momentous issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "momentous issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to an important matter or topic that has considerable importance or consequence. For example: The media has been closely following the debate on the government's proposed healthcare reforms, which has become a momentous issue for both sides.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The Czechoslovak federation began to appear increasingly fragile in 1991 92, and separatism became a momentous issue.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is difficult to think of a more momentous issue than whether Britain should or should not remain in the EU.

The Guardian - Opinion

But something as seemingly trivial as her reluctance to accept Noah's loose change grows into a momentous issue when she apparently pockets a $20 bill.

The Guardian

The question of whether those methods amounted to torture is a historically and legally momentous issue that has been debated for more than a decade inside and outside the government.

The New York Times

Anti-abortion groups have already said that they will push for a referendum if the court ruling goes against them, arguing that is a better way to decide such a momentous issue.

The New York Times

Copenhagen, first seen in 1998, is an even greater play in that it deals with a more momentous issue: what took place in 1941 when Werner Heisenberg, the potential father of a German atomic bomb, visited his mentor and former colleague, Niels Bohr, in occupied Denmark.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In response, the federal government acknowledged the momentous issues involved.

The New York Times

As he well understood, the question raised momentous issues.

The New York Times - Books

Historically, the filibuster was employed to ensure that momentous issues receive a full and fair hearing.

The New York Times

The two cases the court has agreed to review involve more momentous issues.

The New York Times

In the past, weekend sessions of Congress have dealt with momentous issues like impeachment or fiscal emergencies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "momentous issue" in situations where the outcome has considerable impact or long-term implications. It adds weight to your argument or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "momentous issue" to describe everyday problems or minor disagreements. This can dilute the impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic. Reserve it for truly significant matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "momentous issue" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "momentous" modifies the noun "issue". It serves to emphasize the high degree of importance, significance, or consequence associated with the matter at hand. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "momentous issue" is a grammatically sound and widely understood phrase used to denote a matter of significant importance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While applicable across various contexts, it is most frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific and encyclopedic sources. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly highlights the issue's importance and avoid overusing it in trivial situations. Alternatives such as "significant matter" or "critical question" may be considered to subtly shift the emphasis. Its communicative purpose is to stress the critical nature of a topic and highlight its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant matter

Focuses on the importance or consequence of the issue.

critical question

Highlights the importance of the issue being addressed.

important subject

Emphasizes the topic's relevance or value.

major concern

Indicates a worry or problem of considerable size.

pivotal point

Stresses the turning point or central nature of the issue.

key consideration

Highlights that the issue needs careful thought and attention.

essential element

Indicates the necessity and indispensability of the issue.

substantial challenge

Underscores the difficulty and demanding nature of the issue.

vital area

Focuses on the life-sustaining or extremely important aspect of the issue.

weighty subject

Emphasizes the seriousness and significance of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "momentous issue" in a sentence?

You can use "momentous issue" to describe a topic or problem of great significance. For example: "The debate over climate change is a "momentous issue" for future generations".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "momentous issue"?

Alternatives to "momentous issue" include phrases like "significant matter", "critical question", or "important subject", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "momentous issue" is suitable for formal writing. It effectively communicates the gravity and importance of the topic being discussed, as demonstrated by its presence in sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

What makes an issue "momentous"?

An issue is "momentous" when it has significant and lasting consequences, affecting many people or having a profound impact on events. It goes beyond being merely important and carries substantial weight.