is at the nub of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is at the nub of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the central or most important point of a discussion or issue. Example: "The debate about climate change is at the nub of our environmental policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This could not be more ironic, given that the removal of public space in the City is at the nub of the row between the protesters and the Corporation of London.

The Guardian - Opinion

The first day of President Clinton's visit to India today was haunted by an atrocity committed last night in Kashmir, the Himalayan territory that is at the nub of half a century of conflict between India and Pakistan -- and that the Americans fear could be a nuclear flashpoint.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Relations between Kenya and Britain, one of its biggest donors, are at their lowest ebb for years.The British government has refused to say why it has banned Mr Murungaru, but it is clear that allegations of corruption are at the nub of the row.

The Economist

SN: We're at the nub of it now.

Science Magazine

To know where C PAC is, you have to know where it is: at the nub-end of East Forty-eighth Street, up against some railroad tracks, beyond a sign that says "We Buy Junk Transmissions" and the shipping-and-receiving entrance of a company called Moes Wear.

The New Yorker

To know where C-PAC is, you have to know where it is: at the nub-end of East Forty-eighth Street, up against some railroad tracks, beyond a sign that says "We Buy Junk Transmissions" and the shipping-and-receiving entrance of a company called Moes Wear.

The New Yorker

This kind of attitude is the at the nub of the dispute over a trial of Khmer Rouge leaders, said Demelza Stubbings, a representative of the London-based rights group Amnesty International.

The New York Times

That is also the nub of political discomfort, at a time of hostility to "fat cats" enriched by the public purse.

The Economist

Indeed, that is really the nub of the problem.

The New York Times

And this is perhaps the nub of Flower's perception-management issue right now.

The Guardian - Sport

Comeback Story is probably the nub of this well-pitched Kings record.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is at the nub of" when you want to emphasize that something is the central or most critical aspect of a complex issue. It's particularly effective when discussing debates, conflicts, or intricate problems.

Common error

Avoid using "is at the nub of" in simple or straightforward situations where more common phrases like "is about" or "concerns" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is at the nub of" functions as a prepositional phrase that identifies the core or central element of a subject matter. Ludwig indicates that it’s considered correct English. It serves to pinpoint what is most essential in a given context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is at the nub of" is a useful phrase for emphasizing the core issue or central point of a matter. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. While "is at the nub of" is most commonly found in News & Media, you can also use it in Science or Formal & Business contexts. Consider using alternatives like "is central to" or "is at the heart of" for variety. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where you truly want to highlight the most critical aspect of a complex issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is central to

Emphasizes the importance of something being a key element.

is at the heart of

Highlights the emotional or essential core of something.

is at the core of

Focuses on the fundamental or basic element.

is fundamental to

Stresses the foundational nature of something.

is key to

Indicates something essential for achieving a result.

is the essence of

Highlights the most important quality or aspect.

is the crux of

Points to the most decisive or critical point.

is the root of

Indicates the origin or cause of something.

is the basis of

Focuses on the foundation or support for something.

revolves around

Suggests that everything is centered on a particular point.

FAQs

How can I use "is at the nub of" in a sentence?

You can use "is at the nub of" to highlight the central point or core issue in a discussion or conflict. For example, "The debate about data privacy "is at the nub of" many tech policy discussions".

What are some alternatives to "is at the nub of"?

Alternatives include "is central to", "is at the heart of", or "is fundamental to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "is at the nub of" formal or informal?

"Is at the nub of" leans towards a more formal register, suitable for analytical or critical discussions in professional, academic, or news contexts. Simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal settings.

What does "is at the nub of" mean?

It means to be at the central or most important point of something, like an issue, problem, or discussion. It highlights the core essence that everything else revolves around.