looming issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looming issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a problem or concern that is approaching or becoming more significant and urgent. Example: "The looming issue of climate change requires immediate action from governments and individuals alike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

College is also a looming issue.

The New Yorker

The biggest looming issue is the alternative minimum tax.

The New York Times

"The looming issue is: should peanuts be taken off airplanes?" said Dr. Greenhawt.

The New York Times

Of course, the looming issue will focus not on youth, but age.

The New York Times - Sports

Right there is the big looming issue and a proper inflection point for BT.

The Guardian

Another looming issue is the direction of traffic on Clinton Street.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

But there were two looming issues in the model.

The New York Times

The looming issues of gender equity and sexism are larger than Sainz.

The New York Times - Sports

"There are two new looming issues," said Jordan Rohan, an analyst at Soundview Technologies.

The New York Times

But early projects, like negotiation of the New Start treaty, have been largely symbolic, he said, staying clear of looming issues like energy policy and development of the Arctic.

The New York Times

Regardless of who wins, the next president will have a long list of immediate and looming issues to address, and fewer fiscal constraints in doing so than any president since Lyndon B. Johnson.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looming issue" when you want to convey a sense of urgency and importance regarding a problem that is about to surface or escalate. This phrase is effective in highlighting the need for proactive measures.

Common error

While "looming issue" is appropriate for formal discussions and news reporting, avoid using it too frequently in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "upcoming problem" or "something to consider" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looming issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "looming" acts as an adjective modifying "issue". It describes a problem or situation that is significant and about to emerge or intensify. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looming issue" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe a significant and emerging problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a noun phrase emphasizing the urgency and importance of a particular matter. It's frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While versatile, it's best suited for professional and formal writing, avoiding overuse in casual situations. Consider alternatives like "impending problem" or "emerging challenge" to suit different contexts. Over all it represents a professional and clear way to describe a serious problem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impending problem

Focuses more on the negative aspect and certainty of occurrence.

approaching crisis

Highlights the severity and potential for negative outcomes.

emerging challenge

Emphasizes the novelty and the need to address it proactively.

gathering storm

Uses a metaphor to convey a sense of growing threat.

brewing trouble

Suggests a problem that is developing and may soon erupt.

developing concern

Focuses on the growing awareness and worry about a particular matter.

rising threat

Highlights the increasing danger or risk associated with something.

oncoming difficulty

Emphasizes the inevitability and proximity of a problem.

pending crisis

Similar to impending problem but carries a sense of waiting or delay.

shadowy prospect

Indicates an uncertain but potentially negative future event.

FAQs

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

You can use "looming issue" to describe a problem or concern that is approaching or becoming more significant and urgent. For example, "The "looming issue" of climate change requires immediate action."

What are some alternatives to "looming issue"?

You can use alternatives like "impending problem", "emerging challenge", or "gathering storm" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "looming issue" and "pressing concern"?

"Looming issue" suggests that the problem is approaching or about to happen, while "pressing concern" implies that the issue is already present and requires immediate attention.

Is it appropriate to use "looming issue" in all types of writing?

While "looming issue" is generally appropriate for formal writing, news reporting, and professional discussions, it may sound overly dramatic in casual or informal contexts. Consider using simpler alternatives for a more natural tone.