a complex problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an issue or situation that has multiple interconnected parts or is difficult to understand or solve. Example: "The team is currently working on a complex problem that requires innovative solutions and collaboration among various departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Infant mortality is a complex problem.

The New York Times

But she oversimplifies a complex problem.

The New York Times

Apportionment is often a complex problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"But it's a complex problem.

The New Yorker

I don't think it's a complex problem.

The New York Times

This is a complex problem but there are solutions.

The Guardian

Molecules harbouring deletions present a complex problem.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Structure and Expression

Climate change is a complex problem with many facets.

Columbia University

Does helping someone stuck with a complex problem excite you?

Yale University

Have a complex problem requiring super computing power?

The New York Times - Books

Solving obesity is a complex problem — it won't happen overnight.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a complex problem", ensure you have identified the core components contributing to its complexity. Providing context enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid proposing simplistic solutions to "a complex problem". Acknowledge the various facets involved and the potential for nuanced approaches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex problem" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It serves to identify and categorize a situation as being intricate and multifaceted, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a complex problem" is a commonly used expression to describe intricate and multifaceted situations. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts, from News & Media to Science and Academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to acknowledge the multiple dimensions of the issue and avoid offering overly simplistic solutions. Alternatives like "a difficult issue" or "an intricate challenge" may be used to add nuance. It's important to remember that effective communication about "a complex problem" involves not only identifying its inherent difficulties but also providing context and a roadmap for potential solutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complicated matter

Similar to "a complex problem", but may suggest a higher level of entanglement.

a difficult issue

Focuses on the difficulty aspect more than the multiple interconnected parts.

an intricate challenge

Emphasizes the interwoven and detailed nature of the problem.

an involved situation

Highlights the entanglement and interconnectedness of elements within the problem.

a multifaceted dilemma

Highlights the many different aspects and angles of the problem.

a thorny question

Implies that the problem is sensitive and difficult to handle without causing trouble.

a challenging situation

Broader term that suggests difficulty without necessarily implying deep complexity.

a tough nut to crack

An idiom suggesting the problem is resistant to easy solutions.

a demanding task

Focuses on the effort required to address the problem.

a Gordian knot

Suggests a problem that can only be solved by bold or unconventional methods.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complex problem" to describe any situation with interconnected parts that is difficult to understand or solve. For example, "Solving climate change is "a complex problem" requiring global cooperation".

What are some alternatives to "a complex problem"?

Alternatives include "a difficult issue", "an intricate challenge", or "a multifaceted dilemma", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a complex problem"?

Use "a complex problem" when the issue at hand involves multiple interconnected factors and does not have a straightforward or simple solution. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

What distinguishes "a complex problem" from a simple problem?

"A complex problem" involves many interconnected variables and requires a thorough understanding of these connections to find a solution. A simple problem, on the other hand, typically has a direct cause-and-effect relationship and a more obvious solution.