a host of problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence 'a host of problems' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to refer to a lot of problems that need to be dealt with. For example, "The company is facing a host of problems, ranging from financial issues to lack of resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But a host of problems remains.

The New York Times

As prime minister, Jibril will face a host of problems.

The Guardian

But the football itself was overshadowed by a host of problems reported by fans.

The Guardian - Sport

The blade computers solved a host of problems for companies grappling with expanding computer centers.

The New York Times - Tech

Low pay triggers a host of problems, particularly in developing countries.

The Guardian

But you also get a weird little wired remote that solves a host of problems.

The New York Times - Tech

Morgan has the levers of power – but a host of problems heading her way.

The Guardian

In his early-20s, he had a host of problems with addiction and substance abuse.

The Guardian - Music

Indeed, watching screens from so close brings a host of problems.

The New York Times - Tech

"This has got a host of problems," Mr. Dobbs said of the highway.

The New York Times

This possibility weighed on her, because a sale would mean a host of problems for patients.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "a host of problems" with a specific description or examples to clarify the nature and scope of the issues. For example: 'The project encountered a host of problems, including budget overruns, supply chain disruptions, and staffing shortages.'

Common error

Avoid using "a host of problems" when referring to a single, overarching issue. "Host" implies multiplicity, so ensure that the situation involves multiple distinct problems. Instead, consider using 'a significant problem' or 'a major challenge'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a host of problems" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object or subject complement in a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing difficulties in various contexts, indicating its role in conveying negative circumstances or challenges.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a host of problems" is a versatile phrase used to describe a situation characterized by numerous and varied difficulties. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage across various reliable sources, especially in news, business, and scientific contexts. It’s important to use the phrase when you genuinely refer to multiple problems. Remember alternatives like "a multitude of issues" or "a myriad of difficulties" can provide subtle changes in emphasis. By understanding its function and communicative purpose, writers can effectively use "a host of problems" to convey the complexity and severity of challenging situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multitude of issues

Emphasizes the great number of issues, similar to 'host'.

a myriad of difficulties

Highlights the diverse and seemingly countless nature of the difficulties.

a wide array of troubles

Focuses on the broad range and variety of troubles encountered.

a series of complications

Suggests the problems occur in a sequence or chain of events.

a range of challenges

Highlights the demanding and testing nature of the difficulties.

a number of concerns

Focuses on the worrying or disquieting aspect of the problems.

several predicaments

Implies difficult or unpleasant situations.

various obstacles

Emphasizes the hindering and obstructive nature of the problems.

numerous setbacks

Focuses on the hindering progress or reversing gains aspect of the problems.

an abundance of snags

Suggests minor, unexpected difficulties or complications.

FAQs

How can I use "a host of problems" in a sentence?

You can use "a host of problems" to describe a situation with many difficulties, for example: "The new policy created "a host of problems" for small businesses."

What can I say instead of "a host of problems"?

You can use alternatives like "a multitude of issues", "a myriad of difficulties", or "a wide array of troubles" depending on the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "a host of problems"?

Yes, it is incorrect if you are referring to only one problem. "A host" implies multiple issues, so use it only when describing several distinct problems.

What's the difference between "a host of problems" and "a series of problems"?

"A host of problems" emphasizes the large number and variety of problems. "A series of problems" suggests that the problems occur sequentially or are related in some way.