Another Word for Issue: 20 Synonyms with Examples
An issue is a topic people discuss or a problem that needs attention; as a verb it means to give out officially. Choose another word when you need to be more specific about which.
As a noun: an important topic for discussion
As a noun: a problem or difficulty
- problem
- difficulty
- concern
- complication
- trouble
As a noun: one edition of a publication
- edition
- number
- instalment
- copy
As a verb: to give out officially
- release
- publish
- distribute
- announce
- supply
- circulate
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- matter
- A neutral word for any subject being dealt with, often formal: "the matter in hand".
- concern
- Adds a sense of worry; useful when the issue is something people are anxious about.
- problem
- More direct than "issue"; makes it clear something is wrong.
- topic
- Purely a subject of discussion, with no suggestion of difficulty.
- release
- The usual verb for statements, films, music and products.
- distribute
- Stresses handing something out to many people, such as supplies or leaflets.
Example sentences
- matter: The council will discuss the matter again next month.
- concern: Rising rents are a growing concern for young families in the city.
- problem: The problem with the plan is that nobody has costed it.
- edition: The spring edition of the magazine features three new writers.
- release: The police released a statement shortly after midnight.
- distribute: Volunteers distributed blankets to everyone waiting at the station.
Opposite of issue
- solution
- withhold
- recall
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “issue”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: emerge, egress
noun: issuing, issuance
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “issue”?
The most useful alternatives are “matter”, “question”, “topic”, “subject”, “point”. For the main sense (an important topic for discussion), “matter” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “matter” and “concern”?
matter: A neutral word for any subject being dealt with, often formal: "the matter in hand". concern: Adds a sense of worry; useful when the issue is something people are anxious about.
What is the opposite of “issue”?
Common antonyms are “solution”, “withhold”, “recall”.