key issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"key issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to denote an issue that is important or central to a discussion. For example, "Climate change is a key issue in this election, and every candidate has proposed ways to address it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Chemistry remains a key issue.

The New York Times - Sports

Contagion is the key issue.

The New York Times

The key issue is consent.

The New Yorker

But water remains a key issue.

The New York Times

Cost is a key issue.

The New York Times

They achieve; that's the key issue.

The Guardian

Cost is becoming the key issue.

The Guardian

Pensions: This is another key issue.

The Guardian

Universities are a key issue, he says.

The Guardian

The key issue is royalty payments.

The Guardian - Tech

The key issue, though, is Trident.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key issue", ensure the context clearly establishes why the issue is important. Provide specific details or examples to support its significance.

Common error

Avoid using "key issue" as a generic filler. If everything is a "key issue", then nothing truly stands out. Prioritize and articulate the specific impact of the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in identifying crucial aspects of a topic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key issue" is a frequently used phrase to emphasize the most important aspect of a situation. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts, most notably in news, media, and scientific publications. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to provide specific details to support the importance of the identified issue. Avoid overusing the phrase and consider using alternatives like "primary concern" or "critical factor" for greater impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary concern

Focuses more on the element of worry or attention rather than just importance.

crucial point

Emphasizes decisiveness and importance in decision-making.

main problem

Highlights the problematic aspect of the issue.

critical factor

Highlights the importance of something as a determinant.

major consideration

Focuses on the aspect of careful thought and evaluation.

chief concern

Like "primary concern", but with a stronger emphasis on apprehension or worry.

central question

Emphasizes the interrogative aspect, framing it as a question to be answered.

core challenge

Suggests a difficult task or obstacle.

significant aspect

Highlights importance of a part or feature of something.

fundamental element

Stresses the basic or essential nature of the component.

FAQs

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

You can use "key issue" to highlight an important problem or point of discussion. For example: "The "key issue" is funding for the new project" or "A "key issue" that emerged was maintenance".

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

Alternatives to "key issue" include phrases like "primary concern", "main problem", or "critical factor", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a key issue" or just "key issue"?

Both "a key issue" and "key issue" are grammatically correct, but "a key issue" is more common when introducing it for the first time. "Key issue" (without "a") can be used when it's already been established as important or in headings.

What is the difference between "key issue" and "important matter"?

While both refer to something significant, ""key issue"" often implies a problem or point of contention that needs resolution. "Important matter" is broader and can refer to anything of significance, not necessarily a problem.