the issue is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the issue is" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when introducing a subject or idea that will be discussed or elaborated on. For example: "The issue is that the factory has increased its emissions, which is threatening the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The issue is change.

The New York Times

The issue is property.

The Economist

The issue is demographic.

The Economist

The issue is urgent.

The New York Times

The issue is divisive.

The Economist

The issue is complicated.

The New York Times

But the issue is moving.

The New York Times

"The issue is everything again.

The New York Times - Sports

But the issue is nuanced.

The Economist

The issue is gaining urgency.

The New York Times

Sometimes the issue is cost.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the issue is", ensure that the statement that follows is a clear and concise summary of the core problem or topic. Avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid following "the issue is" with a long, rambling explanation. Instead, provide a clear and concise statement of the problem or topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the issue is" serves as an identifying expression, introducing the central topic, problem, or point of discussion. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is frequently used to highlight the core subject matter, as demonstrated across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

24%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the issue is" is a versatile phrase used to introduce the central topic or problem under consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. When writing, ensure the statement following "the issue is" is clear and concise. For more nuanced situations, consider alternatives like "the problem is" or "the key point is".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the problem lies in

Focuses more on the difficulty or challenge inherent in the situation.

the challenge is

Identifies the obstacle that needs to be overcome.

the key point is

Signals the most significant idea or argument.

the main concern is

Highlights what is causing worry or anxiety.

the heart of the matter is

Similar to "the core of the matter is" but potentially more emphatic.

the core of the matter is

Emphasizes the fundamental or most important aspect of the topic.

the real question is

Suggests that previous questions were misleading or irrelevant.

what matters most is

Directly indicates the element of greatest importance.

fundamentally, it's about

Indicates a return to basic principles.

the central question is

Specifically frames the discussion around a key inquiry.

FAQs

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

Use "the issue is" to introduce a problem, topic, or key point. For example, "The issue is climate change and its impact on coastal communities".

What phrases are similar to "the issue is"?

Similar phrases include "the problem is", "the main concern is", and "the key point is".

Is it ever incorrect to use "the issue is"?

While grammatically correct, "the issue is" might be too direct for some contexts. Consider using a more nuanced phrase if the situation requires sensitivity.

What is the difference between "the issue is" and "the problem is"?

While similar, "the issue is" is broader and can refer to any topic. "The problem is" specifically refers to a negative situation needing resolution.