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C1 noun #500 most common 16 min read

issue

Top 500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips issue in 30 Seconds

Explanation issue in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of an 'issue' as a simple 'problem.' For example, if your computer is not working, you might say, 'I have an issue with my computer.' It is a useful word to use when you want to tell someone that something is wrong. You might also see this word on a magazine cover, like 'The May Issue.' This just means the magazine for the month of May. At this level, don't worry about the more complicated meanings. Just remember that an issue is something you need to fix or a specific magazine you want to read. You can use it in simple sentences like 'What is the issue?' or 'I like this issue of the magazine.' It is a good word to know because it sounds a little more grown-up than just saying 'problem' all the time. When you are at a store or a library, you might hear people use it. Just think of it as a way to talk about things that are not perfect or things that come out every month. It is a very common word, so you will see it often in books and on the internet. Try to use it when you are talking about a small trouble you are having, and people will understand you easily.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'issue' in more ways. You already know it means 'problem' or 'magazine edition,' but now you can use it to talk about topics that people discuss. For example, you might hear about 'environmental issues' like pollution or 'health issues.' This means things that are important for everyone to think about. You can also use the phrase 'have an issue with' to say you don't like something or someone's behavior. For example, 'I have an issue with the noise in this office.' This is a polite way to complain. You will also see 'issue' used in more formal places, like at school or in a simple news report. It's a step up from 'problem' because it can describe bigger things that affect many people. When you read a magazine, you can talk about the 'current issue' (the one in the shops now) or a 'back issue' (an old one). Using 'issue' correctly makes your English sound more natural. Try to notice when people use 'issue' instead of 'problem.' Usually, it's when the problem is a bit more serious or when it's something people are talking about in the news. It's a very helpful word for describing the world around you in a simple but clear way.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'issue' in both professional and social contexts. You understand that an 'issue' is often a topic of public debate, such as 'the issue of global warming' or 'the issue of immigration.' At this level, you can use 'issue' to describe complex problems that don't have a single easy answer. You can also use it more precisely in business settings. For example, you might 'raise an issue' in a meeting, which means you bring up a problem for everyone to discuss. You also know common phrases like 'at issue,' which means the thing being discussed. For instance, 'The point at issue is the cost of the project.' You are also becoming aware of 'issue' as a verb, meaning to give something out officially, like 'The police issued a warning.' This is a more formal use that you will see in news reports or official documents. You should also be able to distinguish between 'issue' and 'problem.' While they can be synonyms, 'issue' often feels more objective and less personal. If you say 'We have some technical issues,' it sounds like a professional challenge to be solved. If you say 'We have some technical problems,' it might sound a bit more negative. Using 'issue' helps you maintain a professional tone in your writing and speaking.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'issue' with greater nuance and in more complex grammatical structures. You should be familiar with various collocations, such as 'contentious issue,' 'pressing issue,' and 'underlying issue.' These adjectives help you describe the nature of a problem more accurately. For example, a 'contentious issue' is one that people disagree about strongly. You can also use 'issue' in the sense of 'distribution' or 'official release' more confidently. You might talk about the 'issue of shares' in a company or the 'issue of a new passport.' At this level, you should also be comfortable with the phrase 'take issue with,' which is a formal way to express disagreement. For example, 'I take issue with the suggestion that we didn't work hard enough.' This shows a high level of linguistic sophistication. You are also able to use 'issue' to describe personal or psychological matters, such as 'trust issues' or 'family issues.' You understand that in these cases, 'issue' refers to a recurring pattern of difficulty. Your ability to switch between the different meanings of 'issue'—from a magazine edition to a legal distribution to a social debate—demonstrates your growing mastery of the English language. You can use the word to structure arguments in essays, identifying the 'key issues' and discussing them in detail.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the versatility and precision of the word 'issue.' You can use it to navigate complex academic, legal, and professional discourses. You understand the subtle difference between 'issue' and its synonyms like 'matter,' 'concern,' or 'topic.' For you, an 'issue' is not just a problem; it is a point of contention that requires careful analysis and debate. You are familiar with formal phrases like 'the point at issue' and 'to join issue,' and you can use them correctly in a legal or highly formal context. You also understand the historical and legal meaning of 'issue' as 'offspring,' though you know to use it only in specific contexts like inheritance law. In your writing, you use 'issue' to frame sophisticated arguments, often pairing it with precise adjectives like 'systemic,' 'fundamental,' or 'ancillary.' You might discuss 'the systemic issues within the healthcare system' or 'an ancillary issue that arose during the negotiations.' You are also aware of the word's use in technology, specifically in 'issue tracking' for software development. Your use of 'issue' is characterized by its accuracy and its ability to convey complex ideas clearly. You can discuss the 'issue of a statement' by a high-ranking official and analyze the 'burning issues' of the day with equal ease. This level of mastery allows you to use 'issue' as a tool for precise communication in any setting.

