main issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"main issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to an important problem or topic that needs to be addressed or solved. For example, "The main issue of the debate was climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Transparency is the main issue".

The New York Times

Immigration is the main issue.

The New York Times

Police are another main issue.

The New Yorker

Governance is the main issue.

The New Yorker

The main issue was pay.

The New York Times

The main issue is money.

The Economist

"Flooding is not our main issue.

The New York Times

Could advertising be the main issue?

Independent

Firstly, let's address the main issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jerusalem is a main issue of dispute.

The New York Times

The main issue is health, not jobs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, clearly define what the "main issue" is to avoid ambiguity. Provide context and supporting details to ensure your audience understands the significance of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "main issue" without specifying what it refers to. Always provide enough context so the reader understands exactly what problem or topic you are addressing. Avoid generalized statements that lack specific details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies the most significant problem or topic under consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "main issue" is a common and grammatically correct way to identify the most important problem or topic. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's versatile, fitting into neutral registers and various contexts like news, science, and business. When using "main issue", ensure you provide enough context to avoid vagueness, and consider related phrases like "key problem" or "central concern" for nuanced expression. Remember to define the "main issue" clearly to guide your reader effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key problem

Focuses more specifically on the problematic aspect, emphasizing a challenge.

central concern

Highlights the worry or anxiety connected to the topic, rather than just the topic itself.

primary focus

Shifts the emphasis to the central point of attention or concentration.

core question

Highlights the interrogative nature of the issue, framing it as a question to be answered.

chief difficulty

Emphasizes the challenge or obstacle that the issue presents.

fundamental challenge

Indicates a basic, underlying obstacle that needs to be overcome.

underlying problem

Suggests a less obvious, root cause of difficulties.

critical factor

Stresses the importance of the issue as a determining element.

major obstacle

Highlights the hindering aspect of the issue, portraying it as something blocking progress.

crux of the matter

Points directly to the most important and decisive point in a situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "main issue" to refer to the most important problem or topic being discussed. For example, "The "main issue" is the lack of funding for the project".

What is a synonym for "main issue"?

Some synonyms for "main issue" include "key problem", "central concern", or "primary focus", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "main issue" and "secondary issue"?

"Main issue" refers to the most important problem, while "secondary issue" refers to a less important or supporting problem. Addressing the "main issue" is typically the priority.

Is it appropriate to use "main issue" in formal writing?

Yes, "main issue" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and direct way to identify the most important topic or problem. You can also use alternatives like "principal issue" or "core problem".