Issue People ˈɪʃuː Number Important I Big Time

• a key/major issue
• this is a big issue; we need more time to think about it.
• teacher education has become a political issue.
• they discussed a number of important environmental issues.

issue

1. an important topic that people are discussing or arguing about
• SEE ALSO side issue
  https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/side-issue
• a key/major issue
• This is a big issue; we need more time to think about it.
• Teacher education has become a political issue.
• They discussed a number of important environmental issues.
• They are talking about issues relating to the safety of children online.
• Her work deals with issues of race and identity.
• to explore/debate/examine an issue
• The union plans to raise the issue of overtime.
• We really need to focus on the key issues and not get sidetracked.
• You're just avoiding the issue.
• Don't confuse the issue.
• The meeting included discussion of a range of issues.
• What you say is interesting, but it does not affect the question at issue here.

Extra Examples

• She usually writes about environmental issues.
• The party was divided on this issue.
• This evening we're debating the issue of the legalization of soft drugs.
• A referendum was held to settle the issue.
• Europe remains the burning issue within the party.
• She spoke on the issue of private healthcare.
• The conference examined key issues relating to the reform.
• The issue of birth control was touched on, but we need to examine it in more detail.
• The problem raises wider issues of gender and identity.
• The real issue is where the power lies.
• The report highlights three issues.
• The strike of ten years ago is still very much a live issue in the town.
2. a problem or worry that somebody has with something
• SEE ALSO non-issue
  https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/non-issue
• If you have any issues, please call this number.
• The community is working together to address social issues and problems.
• All technical issues have now been resolved.
• Miller decided to tackle the issue head on.
• Serious issues arose during the development of the new product.
• Money is not an issue.
• I'm not bothered about the cost—you're the one who's making it an issue.
• She's always on a diet—she has issues about food.
• Young people sometimes struggle with issues around body image.
• He still has some issues with women (= has some problems dealing with them).

Extra Examples

• I don't think my private life is the issue here.
• Because I grew up in a dysfunctional family, anger is a big issue for me.
• A number of issues are affecting the dairy industry.
• Security has become a real issue.
• Don't hesitate to contact us about any issues and concerns that you may have.
3. one of a regular series of magazines or newspapers
• SEE ALSO back issue
  https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/back-issue
• the July issue of ‘What Car?’
• The article appeared in issue 25.
• an article in the current issue of ‘Newsweek’
4. a number or set of things that are supplied and made available at the same time
• SEE ALSO standard issue
  https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/standard-issue_1
• The company is planning a new share issue.
• a special issue of stamps
5. the act of supplying or making available things for people to buy or use
• SEE ALSO rights issue
  https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/rights-issue
• I bought a set of the new stamps on the date of issue.
• the issue of blankets to the refugees
6. the act of formally making something known to people
• the issue of a joint statement by the French and German foreign ministers
7. children of your own
• He died without issue.
8. to be the most important part of the subject that is being discussed
• What is at issue is whether she was responsible for her actions.
9. to do something to make people take a decision quickly
10. to start disagreeing or arguing with somebody about something
• I must take issue with you on that point.

Word Origin

• Middle English (in the sense ‘outflowing’): from Old French, based on Latin exitus, past participle of exire ‘go out’.