At the C2 level, your command of the word 'issue' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You use the word with effortless precision, moving between its various meanings—topic of debate, publication edition, official distribution, and legal offspring—with complete confidence. You are sensitive to the subtle connotations that 'issue' carries in different registers. In a legal context, you understand the implications of 'dying without issue' and can interpret complex clauses involving the 'issue of securities.' In academic discourse, you use 'issue' to delineate the boundaries of a debate, often using it to introduce a 'non-issue' or to 'sidestep an issue' that is not central to your argument. You are also a master of the idiomatic uses of the word, such as 'to make an issue of something' or 'to take issue with' a specific premise in a philosophical debate. Your vocabulary is rich with collocations, and you can choose the perfect adjective to qualify 'issue' in any situation, whether it's a 'perennial issue,' a 'thorny issue,' or a 'moot issue.' You also appreciate the etymological roots of the word, understanding how its meaning has evolved from the Latin 'exitus' (a going out) to its modern multifaceted forms. For you, 'issue' is a versatile and indispensable part of your linguistic toolkit, allowing you to express the finest shades of meaning in both speech and writing. You can navigate the most complex discussions, using 'issue' to bring clarity and structure to your thoughts.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

issue in 30 Seconds

An issue is a topic or problem that is a subject of discussion or debate, often in a public or professional context.
It also refers to a specific edition of a magazine or newspaper, such as the 'current issue' or 'back issues'.
The word can mean the formal act of providing or distributing something, like the 'issue of a new passport'.
In legal terms, 'issue' refers to a person's children or descendants, though this is less common in daily speech.

The word issue is a versatile and essential term in the English language, particularly at the C1 level where nuance is paramount. At its core, an issue is a subject or problem that people are thinking and talking about. However, unlike a simple 'problem,' an issue often implies a level of public debate, disagreement, or complexity. When we speak of 'social issues' or 'political issues,' we are referring to broad topics that affect many people and require collective resolution. The word carries a weight of importance; you wouldn't usually call a broken shoelace an 'issue' unless it was part of a larger systemic failure in shoelace manufacturing. In professional environments, 'issue' is frequently used as a softer, more professional synonym for 'problem.' Instead of saying 'We have a big problem with the server,' a manager might say 'There is a technical issue with the server,' which sounds more objective and less alarmist.

The Publication Sense: In the world of media and publishing, an issue refers to a specific edition of a magazine, newspaper, or journal. For example, 'the January issue of Vogue' refers to the specific physical or digital copy released in that month. This usage stems from the idea of the publication being 'issued' or sent out to the public.

The government is struggling to address the issue of rising inflation without slowing down economic growth.

Beyond these common uses, 'issue' has a specific legal meaning referring to a person's offspring or children. While this is rare in daily conversation, you will encounter it in wills, trusts, and historical documents. For instance, 'dying without issue' means dying without having any children. Furthermore, 'issue' can refer to the act of officially giving something out, such as the 'issue of new passports' or the 'issue of shares' in a company. This sense emphasizes the formal process of distribution. In modern technology, particularly in software development, an 'issue' is a specific record in a tracking system that describes a bug, a feature request, or a task to be completed. Platforms like GitHub have popularized this usage, making 'opening an issue' a standard part of the coder's vocabulary.

The Distribution Sense: This refers to the formal act of providing something. In a military context, soldiers are given an 'issue' of boots and uniforms. In finance, the 'issue' of bonds is a way for a government to raise money.

I have been collecting every issue of this scientific journal since 1995.

The Legal Sense: Used in inheritance law to mean children or descendants. If a person dies 'without issue,' their estate may be distributed differently than if they had children.

The central issue in the trial was whether the defendant acted in self-defense.

The bank announced a new issue of credit cards with enhanced security features.

Please read the latest issue of the company newsletter for more details.

In summary, 'issue' is a multi-faceted word that bridges the gap between everyday problems and high-level academic or legal discourse. Its ability to represent a topic of debate, a physical publication, and a formal act of distribution makes it one of the most hardworking nouns in the English language. Understanding its various shades of meaning allows a speaker to navigate professional, academic, and social situations with greater precision and sophistication. Whether you are discussing the 'burning issues' of the day or simply looking for the 'back issue' of a magazine, this word provides the necessary framework for clear communication.

Using 'issue' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical patterns and the specific contexts in which it appears. As a countable noun, it can be singular or plural. When referring to a problem or topic, it often follows verbs like 'address,' 'resolve,' 'tackle,' or 'ignore.' For example, 'The committee met to address the issue of workplace safety.' Here, 'issue' functions as the object of the verb 'address,' indicating the focus of the meeting. In more informal contexts, you might hear 'I have an issue with that,' where 'issue' means a personal disagreement or a problem you have with a specific situation or person. This construction 'have an issue with' is very common in spoken English and can range from a minor annoyance to a serious grievance.

Common Verb Pairings: Verbs that frequently precede 'issue' include: raise (to bring up a topic), avoid (to not talk about it), sidestep (to avoid dealing with it), and clarify (to make it clearer).

She raised an important issue during the Q&A session that no one else had considered.

