side issue

Definitions

A secondary or subordinate matter that is not the main focus of a discussion or situation.

An incidental point or topic that arises during the consideration of a more important issue.

Examples

We should focus on the main project goals rather than getting distracted by every minor side issue.

The committee decided that the budget dispute was a side issue and chose to prioritize the new marketing strategy.

Synonyms

tangential matter minor point secondary concern digression byproduct

Antonyms

main issue central theme primary concern core subject essential point