grave issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"grave issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a serious problem or situation. For example, "The foreign policy issue is a grave issue for the leader to address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

I think it would be a very grave issue".

The New York Times

The Paris agreement was not our first effort at tackling the grave issue of climate change.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its roots, it seems, lay in the grave issue of… Talk story about R. Luff Meredith, a falconer of Boonton, N.J.

The New Yorker

The tests, believed to be part of annual drills, did not constitute a "grave issue for Japan's security," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan said.

The New York Times

Its roots, it seems, lay in the grave issue of isolation versus intervention, and some pretty ugly things were said in the Record about a columnist on the News, who persistently opposed American aid to Britain.

The New Yorker

"I call upon the Prime Minister of India to look into this grave issue personally and ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted into the incident and perpetrators are brought to justice," the statement said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Twenty-five dead in Cairo raises grave issues of competence, trust and accountabilty at the heart of the Egyptian state.

The Guardian

Perhaps the most that can be hoped for is that grave issues presented by the Syrian atrocities will lead to a budgetary cease-fire rather than a stalemate.

The New York Times

It is the background of Horia & the position of the Goncourt Academy that have become the grave issues & have incensed public & literary opinion in Paris.

The New Yorker

Back then, human interest often came in small doses, sitting incongruously amid the thunder of strikes, embargoes, plane crashes, "grave issues" and prosecutions.

The New York Times

Beneath its cartoonish surface it tiptoes thematically along the edge of the grave issues that are now consuming all of us.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing a "grave issue", provide specific details and evidence to support your claims. Avoid generalizations or vague statements to ensure the seriousness of the issue is clearly conveyed.

Common error

While "grave issue" is a valid phrase, it's best reserved for situations of significant importance. Avoid using it for minor inconveniences or trivial problems, as this can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grave issue" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "grave" modifies the noun "issue", indicating that the issue is serious and significant. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, supported by numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grave issue" is a common and correct way to describe a serious problem or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in formal contexts like news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki articles. While grammatically sound, it's best reserved for significant matters to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "serious problem" or "critical matter" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. To use it effectively, provide specific details to highlight the severity of the issue and avoid overuse in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious problem

Focuses on the problematic aspect, less on the potential consequences.

critical matter

Highlights the urgency and importance requiring immediate attention.

major concern

Emphasizes the worry and anxiety associated with the issue.

significant challenge

Highlights the difficulty in overcoming the issue.

pressing question

Highlights the urgency and need for resolution.

dire situation

Emphasizes the negative and potentially catastrophic consequences.

acute crisis

Focuses on the sudden and intense nature of the problem.

burning question

Emphasizes the controversial and highly debated aspect of the matter.

vital subject

Highlights the fundamental importance of the topic.

momentous affair

Emphasizes the historical significance and long-term impact.

FAQs

How to use "grave issue" in a sentence?

You can use "grave issue" to describe a serious problem or situation. For example, "Climate change is a "grave issue" that needs immediate attention".

What can I say instead of "grave issue"?

You can use alternatives like "serious problem", "critical matter", or "major concern" depending on the context.

Is "grave issue" formal or informal?

"Grave issue" leans towards the formal side, suitable for serious discussions in news, academic, or professional settings. For informal conversations, less severe terms might be more appropriate.

What makes something a "grave issue"?

A "grave issue" involves significant consequences, potential harm, and a sense of urgency. It's not just a minor problem but something that requires serious attention and action.