Fundamental problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Fundamental problems" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to basic or essential issues that need to be addressed in a particular context. Example: "The report highlights several fundamental problems in the current education system that must be resolved for improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Fundamental problems remain, and new ones are likely to emerge.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fundamental problems in computer science about what is computable by digital machines will change.

TechCrunch

There are two fundamental problems.

The Economist

The baht crisis reflects fundamental problems.

The Economist

The K.H.L. has also experienced fundamental problems.

The New York Times - Sports

But many fundamental problems remain.

The New York Times

"But they are not fundamental problems.

The New Yorker

But Alibaba is not without fundamental problems.

The New York Times

But even party loyalists acknowledge fundamental problems.

The New York Times

All the fundamental problems involved human behaviour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's a fundamental problem".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex situations, use "fundamental problems" to highlight the most critical issues that need addressing before other aspects can be improved.

Common error

Avoid using "fundamental problems" when simpler terms like "issues" or "difficulties" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly dramatic or complex for straightforward situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental problems" functions as a noun phrase, where "fundamental" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "problems". It identifies and emphasizes the basic or essential issues in a given situation. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fundamental problems" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote core issues across various domains. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is considered correct and appropriate for use in written English. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its prevalence in news, media, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in simple situations where less weighty terms would suffice. Alternatives such as "core issues" and "underlying issues" can provide nuanced options for expressing similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core issues

Focuses on the most important or central problems.

basic challenges

Highlights the foundational difficulties that need to be overcome.

underlying issues

Emphasizes that the problems are not immediately obvious but exist beneath the surface.

deep-seated problems

Suggests that the problems are deeply rooted and difficult to resolve.

inherent flaws

Points out that the problems are naturally part of something's structure or nature.

systemic issues

Indicates that the problems are related to the system as a whole.

root causes

Focuses on the fundamental reasons why problems occur.

essential difficulties

Highlights the key challenges that are crucial to address.

foundational weaknesses

Points out the basic vulnerabilities or frailties that undermine stability.

primary obstacles

Emphasizes the major hindrances that impede progress.

FAQs

How can I use "fundamental problems" in a sentence?

You can use "fundamental problems" to highlight core issues. For example, "The report identifies several "fundamental problems" with the current system."

What are some synonyms for "fundamental problems"?

Alternatives include "core issues", "underlying issues", and "root causes". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "fundamental problem" or "fundamental problems"?

Use "fundamental problem" when referring to a single, overarching issue. Use "fundamental problems" when discussing multiple key issues.

Are "fundamental problems" the same as "basic problems"?

"Fundamental problems" typically refer to more significant, foundational issues, while "basic problems" can be more superficial or easily addressed. The choice depends on the depth and severity of the issues being discussed.