A complex problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A complex problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an issue or situation that has multiple interconnected parts or is difficult to understand or solve. Example: "The team is currently working on a complex problem that requires innovative solutions and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A complex problem is still to solve, though.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

A complex problem needs a complex solution, and demolishing estates and relocating families is not that.

Vice

Infant mortality is a complex problem.

The New York Times

But she oversimplifies a complex problem.

The New York Times

Apportionment is often a complex problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"But it's a complex problem.

The New Yorker

I don't think it's a complex problem.

The New York Times

This is a complex problem but there are solutions.

The Guardian

Molecules harbouring deletions present a complex problem.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Structure and Expression

Climate change is a complex problem with many facets.

Columbia University

Does helping someone stuck with a complex problem excite you?

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "A complex problem", ensure you provide enough context or examples to illustrate the complexity to your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "A complex problem" as a placeholder; instead, briefly outline the key contributing factors to illustrate its complexity to your audience.

Linguistic Context

"A complex problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a situation that is intricate and challenging to resolve. Examples in Ludwig showcase its use across varied domains, reinforcing its role as a descriptor for multifaceted issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "A complex problem" is a commonly used expression to describe multifaceted and challenging situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use across various domains, particularly in science, news media, and academia. When using this phrase, consider providing context to illustrate the intricacy. Alternatives like "a challenging issue" or "a multifaceted issue" can add nuance. Remember, avoiding oversimplification and providing context will enhance the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A challenging issue

Replaces "complex" with "challenging", focusing on the difficulty aspect.

An intricate dilemma

Uses stronger synonyms to emphasize the complicated and perplexing nature.

A multifaceted issue

Highlights the many aspects and dimensions involved.

A complicated situation

Replaces "problem" with "situation", broadening the context.

A thorny question

Emphasizes the difficult and potentially controversial nature.

A difficult matter

Simplifies the language while retaining the core meaning of difficulty.

A vexing puzzle

Implies confusion and the need for careful solving.

A convoluted affair

Suggests a tangled and confusing series of events or circumstances.

A head-scratcher

An informal way to describe something that is difficult to understand.

An enigma

Highlights the mysterious and inexplicable nature of the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "A complex problem" in a sentence?

You can use "A complex problem" to describe a situation that requires careful analysis and multifaceted solutions. For example, "Solving climate change is "a complex problem" requiring international cooperation."

What are some alternatives to "A complex problem"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a challenging issue", "an intricate dilemma", or "a multifaceted issue".

Is it redundant to say "a very complex problem"?

While not strictly redundant, using "very" can often be omitted. "Complex" already implies a high degree of intricacy. Consider replacing "very" with a more descriptive adjective to enhance the impact.

What makes a problem "complex"?

A problem is considered "complex" when it involves multiple interconnected factors, lacks a clear solution, and requires a multidisciplinary approach to understand and address effectively. Addressing "a complex problem" often involves trade-offs and uncertainties.