a hidden problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hidden problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a problem that is not easily noticed or observed. For example: "The recent water shortage was a hidden problem that was only revealed after the drought had been going on for some time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"And for a long time it's been a hidden problem".

The New York Times

"It's a hidden problem, nobody talks about it.

The Guardian

In fact, alcoholism is a hidden problem among Muslims and other Asians.

Independent

Joan Bakewell, Broadcaster "It's definitely a hidden problem because we think of slavery as being abolished.

Independent

In the past, slicing the genitalia of girls was a hidden problem, not so now.

The Guardian

It's been a hidden problem because it doesn't show up on death certificates".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Ball said the Francis inquiry in February 2013 into the Mid Staffs scandal, which found close links between wards having too few staff and patients receiving poor care, "was a catalyst to uncover what had been until then a more hidden problem", prompting an NHS-wide drive to hire more staff.

The Guardian

"This is a largely hidden problem, and there is still a taboo about people getting this type of help".

Independent

But with the connection with homelessness still not widely recognised, domestic abuse is still a largely hidden problem to which the criminal justice system takes a mainly reactive approach, when what is needed is an evidence-based, problem-solving and preventive one.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Hunger can be a very hidden problem.

The New York Times

But the huge personal indebtedness of Haitians is a largely hidden problem, on which no one is campaigning.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a hidden problem", ensure the context clearly explains why the problem is not readily apparent. Providing specific examples or background information can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a hidden problem" to describe issues that are already widely known or understood. This diminishes the impact and can make your writing seem redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hidden problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a specific issue that is not immediately apparent. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase is frequently used in various contexts to bring attention to overlooked issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a hidden problem" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe issues that are not readily apparent. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, notably in news, scientific, and formal communications. The phrase serves to highlight overlooked issues, prompting awareness and further investigation. When employing "a hidden problem", ensure that the context provides sufficient detail to explain the obscured nature of the issue. Alternatives such as "an unacknowledged issue" or "a latent issue" may offer nuanced variations for specific contexts. While highly versatile, avoid using the phrase to describe commonly known problems, as this can diminish its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unacknowledged issue

Focuses on the lack of recognition or acknowledgement of the issue.

a latent issue

Emphasizes the potential for the problem to emerge or become active.

an underlying difficulty

Highlights the foundational nature of the problem, suggesting it's a root cause.

an unapparent challenge

Focuses on the difficulty being not immediately obvious.

a concealed difficulty

Highlights the intentional or unintentional act of keeping the difficulty secret or not easily visible.

a veiled issue

Suggests that the problem is covered or disguised, making it hard to see.

a subtle predicament

Emphasizes the delicacy and understated nature of the problematic situation.

a non-obvious complication

Focuses on the fact that the complication is not easily perceived or understood.

a tacit concern

Implies that the problem is understood but not openly expressed or discussed.

an ignored predicament

Focuses on the act of neglecting or disregarding a problematic situation, despite its existence.

FAQs

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

Use "a hidden problem" to describe an issue that is not immediately obvious or easily recognized. For example, "Mental health issues among students can be "a hidden problem", often masked by academic pressures".

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

Alternatives include "an unacknowledged issue", "a latent issue", or "an underlying difficulty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a problem "hidden"?

A problem can be considered "hidden" if it's not easily detectable, is deliberately concealed, or is overlooked due to its subtle or gradual nature. It often requires investigation to uncover its presence and scope.

Is it redundant to describe something as both "hidden" and "a problem"?

While technically not always redundant, ensure that the "hidden" aspect adds meaningful context. If the problematic nature is already evident, reconsider whether emphasizing its hidden nature is necessary or if it can be implied.