heated issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"heated issue" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a difficult topic or situation that people have strongly differing opinions about. For example, "The debate over gun control has become a heated issue for many Americans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

This was a heated issue.

The New Yorker

"I knew it would be a heated issue.

The Guardian - Film

DR. HENRY A. KISSINGER has weighed in on yet another heated issue, the ROGER CLEMENS and MIKE PIAZZA beanball matter.

The New York Times

The hiring of immigrant high-tech workers was a heated issue well before the economy went into a tailspin.

The New York Times

She was vehemently pro-European in a country where joining the European Union was a heated issue.

The New York Times

When baseball season starts this week, a heated issue will return to the table: what wine goes with hot dogs?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Early on, Oprah believes that she can help solve heated issues through on-air conversation — sometimes, the podcast points out, during sweeps.

The New Yorker

Spend a day or two at our lively organization, where we frequently discuss heated issues in an atmosphere of respect and good will.

Huffington Post

It delved deeper and allowed Ramadan to preach lessons of diversity, resistance, and peace in spite of uproars over current events and heated issues like the so-called "Ground Zero mosque".

Huffington Post

Also, heating issues that cause some 360s to break will be fixed, I'm guessing via an improved fan or something.

TechCrunch

In addition, the family and friends they discussed heating issues with often did not know any more than the participant and so could not provide advice.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "heated issue" to describe topics that evoke strong emotions and differing viewpoints. It's appropriate for both formal and informal contexts when you want to convey the intensity of a debate or disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "heated issue" when the topic is simply complex or requires careful consideration but doesn't necessarily generate strong emotional responses. Opt for terms like "complex matter" or "sensitive topic" instead.

Linguistic Context

Heated issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "heated" modifies the noun "issue". It describes a particular subject or problem characterized by strong emotions and conflicting opinions. The Ludwig AI indicates this is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. As per the examples found, this combination usually acts as a subject or object within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

8%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heated issue" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a topic that evokes strong emotions and differing viewpoints. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in news and media when discussing contentious subjects. While versatile, avoid overusing it in contexts where the issue is simply complex but doesn't necessarily generate intense emotional responses. Consider alternatives like "contentious topic" or "delicate matter" for more nuanced communication. Recognizing its function, purpose, and register can enhance clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contentious topic

Focuses on the controversial nature of the subject.

controversial subject

Highlights the disagreement and debate surrounding the subject.

polarizing issue

Emphasizes that the issue divides people into opposing groups.

hot-button topic

Emphasizes the sensitivity and emotional charge associated with the topic.

delicate matter

Suggests the issue requires careful handling and consideration.

sensitive subject

Indicates the topic may cause discomfort or offense.

bone of contention

Highlights that the issue is a major cause of disagreement.

matter of dispute

Focuses on the fact that the issue is being argued or debated.

thorny question

Suggests the issue is complex and difficult to resolve.

vexed question

Highlights that the question is hard to deal with and causes a lot of worry.

FAQs

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

You can use "heated issue" to describe a topic that generates strong emotions and disagreements, such as "Climate change has become a "heated issue" in political debates".

What are some synonyms for "heated issue"?

Alternatives to "heated issue" include "contentious topic", "controversial subject", or "hot-button topic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "heated issue" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "heated issue" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing politics, social issues, or other topics where strong opinions are involved. It conveys a sense of intensity without being overly informal.

What makes an issue "heated"?

An issue becomes "heated" when it sparks strong emotions, divides opinions, and leads to intense debate. This can be due to its impact on people's lives, values, or beliefs.