a challenging problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a challenging problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or task that requires significant effort or skill to solve. Example: "The team was faced with a challenging problem that required innovative solutions and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a challenging problem.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Messaging is a challenging problem in general.

The Guardian - Tech

Membrane protein isolation is a challenging problem.

Protein Expression and Purification

These pet peeves aside, elections forecasting is a challenging problem.

The New York Times

Reconstruction of abdominal wall defects is a challenging problem.

Stanford University

The repair of large ventral hernias is a challenging problem.

Stanford University

Slope reliability under incomplete probability information is a challenging problem.

Structural Safety

Autonomous landing is a challenging problem for aerial robots.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

All these difficulties make hysteretic system control a challenging problem.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Spinal deformities associated with spinal dysraphism are a challenging problem.

The Spine Journal

This makes fine-grained recognition a challenging problem.

Pattern Recognition

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "challenging problem" with more specific terms if the nature of the challenge can be described more precisely, such as "a complex logistical issue" or "a difficult ethical dilemma".

Common error

While "a challenging problem" is widely understood, overuse can diminish its impact. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a complex issue" or "a formidable task" to keep your writing engaging and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a challenging problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "challenging" is an adjective modifying the noun "problem". Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

12%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a challenging problem" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a situation requiring considerable effort and skill. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, especially within scientific, academic, and news-related domains. While versatile, it's beneficial to consider synonyms like "a difficult problem" or "a complex issue" to maintain writing engagement. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by providing specifics about the nature of the challenge. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively incorporate "a challenging problem" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult problem

Replaces "challenging" with a more common synonym, "difficult", while maintaining the same meaning.

a complex issue

Substitutes both "challenging" and "problem" with synonyms that emphasize the intricate nature of the situation.

a tough situation

Uses more informal language to describe a difficult circumstance.

a formidable task

Replaces "problem" with "task", highlighting the effort required to overcome the difficulty.

a demanding situation

Emphasizes the high requirements and expectations associated with the problem.

a knotty question

Uses a more figurative term, "knotty", to describe a problem that is difficult to untangle or resolve.

a thorny issue

Similar to "knotty question", employs a figurative term to convey the problematic nature.

a tricky matter

Suggests that the problem requires careful handling and finesse to avoid complications.

a puzzling dilemma

Highlights the confusion and uncertainty associated with the problem.

an arduous undertaking

Replaces "problem" with a more formal term, "undertaking", emphasizing the effort and perseverance required.

FAQs

What does "a challenging problem" mean?

The phrase "a challenging problem" refers to a situation or task that requires significant effort, skill, and ingenuity to resolve or overcome. It suggests that the problem is not straightforward and may involve obstacles or complexities.

What are some alternatives to saying "a challenging problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a difficult problem", "a complex issue", or "a formidable task" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a challenging problem" or "a difficult problem"?

Both "a challenging problem" and "a difficult problem" are acceptable and often interchangeable. "Challenging" may subtly suggest a more stimulating or engaging difficulty, while "difficult" is a more general term.

How can I effectively describe "a challenging problem" in my writing?

To effectively describe "a challenging problem", provide specific details about the nature of the difficulty, the obstacles involved, and the skills or resources required to address it. This adds clarity and depth to your description.