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 discussing a "complex problem", clearly define its scope and key elements to provide context for your audience.

Common error

Avoid presenting simplistic solutions to a "complex problem". Acknowledge the multifaceted nature of the issue and propose comprehensive strategies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" is an adjective modifying the noun "problem". It serves to identify and characterize a particular issue or situation that is not straightforward.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex problem" is a frequently used phrase that denotes an issue characterized by multiple interconnected factors, demanding thoughtful analysis and comprehensive solutions. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears across diverse domains like news, science, and academia. While various alternatives exist, such as "an intricate issue" or "a multifaceted challenge", each carries slightly different connotations. When writing, it's crucial to avoid oversimplifying solutions to a "complex problem" and to clearly define its scope. Understanding these nuances will enhance the precision and impact of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intricate issue

Replaces "problem" with "issue" and "complex" with "intricate", focusing on the detailed and complicated nature.

a multifaceted challenge

Substitutes "problem" with "challenge" and "complex" with "multifaceted", emphasizing the many aspects involved.

a complicated matter

Replaces "problem" with "matter" and "complex" with "complicated", indicating difficulty in understanding or dealing with it.

a thorny issue

Uses "thorny" to describe the problem, highlighting its potential to cause pain or difficulty.

a difficult situation

Replaces "problem" with "situation" and "complex" with "difficult", focusing on the challenging nature of the circumstances.

a challenging predicament

Replaces "problem" with "predicament" and "complex" with "challenging", emphasizing the difficult or dangerous situation.

a convoluted affair

Replaces "problem" with "affair" and "complex" with "convoluted", highlighting the intricate and complicated nature.

a perplexing puzzle

Replaces "problem" with "puzzle" and "complex" with "perplexing", emphasizing the difficulty in understanding.

a sophisticated difficulty

Uses "sophisticated" to emphasize the advanced and complicated nature of the difficulty.

a labyrinthine question

Replaces "problem" with "question" and "complex" with "labyrinthine", highlighting the intricate and confusing nature.

FAQs

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

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

What are some alternatives to "a complex problem"?

Alternatives include "an intricate issue", "a multifaceted challenge", or "a complicated matter", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "complex problem" or "complicated problem"?

Both "complex problem" and "complicated problem" are grammatically correct. "Complex" often implies many interconnected parts, while "complicated" suggests something difficult to understand or analyze. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What makes a problem "complex"?

A problem is considered "complex" when it involves multiple interacting factors, making it difficult to analyze and solve using simple or straightforward methods. It often requires interdisciplinary approaches and innovative solutions.