the main issue is whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the main issue is whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a central topic or question that needs to be addressed or resolved. Example: "In the debate about climate change, the main issue is whether we can implement effective solutions in time to make a difference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Costs aside, the main issue is whether the investor believes that there is money to be made in Japan.

The New York Times

"The main issue is whether or not the Roe v. Wade decision's going to be overturned," the vice president announced.

The New York Times - Magazine

The main issue is whether to renovate the pool or build an indoor gymnasium in its spot.

The New York Times

The main issue is whether there is enough "cultural affiliation" so an Indian claim can be established.

The New York Times - Arts

The main issue is whether Rice knew that U.S. intelligence agencies had significant doubts about a claim made by British intelligence that Iraq was seeking uranium in Africa.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"The main issue is whether schools will have space left in September," said Robin Aronow, a schools consultant and the founder of School Search NYC.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

In the interview, however, Mr. Paulson said the main issue was whether it was legal.

The New York Times

The main issue was whether Mr. Modai, who resigned under pressure after having insulted Mr. Peres, would return to the Cabinet.

The New York Times

The main issue was whether the retailer's strategic report complied with the Companies Act 2006 requirement to be balanced and comprehensive.

The Guardian - Business

According to the briefs in the case — and Olson's argument — the main issue was whether the McCain-Feingold law applied to a documentary, presented on video on demand, by a nonprofit corporation.

The New Yorker

The main issue was whether the producers wanted to do a show with time travel.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the main issue is whether", ensure that the "whether" clause clearly presents the alternative possibilities or viewpoints being considered. A clear articulation of these options enhances the phrase's effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "the main issue is whether" followed by a vague or undefined condition. Instead, ensure the clause explicitly presents the opposing options or possibilities to provide clear context and direction for the discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the main issue is whether" functions as an introductory clause that sets up a question or a point of contention. It presents the central focus of a discussion, argument, or analysis, framing it as a decision between two or more possibilities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the main issue is whether" is a versatile phrase used to highlight the central question or point of contention within a discussion or analysis. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. Its usage spans various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific domains. When employing this phrase, ensure the 'whether' clause offers clear alternatives, thereby sharpening the focus and enhancing comprehension. Alternatives include "the key question is whether" or "the primary concern is whether". By avoiding vagueness and providing explicit options, you can effectively leverage this phrase to guide your audience toward the core considerations at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key question is whether

Replaces "main issue" with "key question", emphasizing the importance of the question.

the central question is whether

Substitutes "main issue" with "central question", highlighting the core question.

the primary concern is whether

Changes "main issue" to "primary concern", shifting focus to a worry or concern.

the critical point is whether

Substitutes "main issue" with "critical point", emphasizing a crucial aspect.

the fundamental question is whether

Replaces "main issue" with "fundamental question", indicating a basic question.

the overriding question is whether

Substitutes "main issue" with "overriding question", suggesting a dominant question.

the core problem is whether

Replaces "main issue" with "core problem", focusing on a fundamental difficulty.

the crucial factor is whether

Replaces "main issue" with "crucial factor", emphasizing a decisive factor.

the significant question is whether

Changes "main issue" to "significant question", highlighting an important question.

the essential element is whether

Changes "main issue" to "essential element", highlighting a necessary component.

FAQs

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

Use "the main issue is whether" to introduce a central question or point of contention. For example, "The main issue is whether we can afford the proposed changes".

What's a formal alternative to "the main issue is whether"?

A more formal alternative could be "the primary concern is whether" or "the key question is whether". For example, "The primary concern is whether the data supports this conclusion".

Is it grammatically correct to say, "The main issue is that" instead of "the main issue is whether"?

While "the main issue is that" is grammatically correct, it serves a different purpose. It introduces a statement of fact rather than a question of alternatives. "The main issue is whether" presents a binary choice or consideration.

What other phrases can I use instead of "the main issue is whether"?

Consider using alternatives such as "the central question is whether", "the core problem is whether", or "the critical point is whether" to vary your phrasing.