Issue: Definition, Usage & Key Examples

Meaning 1：topic of discussion (issue)

issue 🔊

/ˈɪʃuː/

An important topic or problem that people talk about and need to solve.

Issue word meaning illustrated by a business meeting discussing an environmental topic on a whiteboard.

topic of discussion 🔊

➕

/ˈtɒpɪk əv dɪˈskʌʃən/

A subject or matter of importance that is being discussed or debated, often requiring a decision or solution.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'exire' (to go out), via Old French 'issue' (exit, outcome).

💡 Mnemonic

I see you (sounds like 'issue') discussing an important topic.

📖 Example

During the town hall meeting, the main issue discussed was how to improve public transportation. 🔊 The primary subject of debate at the community meeting was enhancements to the public transit system.

🔗 Collocations

address the issue – to deal with or tackle a problem

raise an issue – to bring a topic up for discussion

core issue – the central or most important problem

🔄 Synonyms

topic (n.) – A subject of conversation, discussion, or writing.

matter (n.) – A subject or situation under consideration.

problem (n.) – A matter regarded as unwelcome or harmful needing to be dealt with.

🚫 Antonyms

solution (n.) – A means of solving a problem or dealing with a difficult situation.

agreement (n.) – Harmony or accordance in opinion or feeling.

🌱 Derivatives

issuance (n.) – The action of supplying or distributing something officially.

reissue (n./v.) – A new publication or release of something previously made available.

📖 Cultural Story

From Latin 'exit/outcome', through Old French. The shift from a physical 'going out' to an abstract 'topic that comes out for discussion' occurred in late Middle English, solidifying its modern debate-related sense.