a large problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a large problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an issue or challenge that is significant in size or impact. Example: "The company is facing a large problem with its supply chain that needs immediate attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is a large problem.

The Economist

And that's a large problem".

The New York Times - Sports

But there's a large problem with this thesis.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There is a large problem with public opinion.

The Guardian

"But I would be surprised if this were a large problem," he said.

The New York Times

Whether is it a small problem or a large problem, we don't know".

The Guardian

His gayness was, in a sense, just another aspect of a large problem: his absolute unwillingness or inability to conform.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet a large problem remains to be tackled: unemployment, which could well exceed the levels seen in previous recessions.

The Guardian - Opinion

In both 2000 and 2005 voters agreed to partly relax it.These constraints are not a large problem for liberal Denver.

The Economist

But by yesterday he made clear that he realized that his "clumsy" handling of the issue had become a large problem.

The New York Times

A large problem with Trump is that he doesn't view America as a world leader, working hard to tackle the common challenges facing the whole of humanity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider using more precise language to describe the nature of the problem, such as "a significant operational challenge" or "a critical logistical hurdle".

Common error

Avoid using "a large problem" when the issue is relatively minor. Overstating the severity can undermine your credibility and make you appear alarmist. Instead, use more appropriate terms like "a slight inconvenience" or "a minor setback".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a large problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It is typically used to identify and describe an issue or situation that presents significant difficulties or challenges, as demonstrated by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a large problem" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a significant issue. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts. It functions as a noun phrase, typically used to highlight the magnitude of an obstacle and often implying the need for resolution. While suitable for various settings, consider using more precise alternatives in formal writing to convey nuanced meanings. Common usage contexts include news and media and science, making it a versatile phrase for expressing concerns about substantial challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant issue

Replaces 'problem' with 'issue', suggesting a matter of importance that needs to be addressed.

a major challenge

Substitutes 'problem' with 'challenge', framing it as a difficult task that requires effort to overcome.

a serious concern

Replaces 'problem' with 'concern', highlighting the worry or anxiety associated with the issue.

a substantial difficulty

Uses more formal language, replacing 'large' with 'substantial' and 'problem' with 'difficulty'.

a considerable obstacle

Frames the problem as an obstacle that hinders progress and requires a solution.

a critical matter

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the problem, suggesting it requires immediate attention.

a pressing issue

Highlights the urgency of the problem, implying that it needs to be dealt with promptly.

a grave situation

Indicates that the problem is serious and potentially dangerous, requiring careful handling.

a thorny question

Presents the problem as complex and difficult to resolve, often involving conflicting interests or perspectives.

a tricky situation

Suggests that the problem requires careful handling and diplomacy to avoid negative consequences.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "a large problem"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a significant issue", "a major challenge", or "a serious concern".

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

You can use "a large problem" to describe an issue that is significant in size or impact. For example, "The company is facing a large problem with its supply chain."

Is it always appropriate to use "a large problem" in formal writing?

While "a large problem" is generally acceptable, more precise language might be preferable in formal writing. Consider using phrases like "a critical operational challenge" or "a substantial logistical hurdle".

What is the difference between "a large problem" and "a small problem"?

"A large problem" refers to an issue that has a significant impact and requires considerable effort to resolve, while "a small problem" is a minor issue that can be easily addressed.