nature. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "essential issue" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to highlight a critical point or problem. As noted by Ludwig AI, its versatility allows it to feature across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and business domains. While appropriate for many situations, avoid overuse to maintain its emphasis. Alternatives like "key concern" or "fundamental problem" can add nuance, yet "essential issue" remains a strong choice for underscoring significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical matter

Focuses on the urgency and importance of the issue.

key concern

Highlights the aspect of worry or importance from someone's perspective.

fundamental problem

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the issue.

central question

Presents the issue as a query needing resolution.

core challenge

Highlights the difficulty and importance of the problem.

primary focus

Indicates the main point of attention.

chief concern

Similar to key concern but with a slightly stronger emphasis.

pressing matter

Stresses the urgency and need for immediate action.

significant point

Highlights the relevance and weight of the issue.

vital aspect

Underscores that the issue is crucial and necessary.

FAQs

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

You can use "essential issue" to highlight a critical point. For example, "The "essential issue" is ensuring access to clean water".

What is a good alternative to "essential issue"?

Alternatives include "key concern", "critical matter", or "fundamental problem", depending on the specific context.

What makes an issue "essential"?

An issue becomes "essential" when it's fundamental to a decision, outcome, or process. It is a "core challenge" that must be addressed.

Is "essential issue" formal or informal?

"Essential issue" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's most often seen in professional and academic writing. In very informal settings, you might opt for something like "main thing".