one issue at a time

USAGE SUMMARY

"one issue at a time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used as an expression of advice, urging someone to take one problem or task at a time rather than trying to deal with multiple issues simultaneously. For example, you might say "Let's try to tackle this project one issue at a time and I'm sure we can get it done quickly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The previous three sections, released between February and April, focused on one issue at a time: the first on science, the second on how the world could adapt to warming and the third about how countries could "mitigate," or reduce the greenhouse gases produced.

The New York Times - Science

One reason may have been their decision to focus on one issue at a time, a choice that can keep parties focused on their positions.

Harvard University

This allows senior executives to focus on one issue at a time until they reach a decision or set of decisions.

Harvard Business Review

The structure of the two-day talks in Havana may offer a hint as to why they foundered: The parties appeared to focus on one issue at a time, making their way down pre-established list (migration issues, passport fraud, and joint search-and-rescue missions on the first day; embassies on the second day).

Harvard University

Focus on one issue at a time so people don't feel attacked or overwhelmed.

Huffington Post

Participants can imagine options either by focusing on one issue at a time or by combining several issues into groups of common themes.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

The number one issue at this time is money.

Huffington Post

And heading into the mid-terms, the number one issue at this time is the job market.

HuffPost

Yes, we can be members of international organizations -- from Action Aid to Amnesty or Avaaz -- each playing their part effectively in this growing sector, even if they are only tackling one issue at at time.

Huffington Post

It is the least-likely option to cause side effects as compared to synthetic medications, and it is likely to benefit multiple aspects of our health at once instead of addressing one medical issue at a time like most medications.

Huffington Post

Zeroing In takes a look at key issues on the election agenda, one number at a time.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When facing multiple challenges, use "one issue at a time" to encourage a focused approach and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Common error

Avoid using "one issue at a time" when a holistic approach is necessary. Some situations require considering multiple factors simultaneously to achieve the best outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one issue at a time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action should be performed. As Ludwig AI points out, it's often used to provide advice or guidance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

22%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one issue at a time" is a grammatically sound phrase used to advocate for focused and methodical approaches. Ludwig AI identifies it as common advice to tackle problems individually. Although moderately frequent, its presence across diverse sources like News & Media and Academia showcases its widespread applicability. The phrase serves as a practical suggestion to avoid being overwhelmed by focusing on "one thing at a time", ensuring each matter receives dedicated attention. It's important, however, not to apply this approach to scenarios where a more holistic approach is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one thing at a time

This alternative uses "thing" instead of "issue", offering a more general scope.

focus on one task

This alternative emphasizes the act of focusing rather than the individual task.

take it one step at a time

This phrase highlights gradual progress, different from simply isolating an issue.

deal with each item separately

This version stresses separation and individual handling of items.

address concerns individually

This phrase refers to handling "concerns" as opposed to "issues", with more formal tone.

resolve matters sequentially

This version is more formal, indicating a specific order in resolution.

handle aspects one by one

This focuses on handling "aspects" sequentially.

concentrate on individual problems

This is more specific to "problems" and emphasizes concentration.

work through items systematically

This implies a methodical and organized approach.

tackle points in isolation

This stresses isolating points for independent consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "one issue at a time" in a sentence?

You can use "one issue at a time" to suggest focusing on individual tasks or problems, for example: "Let's address these challenges "one issue at a time" to ensure thorough resolution".

What is a good alternative to "one issue at a time"?

Alternatives include "one thing at a time", "focus on one task", or "take it one step at a time" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to address multiple issues simultaneously instead of "one issue at a time"?

Addressing multiple issues simultaneously can be appropriate when issues are interconnected or when a holistic strategy provides a more efficient or effective solution.

Is it more efficient to work on "one issue at a time" or to multitask?

Generally, focusing on "one issue at a time" is more efficient because multitasking can lead to decreased focus and increased errors.