a growing problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a growing problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an issue that is increasing in severity or prevalence over time. Example: "Pollution in urban areas has become a growing problem that needs immediate attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A growing problem has been illegal logging.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But they suggest a growing problem.

The Economist

But it is a growing problem.

The Economist

"Refusal bias" is a growing problem.

The Economist

I see it as a growing problem.

Independent

Obesity in pregnancy is a growing problem.

The New York Times

Homelessness was a growing problem.

The Guardian

It is a growing problem.

The Guardian

Violence is a growing problem.

The Guardian

Crowds are a growing problem.

The New York Times

This is a growing problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using the phrase. In formal settings, you might want to provide a more detailed explanation of the problem and its potential consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "a growing problem" as a generic statement without providing any context or specific details. This can make your writing sound vague and unconvincing. Always specify what the problem is and why it is considered to be growing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a growing problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it identifies an issue that is increasing in significance or intensity. The phrase is commonly used to introduce or highlight concerns across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a growing problem" is a versatile phrase used to describe issues that are increasing in severity or prevalence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. With numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and BBC, it is evident that this phrase is widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts. To enhance clarity and impact, it is recommended to provide specific details and evidence to support the claim that a problem is indeed growing. While alternatives such as "an escalating issue" or "a worsening situation" exist, "a growing problem" remains a straightforward and effective way to highlight emerging concerns.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an escalating issue

Focuses on the increasing severity of the issue.

a worsening situation

Emphasizes the deterioration of circumstances.

an emerging challenge

Highlights the novelty and increasing difficulty of the problem.

a mounting concern

Stresses the increasing worry or anxiety associated with the problem.

a burgeoning crisis

Implies a rapid and potentially dangerous development.

a spreading predicament

Indicates the widening scope and reach of the problem.

an intensifying difficulty

Highlights the increasing intensity and complexity of the problem.

a snowballing effect

Suggests a problem that is rapidly accumulating and amplifying.

an escalating threat

Focuses on the increasing danger or risk posed by the problem.

a looming disaster

Implies an impending and significant negative outcome.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a growing problem"?

You can use alternatives like "an escalating issue", "a worsening situation", or "an emerging challenge depending on the context.

How do I effectively illustrate that something is "a growing problem"?

Provide data, statistics, or specific examples to demonstrate the increase in the problem's severity or prevalence. For instance, "Unemployment is a growing problem, with rates increasing by 5% in the last quarter" offers a concrete illustration.

Is "a growing problem" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a growing problem" is suitable for formal writing, but ensure it's accompanied by sufficient detail and evidence to support your claim. In very formal contexts, you might also consider more sophisticated alternatives like "an escalating issue" or "a burgeoning crisis".

What's the difference between "a growing problem" and "a serious problem"?

"A serious problem" indicates the severity of an issue, while "a growing problem" implies that the issue is increasing in magnitude or impact over time. Something can be serious without necessarily growing, and vice versa.