When 'issue' refers to a publication, it is often used with the preposition 'of.' You might talk about 'the current issue of the magazine' or 'the previous issue.' In this context, it is almost always countable. You can say 'I have three issues of National Geographic on my desk.' If you are using 'issue' to mean the act of giving something out, it is often followed by 'of' and then the item being distributed. For example, 'the issue of supplies to the refugees' or 'the issue of a new policy.' In these cases, it can sometimes feel more like an uncountable process, but it is still technically a countable noun referring to the specific instance of distribution.

Prepositional Phrases: 'At issue' is a formal phrase meaning 'under discussion' or 'in dispute.' For example: 'The point at issue is whether the contract was breached.'

The issue at hand is how to allocate the remaining budget before the end of the year.

In academic writing, 'issue' is often paired with adjectives that specify the type of problem being discussed. Common pairings include 'contentious issue,' 'complex issue,' 'fundamental issue,' and 'underlying issue.' These adjectives help to categorize the nature of the debate. For example, a 'contentious issue' is one that causes a lot of disagreement, while an 'underlying issue' is a hidden cause of a more visible problem. Using these collocations correctly is a hallmark of C1-level proficiency. Additionally, the phrase 'take issue with' is a sophisticated way to say you disagree with something. 'I take issue with your assertion that the project was a failure' is much more formal and precise than 'I don't agree with you.'

Adjective Collocations: Pressing issue (urgent), non-issue (something not important), side issue (a secondary topic), and systemic issue (related to the whole system).

Climate change is perhaps the most pressing issue facing our generation today.

The lawyer argued that the client's past was a side issue and irrelevant to the current case.

Finally, consider the phrase 'make an issue of something.' This means to treat something as important or to complain about it, often when it might not be necessary. 'I didn't want to make an issue of his lateness, so I said nothing.' This highlights the social aspect of the word, where choosing to label something as an 'issue' is a conscious act of bringing it into the sphere of discussion or conflict. By mastering these patterns, you can use 'issue' to articulate complex thoughts and navigate various social and professional dynamics with ease.

The word 'issue' is ubiquitous in modern life, appearing in contexts ranging from the evening news to the fine print of a legal contract. In the realm of journalism and media, 'issue' is the standard term for the topics that dominate the public discourse. You will hear news anchors talk about 'the issues that matter to voters' or 'the key issues in the upcoming election.' In this context, it refers to policy areas like healthcare, education, or the economy. It is also the word used to describe the physical copies of the very magazines and newspapers that report these stories. A librarian might ask if you are looking for the 'current issue' or a 'back issue' of a periodical. This dual presence in media—both as the subject of the news and the medium of the news—makes it a central term in communications.

In the Corporate World: In business meetings, 'issue' is the preferred term for problems. It sounds more professional and analytical. You'll hear phrases like 'Let's table this issue for now' or 'We need to identify the root cause of this issue.'

The CEO addressed the issue of declining productivity in her quarterly address to the staff.

In legal and governmental settings, 'issue' takes on a more formal, procedural tone. You might hear about the 'issue of a warrant' by a judge or the 'issue of a statement' by a government spokesperson. In these cases, it refers to the official act of releasing or authorizing something. In the courtroom, a judge might ask the lawyers to focus on 'the issue at hand,' meaning the specific legal question that needs to be decided. This usage is precise and technical, emphasizing the word's role in formal systems. Furthermore, in the world of finance, 'issue' is used when companies or governments release new stocks or bonds to the public. An 'initial public offering' is essentially a large-scale 'issue' of shares.

In Technology and Software: Software developers 'open issues' to track bugs. If an app isn't working, a developer might say, 'I've logged that as an issue in the system.'

The latest software update was designed specifically to fix several security issues.

In everyday social interactions, 'issue' is often used to describe personal difficulties or psychological hurdles. Phrases like 'trust issues' or 'commitment issues' have become common in popular psychology and casual conversation. Here, the word describes a recurring pattern of behavior or a deep-seated emotional problem. While some might find this usage a bit informal or even cliché, it is a significant part of how people talk about their lives today. Whether it's a 'technical issue' with a laptop, a 'social issue' discussed in a university seminar, or a 'personal issue' shared with a friend, the word 'issue' provides a versatile way to categorize and discuss the various challenges we face.

In Public Administration: Governments 'issue' documents. You might hear about the 'issue of birth certificates' or the 'issue of driving licenses' at a local government office.

There was an issue with the delivery, so the package arrived two days late.

The candidate focused her speech on the issue of affordable housing.

