lingering issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"lingering issue" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase.
You can use it when referring to a problem that is not easily resolved, or that persists despite efforts to solve it. For example: "The budget shortfall remains a lingering issue for the city's government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

The lingering issue was religion.

The New Yorker

Candrea raised a lingering issue, if not a damaging one for softball's future at the Olympics.

The New York Times - Sports

If not managed carefully, however, a lingering issue from the past could stain this moment of opportunity with tragedy.

The New York Times

There were some complaints from the public outside about lack of access to the ceremony, a lingering issue in Qunu.

Independent

One lingering issue involves Burress, who was suspended for one game earlier this season for missing a team meeting.

The New York Times - Sports

The only lingering issue is not whether Lancaster keeps his job but precisely who works with him.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Though Big East officials and athletic directors are confident they will rebuild, there are lingering issues.

The New York Times - Sports

The new Selhurst Park boss brushed off any lingering issues with the 27-year-old.

Independent

It would be shocking if the lingering issues were not resolved by today.

The New York Times - Sports

Clemons showed no lingering issues from his injury when he returned.

The Guardian - Sport

There are fundamental and lingering issues that the Independent Police Complaints Commission investigation – now re-opened – must attempt to clarify.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lingering issue" when you want to emphasize that the problem is not easily resolved and may require ongoing attention.

Common error

Avoid using "lingering issue" in overly casual or informal settings. Opt for simpler terms like "ongoing problem" or "unresolved matter" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lingering issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific problem or matter that persists over time and remains unresolved. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a perfectly correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lingering issue" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a persistent problem that remains unresolved. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and the analysis reveals its frequent occurrence in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's best to avoid it in very informal settings. Consider alternatives like "unresolved matter" or "ongoing problem" depending on the context. By understanding its usage and potential alternatives, writers can effectively communicate the persistence of an issue and its potential impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unresolved matter

Focuses on the lack of resolution.

outstanding problem

Highlights the problem's current state of being unresolved.

persistent difficulty

Emphasizes the continuing nature of the problem.

remaining challenge

Indicates that the challenge is still present.

unsettled question

Focuses on the lack of a definite answer or resolution.

ongoing concern

Highlights the continuous worry or anxiety about the issue.

nagging doubt

Emphasizes the persistent and bothersome nature of the doubt.

chronic problem

Indicates a long-lasting and recurring issue.

recurrent difficulty

Highlights the repeated occurrence of the difficulty.

unresolved conflict

Focuses on the lack of resolution in a disagreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "lingering issue" to describe a problem that persists despite efforts to resolve it. For example: "The lack of funding remains a "lingering issue" for the project."

What are some alternatives to "lingering issue"?

Alternatives include "unresolved matter", "outstanding problem", or "persistent difficulty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "lingering issue" formal or informal?

"Lingering issue" is generally considered neutral to formal. While acceptable in news and media, consider a less formal phrase like "ongoing problem" in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "lingering issue" and "lingering problem"?

The terms are largely interchangeable. "Lingering issue" might imply a more complex or systemic challenge, while "lingering problem" can refer to something more specific and isolated.