intractable issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intractable issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or situation that is difficult to manage or resolve. Example: "The debate over climate change has become an intractable issue, with no clear solution in sight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

It's an intractable issue and needs as much attention as it's getting.

The New York Times

Since becoming secretary of state, Mr. Kerry has worked to jump-start the peace process, embracing a seemingly intractable issue.

The New York Times

"Program violence has been and continues to be a persistent and intractable issue at the city jail," Mr. Abady said.

The New York Times

"I am extremely glad that everybody could sit down together today and reach a conclusion on this intractable issue".

The New York Times

But he feels that while they are now producing the players, the intractable issue around first-team opportunities remains.

The Guardian - Sport

Because America's engagement with Iran has focussed on the single, intractable issue of nuclear arms, it has become difficult for the Administration to make perceptible progress.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"These are intractable issues," he said.

The New York Times

The seemingly intractable issues are well known.

The New York Times

And, as Tallis argues, there are other, more intractable issues.

The Guardian - Books

Yet officials on both sides say two seemingly intractable issues remain.

The New York Times

Can it continue, given the seemingly intractable issues and rancor between player and owner?

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intractable issue", provide specific context to clarify the nature and scope of the problem. Avoid generalizations that weaken the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "intractable issue" to describe everyday problems or minor inconveniences. This dilutes the phrase's impact and implies a level of difficulty that doesn't exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intractable issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "intractable" modifies the noun "issue". It is used to describe a problem that is particularly difficult or impossible to resolve. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intractable issue" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a problem that is difficult to solve. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s widely used in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts, highlighting complex and persistent challenges. While alternatives like "unsolvable problem" or "insurmountable difficulty" exist, "intractable issue" offers a specific emphasis on the challenging and resistant nature of the problem. Remember to use it thoughtfully, ensuring the context warrants the weight it carries, and avoid overusing it in trivial situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsolvable problem

This phrase directly replaces 'issue' with 'problem' while maintaining the meaning of being impossible to solve.

insurmountable difficulty

This phrase substitutes 'issue' with 'difficulty' and 'intractable' with 'insurmountable', emphasizing the impossibility of overcoming the obstacle.

persistent challenge

Replaces "issue" with "challenge" to focus on the ongoing effort to overcome it. 'Persistent' highlights the continuous nature of the difficulty.

complex dilemma

This phrase highlights the complicated nature of the problem and the difficult choice it presents.

thorny question

Replaces “issue” with “question”. The adjective 'thorny' emphasizes the sensitivity and potential for conflict in addressing the issue.

vexing matter

Using "vexing" emphasizes the frustrating and irritating nature of the problem.

unyielding obstacle

Replaces "issue" with "obstacle”. 'Unyielding' highlights the resistance to change or resolution.

challenging predicament

Substituting "issue" with "predicament" emphasizes the difficult or unpleasant situation. 'Challenging' underscores the effort required to manage it.

deep-seated conflict

This phrase emphasizes the entrenched nature of the disagreement or struggle underlying the issue.

recalcitrant situation

Using "recalcitrant" suggests the situation is stubbornly resistant to control or authority.

FAQs

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

Use "intractable issue" to describe a problem that is difficult or impossible to solve, such as: "Climate change remains an "intractable issue" despite global efforts."

What are some alternatives to "intractable issue"?

Alternatives include "unsolvable problem", "insurmountable difficulty", or "persistent challenge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "intractable problem" or "intractable issue"?

Both "intractable problem" and "intractable issue" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice depends on the specific context and whether you want to emphasize the problematic nature (problem) or the broader concern (issue).

What makes an issue "intractable"?

An issue is considered "intractable" when it resists resolution due to deeply rooted causes, conflicting interests, or a lack of viable solutions. It implies a high degree of complexity and resistance to change.