a key problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"a key problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an issue that has a significant impact on a situation. For example, "Climate change is a key problem facing our planet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A key problem is poor infrastructure.

The Guardian

But the group has a key problem.

The Guardian - Film

That's a key problem with most disaster planning.

The New York Times - Science

A key problem is ensuring access to technology.

The Guardian

This indicates, I think, a key problem in these debates.

The New York Times

A key problem in this area is location management.

Stanford University

A key problem is pace: there is crispness here, but not inexorability.

The Guardian

But a key problem remains: Wall Street is not buying the Linux pitch.

The New York Times

A key problem for the continent's scientists is the dearth of Africa-driven research.

The Guardian

A key problem, he said, is poor enforcement of the press law.

The New York Times

The column clearly identifies administrative costs as a key problem with the U.S. system.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key problem" to introduce a specific problem that needs to be addressed before other related issues can be resolved. This helps prioritize solutions and focus efforts.

Common error

Avoid using "a key problem" for minor issues. Reserve this phrase for significant obstacles or challenges to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key problem" functions as a noun phrase identifying a significant issue. Ludwig AI states that it is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it introducing a central difficulty requiring attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a key problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for identifying a significant obstacle or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It's versatile enough for various contexts, from news reports and scientific publications to academic discussions. While widely applicable, remember to reserve it for issues of genuine importance to maintain its impact. Alternatives such as "a major challenge" or "a significant obstacle" can be used for variety, but "a key problem" remains a direct and effective way to introduce a critical issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty and scale of the issue, shifting from 'problem' to 'challenge'.

a significant obstacle

Focuses on the impediment aspect of the problem, highlighting what hinders progress.

a crucial difficulty

Highlights the importance and troublesome nature of the problem.

a primary concern

Shifts the focus to the anxiety or worry associated with the problem.

a central issue

Emphasizes the problem's importance to the overall situation or discussion.

a critical snag

Highlights an unexpected or hidden problem that creates obstacles.

a core impediment

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the obstacle preventing progress.

a major stumbling block

Highlights the hindering effect of the problem, preventing forward movement.

a fundamental flaw

Focuses on the inherent defect or weakness causing the problem.

a vital bottleneck

Highlights the restriction and delay caused by the problem in a process.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key problem" to introduce a significant issue. For example, "A key problem is poor infrastructure".

What are some alternatives to "a key problem"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a major challenge", "a significant obstacle", or "a crucial difficulty".

When is it appropriate to use "a key problem" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight a significant obstacle or challenge that needs to be addressed. Reserve it for issues that have a substantial impact on the situation you're describing.

Is "a key problem" formal or informal language?

"A key problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of your writing.