the foremost issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the foremost issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight the most important or primary concern in a discussion or context. Example: "In our meeting today, we need to address the foremost issue affecting our project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"It's the foremost issue facing our country, and our country broadly supports a different policy.

The New York Times

While political reform was the keystone of the Arizona senator's campaign, only a minority of McCain voters cited campaign finance changes as the foremost issue.

The New York Times

Mr. Ben-Eliezer dwelled today on the state of Israel's economy, which is emerging as the foremost issue in the campaign.

The New York Times

It is necessary, however, to resolve the foremost issue regarding the large volume changes during the charge/discharge process.

Nano Energy

It is necessary, however, to resolve the foremost issue for them in terms of practical applications, relating to the large volume changes during cell operation.

Nano Energy

Heading into the elections, the foremost issue for Israeli voters appeared to be the rising cost of living and expanding gap between rich and poor.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The foremost issues for the new trade representative will be to negotiate trade liberalization deals with Europe and the Pacific Rim region.

The New York Times

One of the foremost issues in astrophysics today is that of the origin of the ultra high energy cosmic rays.

Nuclear Physics B - Proceedings Supplements

The foremost issues of 21st century are challenging demand of electrical energy and to control the emission of Green House Gases (GHG) emissions.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

The former Vice President is quickly developing a reputation for impassioned yet meticulously researched books that tackle the foremost issues of the day.

Huffington Post

One of the foremost issues in genome research policy is allocation of funds and research prioritization [ 17].

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the foremost issue" to clearly signal the most important problem or topic under discussion. It helps prioritize concerns and focus attention effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "the foremost issue" in overly casual contexts; it can sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the main thing" or "the biggest problem" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the foremost issue" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most important or prominent problem, topic, or concern within a particular context. As Ludwig AI pointed out, the phrase is grammatically correct and its use is supported by various sources.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the foremost issue" is a grammatically sound phrase used to highlight the most important concern in a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "the main issue", it adds a level of formality and emphasis suitable for news, scientific, and business contexts. To enhance your writing, use it to clearly prioritize topics, but be mindful of overusing it in casual settings. Consider related phrases such as "the primary issue" to diversify your language. Remember, clarity and audience awareness are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the primary issue

Focuses on the issue being the most important, similar to 'foremost'.

the main concern

Emphasizes the aspect of concern that is most significant.

the central problem

Highlights that the issue is a problem and is the central one.

the key challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty aspect of the issue.

the top priority

Indicates that the issue should receive the most urgent attention.

the most important thing

Shifts focus to the importance of an undefined thing.

the principal matter

Replaces 'issue' with the more formal 'matter'.

the overriding question

Highlights that the issue is a question needing resolution and is the major one.

the dominant theme

Highlights that the issue is a theme that is prevalent.

the preeminent factor

Uses more formal language to emphasize the outstanding influence of an undefined factor.

FAQs

How can I use "the foremost issue" in a sentence?

Use "the foremost issue" to introduce the most important problem or topic. For example, "The foremost issue we need to address is the budget deficit".

What are some alternatives to "the foremost issue"?

You can use alternatives like "the primary issue", "the main concern", or "the key challenge" depending on the context.

Is "the foremost issue" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "the foremost issue" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to clearly emphasize the most important matter. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "the foremost issue" and "the main issue"?

"The foremost issue" and "the main issue" are similar, but "the foremost issue" implies a sense of priority and prominence more strongly than "the main issue".