The key issue is
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
Use this phrase to refocus a distracted conversation onto the most critical factor of the situation.
In 15 Sekunden
- Identifies the most important part of a complex problem.
- Used to refocus a conversation on what truly matters.
- Common in professional, academic, and serious personal discussions.
Bedeutung
This phrase is used to cut through the noise and point out the single most important part of a problem or argument. It’s like using a laser pointer to show everyone exactly where the real trouble is hiding.
Wichtige Beispiele
3 von 6In a budget meeting
The key issue is that our expenses are higher than our revenue.
The most important problem is our spending exceeds our income.
Discussing a broken car
The key issue is the battery, not the engine.
The main problem is the battery.
Texting a friend about a party
Look, the key issue is that I have nothing to wear!
The main problem is my lack of clothes.
Kultureller Hintergrund
In English-speaking professional cultures, 'getting to the point' is seen as a sign of respect for others' time. This phrase rose to prominence in the mid-20th century within corporate and legal environments to streamline decision-making. It reflects a cultural value of linear logic and directness over circular storytelling.
The Power of One
Only use this for ONE thing. If you list five 'key issues,' none of them feel 'key' anymore!
Don't Overuse It
If you start every sentence with this, you'll sound like a politician avoiding a question.
In 15 Sekunden
- Identifies the most important part of a complex problem.
- Used to refocus a conversation on what truly matters.
- Common in professional, academic, and serious personal discussions.
What It Means
Think of a messy room filled with junk. The key issue is helps you find the one thing causing the mess. It identifies the root cause of a problem. It tells your listener, "Forget the small stuff for a second. Look at this."
How To Use It
You usually place this at the start of a sentence. It acts as a powerful transition. Use it when people are getting distracted by minor details. It helps you sound organized and sharp. You can follow it with a noun or a full thought. For example, The key issue is money or The key issue is that we are late.
When To Use It
Use it during a debate or a serious talk. It works great in office meetings. Use it when a friend is venting about a complicated breakup. It helps simplify a chaotic situation. It’s perfect for when you want to sound like the smartest person in the room without being rude.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for tiny, obvious things. If you're deciding on pizza toppings, it's too dramatic. Saying The key issue is the pineapple sounds like a movie villain. Avoid it in very relaxed, slang-heavy chats. It can make you sound a bit like a textbook if used too often.
Cultural Background
Western culture prizes efficiency and "getting to the point." We often feel overwhelmed by too much information. This phrase became a staple in business and law. It reflects a logical, problem-solving mindset. It’s about stripping away the fluff to find the truth. It suggests you are a person of action.
Common Variations
You might hear people say The main point is or The bottom line is. Some people prefer The crux of the matter is for extra flair. In casual settings, you might just say The big thing is. All of these do the same job: they focus the spotlight.
Nutzungshinweise
This phrase sits in the 'Formal to Neutral' range. It is highly effective in persuasive writing and professional presentations, but use it sparingly in casual conversation to avoid sounding overly clinical.
The Power of One
Only use this for ONE thing. If you list five 'key issues,' none of them feel 'key' anymore!
Don't Overuse It
If you start every sentence with this, you'll sound like a politician avoiding a question.
The 'But' Rule
Native speakers often use this after someone else has been talking for a long time as a polite way to say 'Shut up and listen to the important part.'
Beispiele
6The key issue is that our expenses are higher than our revenue.
The most important problem is our spending exceeds our income.
Used here to highlight a financial priority.
The key issue is the battery, not the engine.
The main problem is the battery.
Simplifies a technical diagnosis.
Look, the key issue is that I have nothing to wear!
The main problem is my lack of clothes.
Adds a bit of dramatic emphasis to a personal dilemma.
The key issue is not the dishes; it's that I feel unsupported.
The real problem is my feelings, not the kitchen.
Moves the conversation from a surface problem to an emotional one.
I think the key issue is that this laptop belongs in a museum.
The main problem is this computer is ancient.
Uses formal phrasing for a humorous effect.
The key issue is the lack of primary sources available for study.
The main obstacle is the lack of original documents.
Standard way to introduce a central thesis or problem.
Teste dich selbst
Choose the best word to complete the phrase for a professional setting.
We have many concerns, but the ___ issue is our lack of funding.
The word 'key' acts as an adjective here meaning 'most important' or 'central'.
Identify the correct structure.
The key issue is ___ we don't have enough time.
We use 'that' to introduce the clause explaining what the issue actually is.
🎉 Ergebnis: /2
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Formality Spectrum of 'The Key Issue Is'
The big thing is...
The big thing is we're out of snacks.
The main point is...
The main point is we need to leave now.
The key issue is...
The key issue is the logistical delay.
The fundamental concern lies in...
The fundamental concern lies in the structural integrity.
When to Use 'The Key Issue Is'
Boardroom Meeting
Highlighting a drop in sales.
Serious Debate
Refuting an opponent's point.
Relationship Talk
Explaining a deep-seated feeling.
Problem Solving
Fixing a technical glitch.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenNot directly. You wouldn't say The key issue is John. Instead, say The key issue is John's attitude.
It's a bit formal, but you can use it for emphasis. For example, The key issue is that you never pick up your phone!
Issue sounds slightly more professional and broad. Problem is more direct and often implies something is broken.
Yes, if there are two or three equally important things. For example, The key issues are time and money.
Usually, yes. An 'issue' is typically something that needs to be resolved or debated.
Yes, especially if you are trying to be clear. The key issue is I can't find the house.
Add a softener like 'I think.' For example, I think the key issue is... makes it an opinion rather than a demand.
They are very similar. The point is is more common in casual speech, while The key issue is sounds more analytical.
No, it almost always introduces the topic. You wouldn't say Money is the key issue is.
It means 'essential' or 'central,' like a key that opens a lock to a solution.
Verwandte Redewendungen
The bottom line is
The most important result or factor, often regarding money.
The crux of the matter
The most central or difficult part of an issue.
At the heart of it
The basic or most important part of something.
The elephant in the room
An obvious major problem that everyone is avoiding.
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