Ultimately, 'issue' is a word that helps us organize our world. It allows us to take a messy reality and break it down into discrete topics that can be analyzed, debated, and hopefully, resolved. Its prevalence in so many different fields—from law and finance to tech and psychology—is a testament to its utility. By paying attention to where and how you hear 'issue,' you can gain a deeper understanding of the structures and concerns of the society around you.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 'issue' is using it interchangeably with 'problem' in every situation. While they are often synonyms, 'issue' is generally more formal and broader. For instance, you wouldn't say 'I have an issue with my math homework' if you just can't find the answer; 'problem' is better there. 'Issue' suggests a topic for discussion or a systemic difficulty. Another frequent error involves the preposition. Learners often say 'issue about' when 'issue of' or 'issue with' is more appropriate. For example, 'the issue of poverty' is correct, whereas 'the issue about poverty' sounds slightly off to a native speaker. Similarly, 'I have an issue with the new rules' is correct, but 'I have an issue about the new rules' is less common.

Issue vs. Subject: A 'subject' is what you are talking about; an 'issue' is a subject that involves some kind of problem or disagreement. You can't say 'The issue of the book is history'—it should be 'The subject of the book is history.'

Incorrect: We need to talk about the issue of the movie. Correct: We need to talk about the subject of the movie.

Another area of confusion is the publication sense of the word. Some learners confuse 'issue' with 'edition.' While they are related, 'issue' is typically used for periodicals (magazines, journals) that come out regularly, while 'edition' is used for books. You would talk about the 'second edition' of a textbook, but the 'September issue' of a magazine. Using 'issue' for a book can sound strange. Additionally, the phrase 'take issue with' is sometimes misused. It means to disagree with a specific point or person, not just to 'have a problem' in a general sense. If you 'take issue with' a statement, you are prepared to argue against it. It is a formal, confrontational (but polite) stance.

Countability Errors: Learners sometimes treat 'issue' as uncountable. Remember, you can have 'one issue' or 'many issues.' You cannot say 'There is too much issue here.'

Incorrect: There is a lot of issue in the city. Correct: There are many issues in the city.

The legal sense of 'issue' meaning 'offspring' is another trap. Because it's so rare in modern English, using it in a casual conversation (e.g., 'Do you have any issue?') will likely lead to confusion, as people will think you are asking if they have any problems. This sense should be reserved for legal documents or very formal historical contexts. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'at issue.' It means 'in dispute' or 'being discussed.' It is often confused with 'in issue,' which is much less common and usually refers to something being a point of legal contention. Stick to 'at issue' for general formal use. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can use 'issue' with the precision and confidence of a high-level speaker.

Issue vs. Problem: A problem is something that needs to be fixed. An issue is something that needs to be discussed or decided. A flat tire is a problem. Whether to raise taxes is an issue.

The issue of whether to build the new highway divided the community.

The journalist refused to drop the issue until she got a straight answer from the mayor.

By keeping these distinctions in mind, you will avoid the subtle errors that can mark a speaker as less than proficient. 'Issue' is a powerful word, but its power comes from its precise application in the right contexts.

To truly master 'issue,' it is helpful to understand the words that surround it in the semantic web. Depending on the context, several alternatives might be more precise. If you are talking about a difficult situation that needs solving, 'problem' is the most direct synonym. However, 'challenge' is often used in business to put a more positive spin on a problem. If the 'issue' is something people are worried about, 'concern' might be a better choice. For example, 'The main concern for parents is the quality of education.' This shifts the focus from the topic itself to the emotional or practical impact it has on people. In academic or formal contexts, 'matter' or 'topic' can often replace 'issue' when referring to a subject of discussion.

Issue vs. Concern: An 'issue' is a topic of debate; a 'concern' is something that causes worry. You discuss an issue, but you address a concern.

The environmental issue became a major concern for the local residents.

When 'issue' refers to a publication, 'edition' or 'number' are common alternatives. As mentioned before, 'edition' is more common for books, while 'number' is often used for scholarly journals (e.g., 'Volume 4, Number 2'). In the context of giving something out, 'distribution,' 'release,' or 'provision' can be used. For instance, 'the release of new software' or 'the distribution of aid.' These words often emphasize the process more than the result. If you are using 'issue' to mean a disagreement, 'dispute,' 'contention,' or 'conflict' might be more descriptive. 'The dispute over the border' is more specific than 'the issue over the border,' as it clearly indicates a fight or legal battle.

Issue vs. Matter: 'Matter' is very broad and can refer to any physical substance or any subject. 'Issue' is narrower, usually implying a problem or a point of debate.

It is a matter of great importance that we resolve this issue immediately.

In the legal sense of offspring, 'descendants' or 'progeny' are more modern alternatives, though they are also quite formal. In the context of software, 'bug' or 'ticket' are common informal synonyms for 'issue.' A developer might say, 'I'm working on ticket #402,' which refers to a specific issue in their tracking system. Understanding these synonyms and their specific registers allows you to vary your language and choose the word that best fits your intended meaning and the level of formality required. By comparing 'issue' with its peers, you gain a clearer picture of its unique place in the English lexicon.

Issue vs. Topic: A 'topic' is a general area of interest. An 'issue' is a specific point within that topic that causes debate. 'Education' is a topic; 'school funding' is an issue.

The seminar covered various topics, but the issue of ethics was the most debated.

The main issue with the proposal is its lack of clear financial projections.

