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What is the Meaning of “Issue”?

Showing meaning 1 of 3 · Issue has 3 distinct meanings in English.

Issue
/ˈɪʃuː/
noun A2 Tier 2 (Top 3,000 words)

A problem or subject that people talk about and need to solve.

Definition of Issue (meaning 1 of 3 — noun)

Quick Meaning of Issue

A problem or subject that people talk about and need to solve.

Detailed Definition of Issue

An important topic or problem that needs discussion or decision.

How to Pronounce Issue

IPA: /ˈɪʃuː/
is sue

Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).

Tip: Two syllables with stress on the first. The 'sh' sounds like /ʃ/. The final 'ue' sounds like /uː/.

Watch out: Some pronounce as /ɪˈʃuː/ with stress on second syllable, but stress should be on first.

Full pronunciation guide for “issue” →

Other Meanings of Issue

“Issue” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:

#3 Issue as a verb

B2 formal

To give out or provide something officially to the public or to a group.

Example: “The bank issued new credit cards to customers.” B1
Synonyms: release publish distribute
Common phrase: issue a statement
View full entry for this meaning →

Origin and Etymology of Issue

From Old French 'issue', meaning outcome or result.

How to Use Issue in a Sentence

Each example shows “issue” in the meaning “A problem or subject that people talk about…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “Climate change is an important issue today.”
    A2 academic
  • “The main issue is that we don't have enough money.”
    A2 conversation
  • “Many people have strong opinions on this controversial issue.”
    B1 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Issue

Common Synonyms for Issue

Smart Synonyms for Issue — When to Use Each

problem
when something needs to be fixed or solved
topic
for what people are discussing or debating
matter
for something that is important or significant

See all synonyms for “issue” →

Common Collocations with Issue

These phrases pair with “issue” in everyday English:

  • important issue
  • main issue
  • address the issue
  • raise an issue
  • current issue

Common Mistakes When Using Issue

Even fluent speakers slip up with “issue”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: The issue are difficult to solve.
✓ Correct: The issue is difficult to solve.
Why: Singular noun 'issue' needs singular verb 'is', not plural 'are'.
✗ Wrong: We must address to the issue tomorrow.
✓ Correct: We must address the issue tomorrow.
Why: Use 'address the issue', not 'address to the issue'. No preposition needed.

Other Forms of Issue

Frequently Asked Questions About Issue

What is the meaning of "Issue"?

A problem or subject that people talk about and need to solve.

How do you pronounce "Issue"?

The IPA is /ˈɪʃuː/. Two syllables with stress on the first. The 'sh' sounds like /ʃ/. The final 'ue' sounds like /uː/.

What part of speech is "Issue"?

"Issue" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Issue"?

Common synonyms include problem, topic, matter.

How do you use "Issue" in a sentence?

For example: "Climate change is an important issue today."

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