formal issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formal issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a matter or problem that is serious or requires official attention, often in a professional or organizational context. Example: "The committee will address the formal issue of budget allocation in the upcoming meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Method is the formal issue that divides Dr. Greenberg from his critics.

The New York Times - Science

And the conduct of Southern California Gas is not a formal issue in the proceeding, which is limited to whether El Paso possessed or exercised "market power" that allowed it to artificially raise prices.

The New York Times

At the moment (2016, 2nd of May) this is the unique controversial formal issue that has stopped the election of the new Mappano's Major.

City, Territory and Architecture

"An Ecuadorean lawyer has taken up this question as a formal issue in the introduction of the hearing".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But what might be purely formal issues in another artist's hands are poignant and personal in Anderson's; space, displacement, and isolation become metaphors for diaspora.

The New Yorker

Tellingly, several black-and-white as well as some colorful, splashy gouaches feel more investigative of formal issues than the artist's big matte oils do.

The New Yorker

For all the pluralistic diversity, it begins to seem that everyone is on the same page, which is to say, being inventive about small formal issues or tightly defined conceptual conceits.

The New York Times - Arts

By considering them together, the viewer's attention is focused on technique, materials, processes, and such adamantly formal issues.

Huffington Post

"It's a very different proposition than my paintings, which seek to deal with formal issues such as transparency, luminosity, iridescence, depth, illusion.

Vice

The final list of criteria includes a total of 230 single criteria in three generic domains (formal issues, presentation and understandability, and neutrality and balance) and one CRC-specific domain.

BMC Public Health

From the identified documents, two researchers (MD, BB) extracted and grouped criteria on formal issues, CRC, CRC screening procedures, neutrality and balance, while two others (GS, IK) extracted criteria on presentation and understandability.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates what makes the issue "formal". Specify the rules, regulations, or procedures involved.

Common error

Avoid using "formal issue" in casual conversations or informal writing. It sounds overly stiff and unnatural. Opt for simpler terms like "problem" or "matter" when formality isn't necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formal issue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific matter or problem that is recognized within a structured environment, such as a business, legal, or academic setting. Ludwig indicates it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formal issue" is a noun phrase used to describe a matter that requires official attention and adherence to established procedures. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in written English. It is most appropriate in professional, academic, or legal settings and should be avoided in informal contexts. While its frequency is rare, understanding its function and purpose ensures accurate and effective communication. Related alternatives include "official matter" and "serious concern".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

official matter

Focuses on the official nature of the issue.

serious concern

Highlights the gravity of the issue.

procedural problem

Emphasizes the procedural aspect of the issue.

legal question

Highlights the legal implication of the issue.

regulatory matter

Stresses the regulatory dimension of the problem.

structured problem

Highlights the well defined and structured nature of the issue.

systematic complication

Highlights the systematic and complicated nature of the issue.

documented issue

Highlights that the issue has been documented.

acknowledged problem

Emphasizes that it is a problem that is already known or admitted.

established protocol

Emphasizes the issue arises from formal establishment and process.

FAQs

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

You can use "formal issue" to describe a matter that requires official attention. For example, "The committee will address the "formal issue" of budget allocation at the next meeting".

What's a good alternative to "formal issue"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "official matter", "serious concern", or "procedural problem".

Is it appropriate to use "formal issue" in informal settings?

No, "formal issue" is best suited for professional, academic, or legal contexts. In informal settings, it may sound overly stiff. Consider using a simpler phrase such as "problem" or "matter".

What distinguishes a "formal issue" from a regular problem?

A "formal issue" is one that requires an official process or procedure to resolve, often involving documentation, specific rules, or regulations. A regular problem may not necessarily require such stringent handling.