By exploring these alternatives, you can see that 'issue' is often the 'Goldilocks' word—not too specific, not too general, and just formal enough for most professional and academic situations. Mastering its use alongside these synonyms will significantly enhance your expressive range.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The legal sense of 'issue' meaning 'children' comes from the idea of offspring 'going out' or 'emanating' from their parents. It's the same logic as a magazine 'going out' to the public!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɪʃ.uː/ or /ˈɪs.juː/

US /ˈɪʃ.uː/

The stress is on the first syllable: IS-sue.

Rhymes With

tissue miss you kiss you bless you menu venue value rescue

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 's' as a hard 'z' sound.
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Confusing the 'sh' and 's-y' pronunciations in mixed company.
Mispronouncing the final 'ue' as a short 'u' sound.
Omiting the 'y' sound in the British 'iss-yoo' version.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common, but its multiple meanings in academic or legal texts can be tricky.

Writing 4/5

Using the correct collocations and prepositions (issue of/with) requires care.

Speaking 3/5

It's a very useful word for professional and social interactions.

Listening 3/5

You need to distinguish between the 'problem' sense and the 'publication' sense based on context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

problem subject magazine give child

Learn Next

controversy dilemma periodical descendant distribution

Advanced

contentious systemic ancillary progeny moot

Grammar to Know

Countable Nouns

I have two issues (not 'much issue').

Prepositional Phrases

The issue of climate change (not 'about').

Verb-Noun Collocation

To address an issue (formal).

Passive Voice with Verbs

A warning was issued by the authorities.

Idiomatic Structures

To take issue with someone (meaning to disagree).

Examples by Level

I have an issue with my phone.

J'ai un problème avec mon téléphone.

Here, 'issue' is a countable noun meaning 'problem'.

This is the new issue of the magazine.

C'est le nouveau numéro du magazine.

In this context, 'issue' refers to a specific edition.

What is the issue?

Quel est le problème ?

A simple question using 'issue' as a synonym for 'problem'.

I like the May issue.

J'aime le numéro de mai.

Refers to a specific monthly edition.

There is a small issue.

Il y a un petit problème.

Using 'small' to describe the importance of the issue.

He has an issue with the car.

Il a un problème avec la voiture.

Common structure: have an issue with [something].

Read the latest issue.

Lisez le dernier numéro.

'Latest' means the most recent one.

It is not a big issue.

Ce n'est pas un gros problème.

Negation used to downplay a problem.

Pollution is a big issue today.

La pollution est un grand problème aujourd'hui.

'Issue' here refers to a general topic of concern.

I have an issue with the loud music.

J'ai un problème avec la musique forte.

Expressing a personal complaint or dislike.

We need to talk about this issue.

Nous devons parler de ce problème.

'Talk about' is a common verb phrase used with 'issue'.

The magazine has a special issue on travel.

Le magazine a un numéro spécial sur les voyages.

'On travel' specifies the topic of the edition.

Health issues are important.

Les problèmes de santé sont importants.

Plural form used for a category of problems.

She has some personal issues.

Elle a quelques problèmes personnels.

'Personal issues' is a common way to refer to private problems.

Is there an issue with the internet?

Y a-t-il un problème avec Internet ?

A common question in a modern environment.

The teacher discussed the issue of bullying.

Le professeur a discuté du problème du harcèlement.

'The issue of [topic]' is a standard academic structure.

The government must address the issue of poverty.

Le gouvernement doit s'attaquer au problème de la pauvreté.

'Address' is a formal verb often used with 'issue'.

I'd like to raise an issue at the meeting.

J'aimerais soulever un problème lors de la réunion.

'Raise an issue' means to bring it up for discussion.

The police issued a statement about the accident.

La police a publié un communiqué sur l'accident.

Here, 'issued' is a verb meaning to give out officially.

The point at issue is the budget.

Le point en question est le budget.

'At issue' means the main thing being discussed.

They are having some technical issues with the website.

Ils ont des problèmes techniques avec le site web.

'Technical issues' is a very common professional collocation.

This issue of the journal contains several interesting articles.

Ce numéro de la revue contient plusieurs articles intéressants.

Refers to a specific edition of a scholarly publication.

We should not ignore this issue any longer.

Nous ne devrions plus ignorer ce problème.

'Ignore' is the opposite of 'address' or 'tackle'.

There are many social issues that need to be resolved.

Il y a de nombreux problèmes sociaux qui doivent être résolus.

'Social issues' refers to broad societal problems.

The environmental impact of the project is a contentious issue.

L'impact environnemental du projet est une question controversée.

'Contentious issue' means one that causes a lot of disagreement.

I take issue with your claim that the data is inaccurate.

Je conteste votre affirmation selon laquelle les données sont inexactes.

'Take issue with' is a formal way to express disagreement.

The company announced a new issue of shares to raise capital.

La société a annoncé une nouvelle émission d'actions pour lever des capitaux.

In finance, 'issue' refers to the release of new stocks.

We need to tackle the underlying issue, not just the symptoms.

