Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
the core issue is that
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "the core issue is that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce the main problem or concern in a discussion or argument. Example: "In our debate about climate change, the core issue is that we need to take immediate action to reduce carbon emissions."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
8 human-written examples
The core issue is that working out is boring and time-consuming.
News & Media
David Brooks writes, "But the core issue is that today's rich don't exploit the poor; they just outcompete them".
News & Media
The core issue is that the Communist Party labeled the student-led demonstrations in Beijing a "counterrevolutionary rebellion".
News & Media
The core issue is that Serano does not see gender as fundamentally relational.
Science
In practice, yet, the core issue is that one would only know finitely many input-output samples while the input-output relationship would be undisclosed analytically.
Science
The core issue is that Google is prominently placing unverified claims high up in its hierarchy of relevance-ranked data — aka "Google search results" — which the company has itself previously likened to a library index of truthful data.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
50 human-written examples
The core issue is not that the man is unfaithful, lies, cheats and betrays the woman.
News & Media
"The core issue is the stress that being more thinly staffed and [budget] uncertainty puts on the team," Kelly said.
News & Media
His core issue is that the nation needs to strike a better balance between markets and government.
News & Media
"Anyone who tells you that the core issue is the needs of those living here illegally has simply spent too much time in Washington.
News & Media
But I know of no fellow liberal or gay friend who doesn't think that the core issue is one of loving another person.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "the core issue is that" to clearly and directly introduce the most important problem or consideration in your argument. This helps focus the reader's attention.
Common error
Avoid using "the core issue is that" when the issue is already obvious or oversimplified. Instead, provide more nuanced analysis without relying on this introductory phrase.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "the core issue is that" serves as a declarative phrase introducing the central problem, concern, or point in a discussion. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's a grammatically sound way to focus attention on the most important aspect of a topic.
Frequent in
News & Media
60%
Science
30%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "the core issue is that" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to introduce the central problem or concern in a discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media, and science contexts. While effective for focusing attention, it should be used judiciously to avoid oversimplification. Consider alternatives like "the main concern is that" or "the key point is that" for nuanced expression. Using this phrase correctly can significantly enhance clarity and direction in your writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
the central problem is that
Replaces "core issue" with "central problem", focusing on the problematic aspect.
the main concern is that
Substitutes "core issue" with "main concern", highlighting a worry or point of anxiety.
the key point is that
Uses "key point" instead of "core issue", emphasizing importance.
the fundamental problem is that
Replaces "core issue" with "fundamental problem", stressing the foundational nature of the issue.
the underlying reason is that
Highlights the causal aspect, focusing on the reason beneath the surface.
the critical factor is that
Emphasizes the decisive or crucial element.
the heart of the matter is that
A more figurative way to express the central point.
the primary focus is that
Shifts the emphasis to what should be given the most attention.
the significant aspect is that
Highlights the importance of a particular facet.
the real crux of the matter is that
Uses "crux" to indicate the most vital or difficult point.
FAQs
How can I use "the core issue is that" in a sentence?
You can use "the core issue is that" to introduce the central problem or concern in a discussion or argument. For example, "In our debate about climate change, the core issue is that we need to take immediate action to reduce carbon emissions."
What are some alternatives to "the core issue is that"?
You can use alternatives like "the main concern is that", "the key point is that", or "the fundamental problem is that" depending on the context.
Is "the core issue is that" formal or informal?
"The core issue is that" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.
What's the difference between "the core issue is that" and "the main issue is that"?
While both phrases are similar, "the core issue is that" often implies a deeper, more fundamental problem, whereas "the main issue is that" simply indicates the most important topic at hand.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested