a main problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a main problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when identifying or discussing a significant issue or challenge in a particular context. Example: "The report highlighted a main problem in the current strategy that needs to be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Energy seemed a main problem.

The New Yorker

Critics cite voter confusion as a main problem.

The New York Times

A main problem is the lack of a discernible end to the spreading protests.

The New York Times

Political analysts say a main problem for Democrats is that Mr. Graham is already off and running hard and fast, supported by a unified party and well positioned to raise the $8 million or so needed for a credible campaign.

The New York Times

Some Democratic advocacy groups, including the Progressive Change Campaign Committee and Democracy for America, insist that a main problem with the legislation is that it is not progressive enough.

The New York Times

A main problem has been the assumption of thermodynamic equilibrium for what is a metastable system.

Acta Materialia

A main problem is, however, the lack of experimental data in the literature.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

A main problem related to applied ethics is the place of moral principles and moral practices.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

In science education, a main problem is overcoming false preconceptions and naive beliefs.

International Journal of STEM Education

But a main problem that advocates did not tackle, said Leiserowitz, was actually explaining what they were trying to sell.

Science Magazine

A main problem here is what kind of deliberation, justification, or reasoning is supposed to be at work.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a main problem", clearly define the context and specific aspects of the problem you are addressing to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid stating that something is "a main problem" without providing specific details or examples. This can weaken your argument and leave the reader unsure of the issue's true significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a main problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As indicated by Ludwig, it correctly identifies a significant issue or challenge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a main problem" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to identify a significant issue. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples confirms its wide applicability across various domains, particularly in science and news. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context and specific details to clarify the nature and scope of the problem. Consider alternatives such as "a primary issue" or "a key challenge" to diversify your writing and enhance precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a primary issue

Focuses on the issue being first in order of importance.

a key challenge

Highlights the difficulty and effort required to overcome the problem.

a central difficulty

Emphasizes the problem's position at the core of the situation.

a major obstacle

Suggests the problem is hindering progress and creating a barrier.

a principal concern

Indicates the problem is a significant source of worry or anxiety.

a significant impediment

Highlights the problem's role in obstructing or delaying progress.

a critical issue

Emphasizes the problem's importance and potential for serious consequences.

a notable drawback

Focuses on the negative aspect or disadvantage of the situation.

a foremost difficulty

Stresses that the problem is prominent and at the front of consideration.

a serious complication

Suggests the problem is making the situation more complex and difficult to manage.

FAQs

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

Use "a main problem" to introduce a significant issue. For example, "A main problem with the current system is its lack of security."

What are some alternatives to "a main problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a primary issue", "a key challenge", or "a central difficulty" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a main problem" or "the main problem"?

Both are correct, but "a main problem" suggests there might be other significant problems, while "the main problem" implies it is the most important or only problem.

What's the difference between "a main problem" and "a minor problem"?

"A main problem" indicates a significant obstacle or issue, whereas "a minor problem" refers to a small or insignificant issue.