underlying issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underlying issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental problem or concern that is not immediately obvious but affects a situation. Example: "The underlying issue in the negotiation was a lack of trust between the parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Stuff happens.The underlying issue is ages old.

The Economist

"That's the underlying issue".

The New York Times

But the underlying issue is low equity.

The New York Times

The underlying issue is a fight over land.

The Guardian - Opinion

But there is a serious underlying issue here.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These were three facets of one underlying issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

The underlying issue is how much that decline will continue.

The New York Times

The underlying issue is the failure of health and safety management systems.

The Guardian

"There's an underlying issue of trusting professionals to do the best thing for children.

The Guardian

"Once again, the underlying issue is the repressive belief that sex is intrinsically sinful".

The New York Times - Tech

The underlying issue is whether the NHS is spending its existing resources efficiently.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "underlying issue" to introduce a deeper explanation after presenting surface-level observations, showing the connection between the obvious and the less visible problems.

Common error

Avoid using "underlying issue" when referring to a simple or obvious problem. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a less apparent, fundamental cause rather than a superficial symptom.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlying issue" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a fundamental problem or cause that is not immediately apparent but is crucial to understanding a situation. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "underlying issue" is a versatile and grammatically sound term used to denote a fundamental, often unseen, problem or cause. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is commonly employed across various contexts, notably in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure you clearly define the issue to avoid ambiguity. While alternatives like "root cause" or "fundamental problem" exist, "underlying issue" maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal discourse. Remember, the phrase is most impactful when pointing towards a deeper explanation, connecting surface-level observations to their less visible origins. Avoid using it for simple problems; reserve it for those requiring deeper analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

root cause

Focuses specifically on the origin of the problem, emphasizing the point of origin rather than a general problem.

fundamental problem

Emphasizes the basic or essential nature of the issue, suggesting it is a core difficulty.

core problem

Highlights the central or most important issue that needs to be addressed.

central question

Shifts the focus to a key inquiry or point that needs answering, often in a debate or investigation.

key concern

Highlights a primary worry or matter of importance.

hidden problem

Implies the issue is not immediately apparent or easily recognized.

latent issue

Suggests the issue exists but is not yet fully developed or active.

primary challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty or obstacle that needs to be overcome.

major obstacle

Highlights a significant barrier preventing progress or resolution.

basic reason

Focuses on the fundamental explanation or justification for something.

FAQs

How to use "underlying issue" in a sentence?

You can use "underlying issue" to point out a fundamental problem that's not immediately obvious. For example, "The protests reveal an "underlying issue" of economic inequality".

What can I say instead of "underlying issue"?

You can use alternatives like "root cause", "fundamental problem", or "core problem" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "underlying issue" and "surface problem"?

"Underlying issue" refers to the fundamental, often hidden, cause of a problem, while "surface problem" refers to the immediately visible symptoms or effects. Addressing the "underlying issue" usually resolves the "surface problem".

Is it redundant to say "the real underlying issue"?

While not strictly redundant, saying "the real "underlying issue"" can add emphasis. However, ensure it's necessary, as "underlying issue" already implies a fundamental problem. Consider if "real "problem"" or simply ""underlying issue"" is sufficient.