The term 'CRUX OF THE MATTER' is a phrase used to refer to the most important or essential part of an issue. The crossword solutions for this phrase are PITH (4 letters), NUB (3 letters), and GIST (4 letters). PITH refers to the core or essence of something, while NUB is a small, essential part of something. GIST is the main point or idea of something. All three words can be used to describe the most important part of an issue, making them all appropriate solutions for the phrase 'CRUX OF THE MATTER'.