What is issue? Pronunciation and usage in English

issue means . Learn how to pronounce and use issue through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of issue

issuenoun

/ˈɪʃ(j)uː//ˈɪsjuː/
Definition & pronunciation of issue

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "issue" in English. It's a tricky one because it's often mispronounced! Here's the breakdown:

Correct Pronunciation:

  • ˈɪʃʊ (This is the most common and widely accepted pronunciation)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈɪ - This is a short "i" sound, like in the word "bit." It's emphasized – that's why it's written with a little line above it (ˈ).
  • ʃ - This is the "sh" sound, like in the word "ship."
  • ʊ - This is a short "u" sound, like in the word "foot." It's a rounded vowel sound.

Common Mispronunciations and Why They're Wrong:

  • "Isu" - This is extremely common! It drops the "sh" sound and just says "Isu." It's a very common mistake.
  • "Ee-shoo" - Adding the "ee" sound makes it sound like "issue" became "e-shoo," which is incorrect.

Resources to Listen:

Tips for remembering:

  • Focus on the "sh" sound: That's the key.
  • Practice slowly: Say the word out loud, repeating the "ˈɪʃʊ" sound several times.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you some example sentences using "issue"?

Usage and examples with the word issue in English

Let's break down how to use the word "issue" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. As a Noun (Most Common Usage)

  • A Problem or Difficulty: This is the most frequent way "issue" is used. It refers to a trouble, problem, or concern.

    • “We have an issue with the printer – it keeps jamming.” (A mechanical problem)
    • “The company is facing several financial issues.” (Problems related to money)
    • “She raised concerns about the issue of climate change.” (A problem related to environment)
    • “There’s a serious issue of food insecurity in the region.” (A fundamental problem)

  • A Publication (e.g., a newspaper, magazine, book):

    • “The school newspaper is a regular issue.”
    • “This is the latest issue of National Geographic.”

  • A Point or Topic (for discussion): Often used in formal contexts.

    • “The issue of healthcare reform dominated the debate.”
    • “Let’s discuss the key issues surrounding the proposal.”

  • A Child (Less Common, Formal): Specifically referring to a born child.

    • “The royal couple announced the issue of a new prince.”

2. As a Verb

  • To Bring Forth or Publish (Something): This means to release or produce something, often a document or publication.

    • “The company will issue a statement later today.” (To release a statement)
    • “The government issued a new law.” (To publish a law)
    • “The magazine issues four times a year.” (To publish issues)

  • To Produce or Generate (Something): This can be a more abstract meaning, referring to a result or consequence.

    • “The new regulations will issue a range of problems for businesses.” (To create problems)
    • “The conflict issued from a misunderstanding.” (To arise from)

3. Phrases Using "Issue"

  • Issue a challenge: To present a difficulty or problem to someone. “He issued a challenge to the rival golfer.”
  • Issue a warning: To give a warning. “The police issued a warning about speeding.”
  • Issue a decree: To make a formal declaration. “The king issued a decree banning all weapons.”
  • Issue orders: To give instructions. “The general issued orders to the troops.”
  • Issue with…: (Often used with "having") - “I’m having an issue with my computer.” (Meaning a problem)

Tips for Choosing the Right Meaning

  • Context is Key: The surrounding words and the overall situation will usually make it clear which meaning of “issue” is intended.
  • Formal vs. Informal: “Issue” is more common and accepted in formal writing and speech than in casual conversation.
  • Consider Synonyms: Depending on the intended meaning, you might consider using words like problem, difficulty, concern, topic, publication, statement, or result.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you doing (e.g., academic essay, email, creative writing)?
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're trying to use the word "issue"?

Synonyms for the word issue

Idioms of the word issue

be at issue
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.
force the issue
to do something to make people take a decision quickly
    take issue with somebody (about/on/over something)
    (formal)to start disagreeing or arguing with somebody about something
    • I must take issue with you on that point.

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