Nous devons nous attaquer au problème sous-jacent, pas seulement aux symptômes.

'Underlying issue' refers to the hidden, root cause.

The lawyer focused on the central issue of the case.

L'avocat s'est concentré sur la question centrale de l'affaire.

'Central issue' is the most important point in a legal case.

She has struggled with commitment issues for many years.

Elle lutte contre des problèmes d'engagement depuis de nombreuses années.

Refers to a recurring psychological difficulty.

The magazine's anniversary issue was a huge success.

Le numéro d'anniversaire du magazine a été un énorme succès.

'Anniversary issue' is a specific type of special edition.

Don't make an issue of it; it was just a simple mistake.

N'en fais pas toute une histoire ; c'était juste une simple erreur.

'Make an issue of' means to treat something as more important than it is.

The ethical implications of AI are a pressing issue for modern society.

Les implications éthiques de l'IA sont une question pressante pour la société moderne.

'Pressing issue' means an urgent problem that needs immediate attention.

The judge ruled that the defendant's past was a side issue.

Le juge a statué que le passé du défendeur était une question secondaire.

'Side issue' is a topic that is not central to the main discussion.

The systemic issues within the organization led to its eventual collapse.

Les problèmes systémiques au sein de l'organisation ont conduit à son effondrement final.

'Systemic issues' are problems that affect the entire system.

He died without issue, so his estate passed to his nephew.

Il est mort sans descendance, donc ses biens sont passés à son neveu.

In legal contexts, 'issue' means children or descendants.

The committee sidestepped the issue of funding during the meeting.

Le comité a contourné la question du financement pendant la réunion.

'Sidestep' means to avoid dealing with an issue directly.

The publication of the report brought several long-standing issues to light.

La publication du rapport a mis en lumière plusieurs problèmes de longue date.

'Bring to light' means to make something known that was hidden.

The issue of a new warrant was necessary to proceed with the search.

La délivrance d'un nouveau mandat était nécessaire pour procéder à la perquisition.

Here, 'issue' is a noun meaning the official act of giving something out.

We must join issue on the fundamental principles of this agreement.

Nous devons engager le débat sur les principes fondamentaux de cet accord.

'Join issue' is a formal phrase meaning to take up a challenge or enter into a debate.

The perennial issue of wealth inequality continues to plague global economies.

Le problème perpétuel de l'inégalité des richesses continue de tourmenter les économies mondiales.

'Perennial issue' refers to a problem that lasts for a very long time or recurs frequently.

The debate was characterized by a tendency to conflate several distinct issues.

Le débat a été caractérisé par une tendance à confondre plusieurs questions distinctes.

'Conflate' means to combine two or more things into one.

The legal team argued that the procedural errors rendered the issue moot.

L'équipe juridique a soutenu que les erreurs de procédure rendaient la question sans objet.

A 'moot issue' is one that is no longer relevant or has no practical significance.

The issue of new securities was met with considerable skepticism from investors.

L'émission de nouveaux titres a été accueillie avec un scepticisme considérable de la part des investisseurs.

In finance, 'issue' refers to the formal release of financial instruments.

She has a remarkable ability to cut through the noise and identify the core issue.

Elle a une capacité remarquable à faire abstraction du bruit et à identifier le problème central.

'Core issue' is the most fundamental part of a problem.

The historian's latest work explores the issue of national identity in the post-war era.

Le dernier ouvrage de l'historien explore la question de l'identité nationale dans l'après-guerre.

'Explore the issue' is a common academic phrase.

The government's failure to address the issue of climate change is a dereliction of duty.

L'incapacité du gouvernement à s'attaquer au problème du changement climatique est un manquement au devoir.

'Dereliction of duty' is a very formal way to say someone failed to do their job.

The point at issue is not whether the policy is popular, but whether it is effective.

Le point en question n'est pas de savoir si la politique est populaire, mais si elle est efficace.

'At issue' is used to define the specific focus of a debate.

Synonyms

problem matter concern topic subject dispute

Antonyms

solution resolution agreement

Common Collocations

social issue

pressing issue

technical issue

latest issue

address an issue

contentious issue

underlying issue

back issue

take issue with

at issue

Common Phrases

make an issue of

— To treat something as important or to complain about it, often unnecessarily.

I didn't want to make an issue of his lateness.

have an issue with

— To have a problem with something or someone, or to disagree with them.

I have an issue with the way he speaks to his staff.

the issue at hand

— The specific topic or problem that is currently being discussed.

Let's focus on the issue at hand and not get distracted.

a non-issue

— Something that is not a problem or is not worth discussing.

His past mistakes are a non-issue in this election.

side issue

— A topic that is related to the main subject but is not the most important part.

The cost is a side issue; the main concern is safety.

burning issue

— A very important and urgent topic that everyone is talking about.

Education reform is a burning issue in this country.

join issue

— To take up a challenge or enter into a formal debate on a specific point.

The two scientists joined issue on the theory of evolution.

in issue

— Under discussion or in dispute, particularly in a legal context.

