take issue with something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take issue with something" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express disagreement or to challenge a particular point or statement. Example: "I must take issue with your assessment of the situation; I believe there are other factors to consider."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Reader's pay Forbes readers often write to take issue with something we've published, but last year Kurt Moeller went a step further.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ha, I might borrow that one, for the next time my editor takes issue with something.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Bridgette Kluger This article seems to be hitting close to home for many, because almost every commenter seems to be taking issue with something.

The New York Times

This isn't an example of some people taking unnecessary offence at a "harmless joke" (a genuine accusation I've received); it's taking issue with something that, for profit, suggests a large and often-mistreated subsection of the population are all bloodthirsty murderers.

The Guardian

One post a bit earlier took issue with something I'd written and even goes so far as to completely misrepresent a post I wrote in order to target McAuliffe.

Huffington Post

Michael C. Hall: Sometimes I'll maybe take issue with how something's happening, but as far as what happens, it always is justifiable.

Los Angeles Times

If we wrote something that took issue with the textbook, he was overjoyed.

The Washington Post

We understand there are people taking issue with it, but this is not something we think needs to be corrected".

The New York Times - Books

When Edith Wharton reworked themes from The Wings of the Dove in The House of Mirth, she may have been doing something similar, taking issue with a serenely bossy older brother, seeking to show that she was the one who really understood women's lives.

The Guardian - Books

He took issue with the notion that there is something wrong with him for wanting to be private.

Vice

The fact our water was shut off on a Friday afternoon with no way to get it turned on over the weekend was not something I took issue with at the time.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take issue with something" when you want to express disagreement or challenge a specific point, often in a formal or professional context. For a more direct approach, consider "disagree with".

Common error

Avoid using "take issue with something" in very informal settings. It can sound overly formal or even pretentious among friends or in casual conversation. Opt for simpler expressions like "disagree" or "don't agree".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take issue with something" functions as an idiomatic expression used to express disagreement or opposition. It's a more formal way of saying "disagree" or "challenge". According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Wiki

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take issue with something" is a versatile idiomatic expression used to express disagreement or challenge a point, often in a formal or professional context. Ludwig confirms that it's correct and widely used, particularly in news and media. While generally acceptable, it's essential to consider the context and audience. In more informal settings, simpler alternatives like "disagree" or "don't agree" may be more appropriate. When aiming for precision and impact, "challenge", "object to", or "dispute" may better suit your purpose. This nuanced approach ensures effective communication in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disagree with something

A more straightforward and less idiomatic way of expressing disagreement.

challenge something

Implies a more direct and forceful questioning or opposition.

object to something

Suggests a formal or official expression of disapproval.

dispute something

Focuses on questioning the truth or validity of something.

take exception to something

Indicates offense or resentment towards something.

call something into question

Raises doubts about the validity or accuracy of something.

express reservations about something

Conveys a feeling of uncertainty or doubt about something.

raise concerns about something

Highlights potential problems or negative consequences associated with something.

beg to differ on something

A polite and somewhat formal way of disagreeing.

find fault with something

Focuses on identifying flaws or shortcomings in something.

FAQs

What does "take issue with something" mean?

The phrase "take issue with something" means to disagree with something, challenge it, or express disapproval of it. It's often used in formal contexts.

How can I use "take issue with something" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "I must "take issue with something" you said earlier about the budget cuts." or "Many experts "took issue with" the proposed policy changes."

What are some alternatives to "take issue with something"?

Alternatives include "disagree with something", "challenge something", "object to something", or "dispute something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "take issue with something" formal or informal?

"Take issue with something" is generally considered a formal expression. In informal contexts, it's often better to use simpler phrases like "disagree" or "don't agree".