take issue

idiomatic phrase

: to adopt or express an opposed or contrary view or position : disagree

Though a barbecuing Southerner may take issue, Texas-style and Korean barbecue have much in common.

—Anito Lo

—usually used with with

She took issue with the conclusions reached by the study.

Carolyn Nichols, an editor at Bantam, took issue with the notion that romance fiction is escapist.

—Charles Trueheart

Despite the proliferation of all means of communications, from magazines to computers, books remain our chief medium for the full expression of ideas, and for taking issue with those of others.

—Robert R. Harris

Examples of take issue in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the move during his time in charge to collapse the theatrical window, Kilar still took issue with prospect of streamer Netflix acquiring WB. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 5 Dec. 2025

Poorstacy’s family reportedly takes issue with the account of his death and believes foul play was involved. —Brian Niemietz, Mercury News, 4 Dec. 2025

As Ritter orders the student to exit the stall, the student refuses and appears to take issue with Ritter opening the door to confront him. —Leo Bertucci, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Dec. 2025

The Context The incident occurred when a woman was walking with her baby and dog, and was confronted by Jaaskelainen, who took issue with the dog not being leashed, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. —Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1623, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for take issue

• reissue