a major problem

USAGE SUMMARY

'a major problem' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a significant difficulty or issue. Example: Dealing with global climate change is a major problem for governments all over the world.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A major problem was parking.

The New Yorker

"They are a major problem".

The New York Times

Rabies is a major problem in China.

Independent

Lipodystrophy is still a major problem.

The New Yorker

"Otherwise there could be a major problem".

The New York Times

Impunity is a major problem in Mexico.

Independent

It's a major problem for Al Qaeda".

The New York Times

We have got a major problem.

The Guardian - Sport

Quality is also a major problem.

Independent

That is a major problem for us.

The New York Times

Corruption also remains a major problem.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Quantify the scope when possible. Instead of just stating "corruption is a major problem", provide data: "Corruption, costing the economy billions annually, is a major problem".

Common error

Avoid using "a major problem" to describe trivial inconveniences. Reserve it for situations with genuinely significant consequences to maintain credibility and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and categorizes a specific issue as significant, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major problem" is a versatile phrase used to denote significant issues across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While highly frequent in News & Media and Science, it's essential to consider the register and choose more precise alternatives for formal writing. When using "a major problem", provide sufficient context to emphasize the scale and impact of the problem. Avoid overstating minor issues to maintain credibility. Using diverse phrases to express similar ideas enhances your written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant issue

Replaces "problem" with a more neutral term, issue, while keeping the emphasis on importance.

a serious concern

Highlights the worrying aspect of the problem, focusing on its potential consequences.

a critical challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty and importance of overcoming the problem.

a substantial obstacle

Focuses on the hindering aspect of the problem, portraying it as something that blocks progress.

a primary difficulty

Highlights that the problem is one of the main issues.

a key impediment

Emphasizes the hindering aspect of the problem; more formal.

a pressing matter

Highlights the urgency and importance of addressing the problem promptly.

a grave predicament

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential danger of the problem.

a tough situation

Describes the problem as a difficult circumstance to navigate.

a considerable setback

Focuses on the negative impact of the problem on progress or goals.

FAQs

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

You can use "a major problem" to describe a significant difficulty or issue. For example, "Climate change is "a major problem" for coastal communities."

What are some alternatives to "a major problem"?

Alternatives include "a significant issue", "a serious concern", or "a critical challenge", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

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

Yes, "a major problem" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider using more nuanced alternatives like "a substantial obstacle" or "a key impediment" for greater precision.

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

"A major problem" signifies a significant issue with substantial consequences, while "a minor problem" refers to a smaller, less impactful difficulty. The choice depends on the scale and severity of the issue being discussed.