the key issue

USAGE SUMMARY

'the key issue' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used to refer to the most important or main problem or question being discussed. For example, "The key issue of the meeting was how to increase sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That is the key issue.

The New York Times - Sports

Contagion is the key issue.

The New York Times

The key issue is consent.

The New Yorker

The key issue is costs.

The Guardian - Opinion

They achieve; that's the key issue.

The Guardian

Cost is becoming the key issue.

The Guardian

The key issue is royalty payments.

The Guardian - Tech

The key issue, though, is Trident.

The Guardian

The key issue will be security.

The New York Times

The key issue has been water.

The New York Times

The key issue, he said, is valuation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the key issue", ensure it's followed by a concise and clear explanation of what that issue is to avoid ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the key issue" as a placeholder without specifying why it's key. Provide specifics and context to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key issue" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most important or central aspect of a situation, problem, or discussion. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a common and grammatically sound way to pinpoint the primary concern.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key issue" is a versatile phrase used to highlight the most important aspect of a topic. According to Ludwig AI, it's both grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts. While widely accepted, clarity is paramount: always specify why the issue is key. Alternatives like "the central point" or "the crucial factor" can add nuance, but "the key issue" remains a direct and effective way to focus attention on what matters most. Remember to provide supporting evidence and context to enhance its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the determining factor

Focuses on the element that decides an outcome.

the central point

Emphasizes the core element or argument.

the crucial factor

Highlights the importance of a contributing element.

the main concern

Focuses on the worry or anxiety element of the issue.

the overriding consideration

Emphasizes something that takes precedence over other matters.

the underlying problem

Highlights the root cause of a challenge.

the primary focus

Shifts the emphasis to what is being concentrated on.

the fundamental question

Directs attention to an underlying inquiry.

the significant aspect

Broadens the scope to a notable attribute.

the most important thing

Uses simpler language to express the significance.

FAQs

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

You can use "the key issue" to highlight the most important aspect of a situation. For example, "The key issue is funding" or "The key issue revolves around communication".

What's a more formal alternative to "the key issue"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "the central point" or "the crucial factor" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "the key issue" subjective, or can it be objectively determined?

While "the key issue" often represents a perspective, strive for objectivity by providing evidence or reasoning to support why a particular issue is considered the most important.

What's the difference between "the key issue" and "a key issue"?

"The key issue" refers to the single most important issue, while "a key issue" indicates that the item is one of several important issues. The former implies singular importance; the latter, shared importance.