protracted issue

USAGE SUMMARY

"protracted issue" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a problem or argument that has been occurring for a long period of time without resolution. For example, "The two sides have been arguing over the same protracted issue for years without ever coming to an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The embattled Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has to make concessions on the protracted issue of Iran's nuclear programs.

The New York Times

And lest this be seen as mere rhetoric, take the example of the damaging and unnecessarily protracted issue of the fan banning process.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think people are underestimating the potential it has to turn into a protracted issue," said Henry Lee, a director at Hendale Asset Management here.

The New York Times

This is a protracted issue, it's very complex and even when we say we've started the cleanup, there are a number of pre-activities that have to take place; the launch then takes place, and then we get on with the post-activities.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Unpacking beliefs around the law itself is one of many protracted issues that need to be dealt with.

The Guardian

Protracted issues with her weight, with drugs, and with her label, A&M Records, took their toll.

Huffington Post

A breakthrough on the protracted Cyprus issue would be a rare bit of good news for the EU.

The Guardian

"Unfortunately that got ruled out and then it got protracted with visa issues.

BBC

But a protracted fight over the issue in Congress will give Mr. Obama and the Democrats another opportunity to accuse the Republicans of conducting a "war on women".

The New York Times

But there are special lengths that The Times — or any other news organization — must go to when dealing with an issue so protracted, so complicated, and so politicized.

The New York Times

The script often seems to lose focus in side issues and protracted dialogue scenes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "protracted issue", ensure the context clearly establishes the length and ongoing nature of the problem. Providing specific details or examples of how the issue has persisted over time will strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "protracted issue" without providing sufficient background information. The audience may not understand the issue's history or why it is considered protracted. Briefly explain the timeline or key events to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "protracted issue" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It serves to identify and characterize a specific subject matter, emphasizing its prolonged and often difficult nature. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "protracted issue" is a correct and usable expression in written English, as verified by Ludwig AI. It effectively describes a problem or conflict that has persisted for a considerable time. While relatively rare in overall usage, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, conveying a neutral and somewhat formal tone. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "long-standing problem", "ongoing concern", or "unresolved matter", each offering subtle nuances in emphasis. When using "protracted issue", ensure the context clearly highlights the extended duration and complexities of the issue at hand to ensure that the audience understand its relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

long-standing problem

Focuses on the duration of the problem, emphasizing it has existed for a significant time.

ongoing concern

Highlights that the issue is still active and causing worry or attention.

lingering difficulty

Emphasizes that the difficulty persists and is slow to disappear.

unresolved matter

Indicates that the issue has not been settled or decided.

protracted conflict

Specifically refers to a drawn-out disagreement or war.

long-term challenge

Stresses the extended period over which the challenge will exist.

chronic problem

Indicates that the problem is persistent and recurring.

persistent dilemma

Highlights the enduring nature of the difficult choice or situation.

enduring struggle

Emphasizes the sustained effort required to overcome the difficulty.

complicated situation

Shifts the focus to the complex nature of the circumstances, implying a difficult resolution.

FAQs

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

You can use "protracted issue" to describe a problem that has lasted for a long time. For instance, "The negotiations failed to resolve the "protracted issue" of land ownership."

What's a good alternative to "protracted issue"?

Alternatives include "longstanding problem", "ongoing concern", or "unresolved matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "protracted issue" formal or informal?

"Protracted issue" is generally considered suitable for formal and neutral contexts, such as news reports, academic papers, and professional discussions. It might be less common in very informal conversations.

What makes an issue "protracted"?

An issue is considered "protracted" when it extends over a considerable period without resolution, often involving multiple stages, delays, or complexities. This contrasts with issues that are quickly resolved or short-lived.