The facts in issue were clearly presented to the jury.

standard issue

— Something that is given to everyone in a group, especially in the military.

These boots are standard issue for all new recruits.

without issue

— Without having any children (used in legal or formal contexts).

The nobleman died without issue, and his title became extinct.

Often Confused With

issue vs problem

'Problem' is more direct and often personal; 'issue' is broader and more formal.

issue vs subject

A 'subject' is just a topic; an 'issue' is a topic that involves debate or difficulty.

issue vs edition

'Edition' is for books; 'issue' is for magazines and journals.

Idioms & Expressions

"take issue with"

— To disagree strongly with something that someone has said or done.

I take issue with the idea that women are less capable than men.

formal

"make an issue of something"

— To turn something into a problem or a subject of debate when it might not be necessary.

Please don't make an issue of the fact that I'm five minutes late.

neutral

"at issue"

— Under discussion; the most important part of what is being discussed.

The real point at issue is how we are going to pay for this.

formal

"die without issue"

— To die without having any children.

The property was sold because the owner died without issue.

legal

"join issue with someone"

— To start an argument or a formal debate with someone about a specific point.

I would like to join issue with the previous speaker on this point.

formal

"force the issue"

— To do something that makes it necessary for a decision to be made or a problem to be dealt with.

We didn't want to force the issue, but we needed an answer by Friday.

neutral

"cloud the issue"

— To make a topic or problem more difficult to understand by introducing irrelevant information.

Stop bringing up old arguments; you're just clouding the issue.

neutral

"dodge the issue"

— To avoid talking about or dealing with a difficult problem.

The politician tried to dodge the issue of tax increases.

neutral

"confuse the issue"

— To make a situation or topic harder to understand.

Adding more data now will only confuse the issue.

neutral

"the issue of the day"

— The most important topic that people are talking about at a particular time.

Economic stability is the issue of the day.

neutral

Easily Confused

issue vs problem

Both mean something is wrong.

A problem is something that needs a solution. An issue is a topic for discussion or a systemic difficulty.

I have a problem with my car (it won't start). We need to discuss the issue of car safety (a general topic).

issue vs subject

Both refer to what is being talked about.

A subject is neutral. An issue implies disagreement or a problem.

The subject of the book is birds. The issue of bird conservation is debated.

issue vs edition

Both refer to versions of a publication.

Use 'edition' for books and 'issue' for magazines/journals.

This is the third edition of the textbook. This is the July issue of the magazine.

issue vs matter

Both are formal words for a topic.

'Matter' is broader and can be any situation. 'Issue' is more specific to debate or problems.

It's a matter of time. It's an issue of fairness.

issue vs concern

Both can mean a topic of interest.

'Concern' emphasizes worry or personal involvement. 'Issue' emphasizes the topic itself.

My concern is your health. The issue is the cost of healthcare.

Sentence Patterns

I have an issue with [noun].

I have an issue with my computer.

[Noun] is a big issue.

Pollution is a big issue.

We need to address the issue of [noun].

We need to address the issue of poverty.

I take issue with [statement/person].

I take issue with your conclusion.

The point at issue is [noun/clause].

The point at issue is whether we can afford it.

The [adjective] issue of [noun]...

The systemic issue of corruption...

To join issue with [person] on [topic].

He joined issue with the professor on the theory's validity.

Rendered the issue moot.

The new evidence rendered the issue moot.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in news, business, and academic contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'issue' for books. → Use 'edition' for books.
'Issue' is specifically for periodicals like magazines and journals. Books have editions.
Saying 'issue about'. → Say 'issue of' or 'issue with'.
While 'about' is sometimes understood, 'of' (for topics) and 'with' (for problems) are the standard prepositions.
Treating 'issue' as uncountable. → Use 'many issues' or 'a lot of issues'.
'Issue' is a countable noun. You cannot say 'There is too much issue here.'
Using 'issue' as a verb for 'having a problem'. → Say 'I have an issue' or 'The car has an issue'.
The verb 'issue' means to give something out, not to experience a problem.
Confusing 'issue' with 'subject'. → Use 'subject' for neutral topics and 'issue' for topics involving debate.
A 'subject' is what something is about. An 'issue' is a subject that people are arguing about or that causes trouble.

Tips

Use 'Issue' for Objectivity

In academic writing, use 'issue' instead of 'problem' to maintain a neutral, objective tone. It suggests you are analyzing a topic rather than just complaining about it.

Distinguish from 'Edition'

Remember to use 'issue' for magazines and 'edition' for books. Saying 'the third issue of this novel' sounds incorrect to native speakers.

Polite Disagreement

Use 'I take issue with...' to disagree in a formal setting. It sounds more sophisticated and less aggressive than 'I think you're wrong.'

Count Your Issues

Always treat 'issue' as a countable noun. Use 'many' or 'several' instead of 'much' when referring to multiple problems or topics.

