Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Issue” — 12 Other Ways to Say It
A problem or subject that people talk about and need to solve.
Meanings of Issue — Pick the Sense You Need
Issue has 3 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a noun
A problem or subject that people talk about and need to solve.
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Meaning #2
as a noun
One specific copy or printing of a magazine, newspaper, or journal.
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Meaning #3
as a verb
To give out or provide something officially to the public or to a group.
How to Pronounce Issue
IPA: /ˈɪʃuː/ Stress: Oo
Two syllables with stress on the first. The 'sh' sounds like /ʃ/. The final 'ue' sounds like /uː/.
4 Synonyms for Issue (Meaning #1 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use issue as a noun. Meaning: A problem or subject that people talk about and need to solve.
problem
/ˈprɒbləm/A difficult situation that needs a solution or answer.
Example: We have a problem with the water supply.
topic
/ˈtɒpɪk/A subject people talk or write about.
Example: The weather is a common topic of conversation.
matter
/ˈmætər/Something physical you can touch, like wood or metal; or something that is important.
Example: Water and ice are different forms of matter.
concern
/kənˈsɜːrn/Something that makes you worried or that you think is important to pay attention to.
Example: Health concerns often prevent people from traveling abroad.
4 Synonyms for Issue (Meaning #2 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use issue as a noun. Meaning: One specific copy or printing of a magazine, newspaper, or journal.
edition
/ɪˈdɪʃən/A particular version of a book, newspaper, or magazine published at a specific time.
Example: The first edition of this book is worth a lot of money.
number
/ˈnʌmbər/A symbol or word like 1, 2, 3, one, two, three used for counting.
Example: Count the numbers from one to ten.
copy
/ˈkɒpi/One version of something that is made to look the same as another version.
Example: Please give me a copy of that contract before you leave.
version
/ˈvɜːʃən/A different form or copy of something; especially a new software update or one person's description of what happened.
Example: The new version of the software has better features.
4 Synonyms for Issue (Meaning #3 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use issue as a verb. Meaning: To give out or provide something officially to the public or to a group.
release
/rɪˈliːs/A version of a computer program that is ready and given to users.
Example: The company announced the release of version 3.0 next month.
publish
/ˈpʌblɪʃ/To release or distribute written work like books or articles so people can read them.
Example: The author published her first novel in 2015.
distribute
/dɪˈstrɪbjuːt/To share or give out something to many people or places.
Example: The charity distributed food to families in need.
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
Antonyms of Issue — Opposite Words
How to Use Issue and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- Climate change is an important issue today. A2
- The main issue is that we don't have enough money. A2
- Many people have strong opinions on this controversial issue. B1
- The latest issue of the magazine arrived yesterday. B1
- I found old issues of the newspaper in the library. B2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Issue
What is another word for "issue"?
Common synonyms for "issue" include: problem, topic, matter, concern, edition.
What can I say instead of "issue"?
Try one of these alternatives: problem, topic, matter, concern, edition. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "issue" formal or informal?
"issue" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "issue" instead of "problem"?
Use "issue" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "problem" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "issue"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "issue" include: withdraw, recall.