a broader problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"a broader problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an issue or problem that is more significant than the one being discussed but related to it. For example, "The educational system in this country must be improved, but it's part of a broader problem with our approach to social issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So its a broader problem.

The Guardian - Business

But there is also a broader problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

I think it reflects a broader problem.

The Guardian

Some see it as a broader problem.

The Guardian

Dr. Crew sees a broader problem.

The New York Times

This points to a broader problem.

The Washington Post

But it symptomised a broader problem for the prime minister.

The Economist

A broader problem with these techniques is the underlying psychology of me and my tribe.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ominously for the technology industry, there does seem to be a broader problem.

The Economist

This is part of a broader problem: the European Central Bank's conception of its own role.

The New York Times

And that, unfortunately, makes the Fed part of a broader problem.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a broader problem", ensure you clearly define the specific issue you are initially addressing before expanding to its wider implications. This provides context and prevents confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "a broader problem" without providing specific examples or context. Vague statements can weaken your argument and leave the reader unclear about the actual issue at hand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broader problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object. It introduces a more general or encompassing issue related to a specific topic, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a broader problem" is a commonly used noun phrase that serves to introduce a more encompassing issue related to a specific topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and versatile, fitting into various contexts, from news and media to academic discussions. When using this phrase, it is best practice to clearly define both the initial issue and the broader problem to avoid vagueness and enhance understanding. Common alternatives include "a more extensive issue" or "a wider concern". By providing context and specificity, the use of "a broader problem" can effectively highlight the larger implications of a given situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more extensive issue

Emphasizes the scale and scope of the problem being larger.

a wider concern

Focuses on the widespread nature of the issue and its impact.

a larger difficulty

Highlights the magnitude and complexity of the problem.

a more general issue

Suggests that the problem is not specific but affects many areas.

a more encompassing challenge

Indicates that the challenge includes many aspects or areas.

a systemic fault

Implies that the problem is embedded within a system or structure.

an overarching concern

Stresses that the concern is dominant and affects many other aspects.

a fundamental flaw

Indicates a deep-seated issue that underlies many other problems.

a comprehensive setback

Focuses on a widespread and significant negative impact.

a pervasive issue

Highlights that the problem is widespread and affects many areas or people.

FAQs

How can I use "a broader problem" in a sentence?

Use "a broader problem" to introduce a more significant issue related to the specific topic you're discussing. For example, "The company's low sales are not just a marketing issue, but "a broader problem" of overall product design and market relevance."

What's the difference between "a broader problem" and "a specific problem"?

"A specific problem" refers to a particular, well-defined issue, while ""a broader problem"" indicates a more general or encompassing issue that may include several specific problems.

What are some alternatives to using "a broader problem"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a more extensive issue", "a wider concern", or "a more general issue".

Is it always necessary to define the "broader problem" after introducing it?

While not always mandatory, defining the ""a broader problem"" adds clarity and strengthens your argument. Providing examples or context helps the audience understand the wider implications of the initial issue.