"Issue at hand" refers to the problem or topic currently requiring attention or discussion. It's the matter of immediate importance in a given situation. The phrase emphasizes the current relevance and urgency of the subject.
Understanding "Issue at Hand"
The phrase combines the word "issue," meaning a problem or subject of discussion, with the prepositional phrase "at hand," meaning near or present. Therefore, "issue at hand" literally translates to "the problem that is presently before us."
Examples of "Issue at Hand" in Context:
- Meeting Context: "Let's focus on the issue at hand: the declining sales figures for the last quarter." Here, the declining sales are the immediate concern needing attention.
- Personal Context: "Instead of worrying about tomorrow's problems, let's deal with the issue at hand: finishing this report." The report is the pressing task.
- Legal Context: "The judge asked the lawyers to address the issue at hand: the admissibility of the evidence." The evidence's validity is the primary legal concern.
The key takeaway is that "issue at hand" highlights the immediacy and relevance of a specific problem in a given context. It encourages a focused approach, directing attention to the most pressing matter.
The reference defines "at hand" as "near; not being distant in time, space, or significance." This perfectly aligns with the meaning of "issue at hand," underscoring the proximity and importance of the problem in question. We sat down to address the issue at hand, meaning we immediately addressed the important problem.