Business Euphemism

In corporate environments, 'issue' is often used as a euphemism for 'problem.' It sounds more like a challenge to be managed than a failure.

Don't Make an Issue

The phrase 'make an issue of something' is great for social situations where you want to tell someone not to overreact to a small mistake.

Software Issues

In tech, 'issue' is the standard term for bugs. If you're reporting a problem with an app, calling it an 'issue' is the correct terminology.

Legal Descendants

Be aware of the 'offspring' meaning in formal documents, but avoid using it in casual speech to prevent confusion.

Pressing Issues

Pair 'issue' with 'pressing' to describe something urgent. This is a high-level collocation that will improve your writing and speaking.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of an 'ISSUE' as something that 'IS' 'SUE-ing' for your attention. Whether it's a problem, a magazine, or a legal child, it's something that has 'come out' and needs to be dealt with.

Visual Association

Imagine a magazine 'coming out' of a printer. Now imagine a problem 'coming out' of a conversation. Both are 'issues' because they have emerged or been sent out.

Word Web

problem topic magazine edition distribution offspring debate software bug

Challenge

Try to write a paragraph that uses 'issue' in three different senses: as a problem, as a publication, and as a verb meaning to give out.

Word Origin

The word 'issue' comes from the Old French word 'issue,' which is the feminine past participle of 'issir,' meaning 'to go out.' This, in turn, comes from the Latin 'exire' (ex- 'out' + ire 'go').

Original meaning: The original meaning in English (around the 13th century) was 'a way out' or 'an exit.'

Indo-European (Latin -> Romance -> English).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'issue' to describe people's personal lives (e.g., 'she has issues'). It can sound dismissive or judgmental if not used with empathy.

In the US and UK, 'issue' is the standard word for political topics. In business, it's the 'polite' way to say something is wrong.

The phrase 'the issue at hand' is used in countless legal and political dramas. Magazines like 'The New Yorker' or 'Time' are often cited by their 'issue date'. In Shakespearean English, 'issue' frequently refers to children or results.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Politics

key issues
campaign issues
social issues
address the issue

Business

technical issue
raise an issue
resolve the issue
table the issue

Publishing

latest issue
back issue
current issue
special issue

Legal

the point at issue
die without issue
issue a warrant
facts in issue

Personal Life

have an issue with
personal issues
trust issues
make an issue of

Conversation Starters

"What do you think is the most pressing issue facing our city right now?"

"Have you seen the latest issue of that magazine we were talking about?"

"Do you ever have an issue with the technology you use for work?"

"How do you usually address an issue when you disagree with a colleague?"

"Is there a social issue that you feel particularly passionate about?"

Journal Prompts

Reflect on a time when you had to address a difficult issue with a friend or family member. How did you handle it?

What is a 'burning issue' in your field of study or work, and what are the different perspectives on it?

Describe a magazine or journal that you read regularly. What was the most interesting article in the last issue?

Think about a systemic issue in society. What do you think are the root causes, and how could it be resolved?

Write about a time when you 'took issue' with something you read or heard. Why did you disagree?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'issue' can be a verb meaning to officially give something out or publish it. For example, 'The government issued a new law' or 'The bank issues credit cards.' It is a formal verb used in official contexts.

While often used as synonyms, 'issue' is more formal and usually refers to a topic of debate or a systemic difficulty. 'Problem' is more direct and often refers to a specific thing that is broken or needs an immediate solution. You 'solve' a problem, but you 'address' or 'resolve' an issue.

You should only use 'issue' to mean children in very formal legal contexts, such as in a will or a trust document. In everyday conversation, people will think you are talking about problems if you use 'issue' this way. For example, 'He died without issue' is a legal phrase.

In almost all its meanings, 'issue' is a countable noun. You can have one issue, two issues, or many issues. You should not say 'too much issue'; instead, say 'too many issues' or 'a lot of issues.'

This is a formal idiom meaning to disagree with something or someone. If you 'take issue with' a statement, you are saying that you think it is wrong and you are ready to argue against it. It is a polite but firm way to express disagreement.

A 'back issue' is an old edition of a magazine or newspaper. If you are looking for an article from three months ago, you would ask the library for the 'back issues' of that publication. The 'current issue' is the one that is out right now.

The phrase 'at issue' means 'under discussion' or 'in dispute.' For example, 'The real point at issue is the cost' means that the cost is the most important thing being discussed or argued about. It is a common phrase in formal debates and legal cases.

It is more natural to say 'I have an issue with this' or 'the issue of this.' While 'about' is sometimes used, 'with' and 'of' are much more common collocations for 'issue.' Using the right preposition will make your English sound more native.

In software development, an 'issue tracker' is a system used to record and follow the progress of bugs, tasks, and feature requests. Each 'issue' in the system represents a specific piece of work that needs to be done. GitHub is a famous platform that uses this system.

A 'non-issue' is something that people might think is a problem or a topic for debate, but it actually isn't important or relevant. For example, 'The candidate's age is a non-issue' means that his age doesn't matter and shouldn't be discussed as a problem.