immediate issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "immediate issue" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in any situation where you want to refer to a problem or situation that is currently happening or requires immediate attention. For example, "The immediate issue at hand is how we are going to resolve this dispute quickly and peacefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The immediate issue is the exchange rate.

The Economist

The most immediate issue is Syria.

The Economist

The immediate issue is manpower.

The New York Times

The immediate issue is the proposed amnesty for jailed protesters.

The Economist

But the immediate issue was Tom's summer job.

The New Yorker

The most immediate issue involves a tax repatriation holiday.

The New York Times

For many Afghans, the most immediate issue is security.

The New York Times

A more immediate issue is the fate of affirmative action.

The New York Times

We must focus on the immediate issue And not the thing you keep asking about.

The Guardian

The more immediate issue is what prison terms those convicted will receive.

The New York Times

The second, and more immediate, issue is Clinton's tendency to make verbal gaffes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "immediate issue", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the issue 'immediate'. Provide specific details to avoid ambiguity and ensure the reader understands the urgency or importance.

Common error

Avoid using "immediate issue" as a generic placeholder for any problem. Overuse can dilute its impact. Reserve it for situations where time sensitivity or urgency is genuinely critical. When another expression can accurately describe the problem, opt for the most precise and descriptive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "immediate issue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific problem, concern, or matter that requires prompt attention or resolution. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "immediate issue" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to highlight pressing problems that require prompt attention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and professional settings. Related phrases include "pressing concern" and "urgent matter". To ensure effective communication, it's crucial to provide context and avoid overuse. While the phrase is neutral in tone, its impact is strongest when reserved for genuinely time-sensitive situations. The phrase's high frequency across authoritative sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist further reinforces its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pressing concern

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the issue.

urgent matter

Highlights the need for immediate action or consideration.

current problem

Focuses on the issue as it exists now, needing resolution.

most pressing problem

Highlights the relative importance of the problem compared to others.

primary concern

Indicates that the issue is the main focus of attention.

key issue

Highlights the fundamental nature and importance of the issue.

burning question

Emphasizes the urgency and intensity surrounding the issue.

top priority

Positions the issue as the most important item requiring attention.

critical point

Underlines the significance and potential impact of the issue.

immediate challenge

Frames the issue as an obstacle that needs to be overcome quickly.

FAQs

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

Use "immediate issue" to highlight a pressing problem that requires prompt attention. For example, "The "immediate issue" is resolving the network outage before the trading day begins."

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

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "pressing concern", "urgent matter", or "current problem".

Is it redundant to say "most immediate issue"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "most immediate issue" can be redundant. "Immediate issue" already implies urgency and importance. Consider using "key issue" or "primary concern" for emphasis.

What's the difference between "immediate issue" and "long-term concern"?

"Immediate issue" refers to a problem needing immediate attention, while "long-term concern" addresses potential future problems. For example, the "immediate issue" is managing the budget shortfall, but the long-term concern is ensuring financial stability.