The central problem is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "The central problem is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing the main issue or challenge that needs to be addressed in a discussion or analysis. Example: "The central problem is the lack of communication between departments, which leads to inefficiencies in project execution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The central problem is never mentioned.

The Guardian - Film

The central problem is reprogramming I.R.S. computers.

The New York Times

The central problem is the question: what is prison for?

The Guardian - Opinion

The central problem is a lack of money.

The New York Times

The central problem is what the negotiators call investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS).

The Guardian - Opinion

The central problem is that Mitt Romney doesn't fit the mold of what many Republicans want in a presidential candidate.

The New York Times

The central problem is that what we refer to today as globalization is really economic globalization: It enables economic forces to prevail over social concerns and democratic precepts.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The central problem is a disconnection between didactic ideology, on the one hand, and a more imaginative and irreverent spirit on the other.

The New York Times - Arts

The central problem is a scene – which does not involve any children – when the main character is confronted by a group of lads.

The Guardian - Music

The central problem is that the industry overexpanded in the mid-1990'spendinging an estimated $700 million on new plants and equipment.

The New York Times

The central problem is that exam boards are such faceless bureaucracies; nationalising them and creating a single body wouldn't solve this problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow the phrase with a concise and specific explanation of the problem, avoiding ambiguity to maintain clarity and prevent misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "the central problem is" followed by a vague or overly broad statement; this diminishes the impact of your assertion and can confuse your audience. Instead, ensure the problem is clearly defined and focused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the central problem is" functions as a declarative statement introducing the primary issue or challenge under consideration. It serves to focus the audience's attention on the most significant obstacle. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct grammatical usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

21%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the central problem is" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent phrase used to introduce the primary issue in various contexts. Ludwig AI analysis indicates correct usage across diverse domains, including news, science, and academia. While alternatives exist, such as "the main issue is" or "the core challenge is", the phrase effectively serves its purpose of focusing attention on the most significant problem. To use it effectively, be sure to define the problem clearly and avoid vagueness. This phrase is considered neutral in register and is highly versatile.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The main issue is

Replaces "central problem" with a more general term "issue".

The core challenge is

Substitutes "problem" with "challenge", framing it as something to be overcome.

The primary concern is

Highlights the main concern or worry.

The key difficulty lies in

Focuses on where the difficulty originates.

The underlying issue is

Identifies a less obvious issue causing difficulties.

The fundamental obstacle is

Emphasizes the obstacle preventing progress.

The root of the problem is

Points to the origin or cause of the issue.

The crucial point is

Highlights the essential point to understand.

The critical aspect to consider is

Shifts focus to what needs careful thought.

What matters most is

Indicates what is of greatest importance.

FAQs

How can I use "the central problem is" in a sentence?

Use "the central problem is" to introduce the most important issue or challenge being discussed. For example, "The central problem is the lack of funding for the project".

What are some alternatives to saying "the central problem is"?

Alternatives include "the main issue is", "the core challenge is", or "the key difficulty lies in", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "a central problem is" instead of "the central problem is"?

While "the central problem is" implies a single, primary issue, "a central problem is" suggests that there are multiple significant problems, but this one is especially important. Choose the phrasing that accurately reflects the situation.

What is the difference between "the central problem is" and "the main problem is"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. "The central problem is" may suggest a more fundamental or deeply rooted issue, while "the main problem is" simply highlights the most significant issue.