the sole issue is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the sole issue is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to draw attention to a particular problem or topic that needs to be discussed or addressed. For example, "The sole issue is whether or not we should proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The sole issue is guns and the fact that the rules governing their manufacture, distribution, purchase and use are more lax than those governing cars, food or toys.

The New York Times

Because the sole issue is whether to charge the president after he leaves office, Mr. Ray said he intended to take full advantage of the time until Mr. Clinton left office to make up his mind.

The New York Times

"The sole issue is whether the defendant acted reasonably in light of the prevailing weather conditions to minimize a foreseeable danger," Judge Nadel wrote, later adding that the state "had ample time and opportunity to properly react to the worsening weather conditions and minimize the foreseeable danger of a large windswept beach umbrella".

The New York Times

When there is no dispute as to the charged violation, the sole issue is the determination of the appropriate sanction.

Journal of Criminal Justice

"The sole issue is the unfortunate delay in returning the remains," the statement reads.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For them, the sole issue was financing.

The New York Times - Arts

The sole issue was numbered volume 1, number 1; it was in large pulp format, with 96 pages and was priced at 10 cents.

Wikipedia

Gen. Keith Kerr introduced himself as a homosexual and asked "...why you [Republican candidates] think that American men and women in uniform are not professional enough to serve with gays and lesbians?" Hunter thanked the general for his service and then argued that the sole issue was "unit cohesion," mirroring a statement from former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Wikipedia

Witherspoon's sole issue is immigration.

The New Yorker

For the first time, it seems Iran has trusted the US and Europe's words that they are not seeking regime change and that the sole issue here is the nuclear programme.

The Guardian

May said the sole issue she was considering in the case was whether extradition to the United States "would breach his human rights".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the sole issue is", ensure that it accurately reflects that there are no other significant factors or concerns at play. This phrase emphasizes a singular focus.

Common error

Avoid using "the sole issue is" if there are other contributing factors, even if they are minor. Overstating the singularity can weaken your argument if other relevant issues exist. If there are secondary considerations, acknowledge them before focusing on the primary one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the sole issue is" functions as a declarative statement that singles out a specific problem, question, or consideration as the only one of importance in a given situation. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it is used to focus attention on one particular aspect.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the sole issue is" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for highlighting a single, critical point. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides diverse examples from various sources. While it's essential to ensure that it accurately reflects the exclusivity of the issue, the phrase is versatile enough for news, scientific discussions, and general communication, maintaining a neutral tone suitable for multiple settings. Be mindful not to overstate the singularity of the issue if other contributing factors are present, but overall, it's a valuable tool for focusing attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the only consideration is

Focuses on "consideration" instead of "issue", emphasizing the aspect of thinking about the matter.

the key question is

Replaces "issue" with "question", highlighting the aspect of inquiry and investigation.

the main point is

Emphasizes the core argument or idea, using "point" instead of "issue".

the crucial factor is

Highlights the most important element influencing a situation, using "factor" instead of "issue".

the central concern is

Focuses on what is causing worry or interest, using "concern" instead of "issue".

the real problem is

Highlights a difficulty that needs to be resolved, using "problem" instead of "issue".

the heart of the matter is

Implies getting to the core or essence of something, a more figurative expression.

what truly matters is

Shifts focus to importance or significance instead of directly naming the issue.

the fundamental aspect is

Emphasizes the underlying and basic element, using "aspect" instead of "issue".

it all boils down to

A more colloquial way of saying that something can be simplified to one key element.

FAQs

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

Use "the sole issue is" to emphasize that only one specific problem or question needs to be addressed, for example, "The sole issue is whether we can secure enough funding for the project."

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

A more formal alternative could be "the primary concern is" or "the central question is". These phrases maintain a professional tone while conveying the singular importance of the matter.

Which is correct, "the sole issue is" or "the only issue is"?

Both "the sole issue is" and "the only issue is" are grammatically correct and convey essentially the same meaning. The choice depends on stylistic preference, but "sole" might sound slightly more formal.

What can I say instead of "the sole issue is"?

You can use alternatives like "the only consideration is", "the key question is", or "the main point is" depending on the context.