a common problem in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common problem in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an issue that frequently occurs within a specific context or field. Example: "Lack of communication is a common problem in many organizations, leading to misunderstandings and inefficiencies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a common problem in evangelical circles.

The Washington Post

Unaffordable housing is a common problem in rural England.

The Guardian

The "last mile" is a common problem in transferring information.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Spinal stenosis is a common problem in the aging spine.

Harvard University

This is a common problem in many buyouts.

The New York Times

A common problem in particle simulations is effective field interpolation.

Journal of Computational Physics

Malnutrition is a common problem in the elderly.

International Journal of Nursing Studies

Fatigue is a common problem in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Parkinsonism & Related Disorders

Enamel decalcification is a common problem in orthodontics.

American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Sleep deprivation is a common problem in the United States.

Encyclopedia of Sleep

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Stillbirths are a common problem in the United States.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common problem in", ensure the context is clearly defined to specify where the problem occurs. For example, "a common problem in software development".

Common error

Avoid using "a common problem in" without specifying the field or area where the problem is prevalent. This can lead to ambiguity and weaken your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common problem in" functions as a qualifier that introduces a prevalent issue within a specific domain. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts. It sets the stage for further discussion or analysis of the identified problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

28%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a common problem in" is a versatile expression used to introduce prevalent issues across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Its function is to highlight frequent challenges, setting the stage for further discussion or analysis. The register varies from formal scientific writing to neutral news reporting. Common alternatives include "a frequent challenge in" and "a widespread issue in". A key writing tip is to provide a clear context to specify the area where the problem occurs, avoiding vague statements. This ensures clarity and strengthens your message. With a very common frequency, this phrase is useful for effectively communicating shared difficulties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a frequent challenge in

Replaces "problem" with "challenge", focusing on the difficulty aspect.

a widespread issue in

Substitutes "common" with "widespread" and "problem" with "issue", emphasizing the extent of the problem.

a prevalent concern in

Uses "prevalent" instead of "common" and "concern" for "problem", highlighting the worrying aspect.

a recurring difficulty in

Replaces "common" with "recurring" and "problem" with "difficulty", emphasizing the repetitive nature of the issue.

a typical obstacle in

Substitutes "common" with "typical" and "problem" with "obstacle", focusing on the hindering aspect.

a familiar pitfall in

Replaces "problem" with "pitfall", suggesting a trap or mistake.

a known limitation in

Replaces "problem" with "limitation", focusing on the restrictive aspect.

a general deficiency in

Substitutes "common" with "general" and "problem" with "deficiency", highlighting a lack or inadequacy.

a shared struggle in

Replaces "problem" with "struggle", emphasizing the effort required to overcome it, and "common" with "shared" suggesting a collective experience.

a regular occurrence in

Replaces "problem" with "occurrence", focusing on the event-like nature of the issue, and "common" with "regular" suggesting the reoccurence.

FAQs

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

Use "a common problem in" to introduce an issue that frequently occurs within a particular field or context. For instance, "Procrastination is "a common problem in" academic settings".

What are some alternatives to "a common problem in"?

You can use alternatives like "a frequent challenge in", "a widespread issue in", or "a prevalent concern in" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very common problem in"?

While not strictly redundant, using "very" may add unnecessary emphasis. "A common problem in" already implies a significant frequency, so "very common" might be excessive unless you want to highlight an unusually high prevalence.

Which is more appropriate: "a common problem in" or "common problems of"?

The choice depends on the context. "A common problem in" is used to describe a general issue within a field, while "common problems of" refers to specific problems associated with something. For example, "a common problem in project management" versus "common problems of aging".