taking issue with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking issue with" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express disagreement or to challenge a statement or opinion. Example: "The professor was taking issue with the conclusions drawn in the research paper, arguing that the methodology was flawed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

In taking issue with the G.A.O.

The New York Times

Taking issue with Kushner is not easy.

The New Yorker

The mayor's office is taking issue with Mr. Levy's interpretation.

The New York Times

"If he's taking issue with some core idea.

The Guardian - Music

But Mary Fisher is still alive — and still taking issue with her political party.

The New York Times

Citadel is also taking issue with E*Trade's action on a possible sale.

The New York Times

Carbon Tracker has written to Shell taking issue with practically all its arguments.

The Economist

After botching a job inside the hotel, he is seen taking issue with Basil's disgruntled wife.

Independent

In 2006, a philosopher called Justin Good wrote an essay taking issue with such objections.

The Guardian

Why are some critics taking issue with Ms. Bigelow's merging of (nondocumentary) moviemaking and journalism?

The New York Times

Reviews have praised the work's intensity and richly drawn characters, while taking issue with its length.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "taking issue with", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific point or aspect you are disagreeing with. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "taking issue with" in very casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "disagree" or "question" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking issue with" functions as a verb phrase followed by a preposition, indicating disagreement or contention with a specific subject, idea, or person. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "taking issue with" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to indicate disagreement or challenge a particular point. Ludwig AI validates this, noting that the expression is suitable across various writing styles, but should be carefully employed in very informal conversations where simpler terms may suffice. Predominantly found in news and media, its function is to express a contrasting opinion or to initiate a debate. When seeking alternatives, phrases like "disagree with" or "challenge" may be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disagree with

This is a more general and straightforward way to express disagreement.

challenge

Implies a more direct and forceful questioning of a statement or idea.

dispute

Suggests a formal or argumentative disagreement.

question

Indicates doubt or uncertainty about something.

object to

Expresses disapproval or opposition.

take exception to

A more formal way of expressing disagreement or offense.

criticize

Involves pointing out faults or errors.

oppose

Indicates active resistance or disagreement.

contradict

Implies directly opposing a statement or idea.

rebut

Involves presenting evidence or arguments to disprove something.

FAQs

What does "taking issue with" mean?

The phrase "taking issue with" means to disagree with something or someone, or to challenge a particular point or idea.

How to use "taking issue with" in a sentence?

You can use "taking issue with" to express disagreement, for example, "The critic was "taking issue with" the director's interpretation of the play."

What can I say instead of "taking issue with"?

Alternatives include "disagree with", "challenge", "dispute", or "object to", depending on the context.

Is "taking issue with" formal or informal?

"Taking issue with" is generally considered more formal than simply "disagreeing", but it's still suitable for a variety of contexts, including news and professional writing.