the thing is

the thing is

The main or fundamental issue or element (of what's being discussed). I agree with your point, but the thing is, if we agree to increase spending for education, then all sorts of other public utilities will go underfunded as a result.

See also: thing

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

the thing is

The issue, main point, or problem is, as in The thing is, we haven't enough money for the tickets. [Colloquial; late 1800s]

See also: thing

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

the ˌthing (about/with something) ˈis

(spoken) used to introduce an important fact, reason or explanation: I know you want to expand the business. The thing is, we haven’t got the money to do that. ♢ I’m sorry I didn’t call you. The thing is, I’ve been really busy lately.

See also: thing

the (only) thing ˈis...

(spoken) used before mentioning a worry or problem you have with something: I’d love to come — the only thing is I might be late.

See also: thing

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