a narrow problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe a specific issue or problem that has a limited scope or is not overly complex. For example, "I chose to focus on a narrow problem that I believed I could solve quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It's not a narrow problem.

The New York Times

As he spoke, I realized that this isn't a narrow problem facing the manufacturing industry.

The New York Times - Magazine

"There's no point in going to a global company with a narrow problem.

The Guardian

HOW TO DO IT Some of the best examples of strategic giving come from people who set their sights on a narrow problem.

The New York Times

Mr. Giuliani has identified a narrow problem, and attempted to solve it by smothering the BID's with a blanket of new bureaucracy.

The New York Times

Expert systems have traditionally captured the explicit knowledge of a single expert or source of expertise in order to automatically provide conclusions or classifications within a narrow problem domain.

Information Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Even when it isn't your fault, just not having [a] licence makes you guilty," says Armando, her husband.As the Senate voted this week to allow debate on comprehensive immigration reform, several states are pondering a narrower problem.

The Economist

His idea was to take a particular expert — a chemist, an engineer, a pulmonary specialist — and figure out how that person solved a single narrow problem.

Forbes

"We decided to focus on a very narrow problem — so identifying tasks and then later decisions and ideas".

TechCrunch

Given a more narrow problem focus, the tutor may be providing more guidance towards the learning issues that need to be covered by the students.

Advances in Health Sciences Education

As the pig's snout approaches the python's nether regions, it poses two distinct policy problems: a narrow "financial" problem and a broader "real" problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing complex situations, break them down into "narrow problems" to facilitate targeted solutions. Focus on "a narrow problem" can help streamline the development of solutions.

Common error

While it's useful to focus on "a narrow problem", avoid losing sight of its connections to larger systems or related issues. Failing to consider the broader context can lead to ineffective or even counterproductive solutions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "narrow" is an adjective modifying the noun "problem". It serves to describe a specific type of problem characterized by its limited scope or focus. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a narrow problem" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a noun phrase and serves to define a specific issue with limited scope. While "a narrow problem" isn't as common as other phrases, its presence across diverse sources like the New York Times, Forbes, and academic journals demonstrates its versatility. When using the phrase, consider the broader context to prevent overlooking related issues. Remember to break down a broader more complex problem in more narrow problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited issue

Replaces 'problem' with 'issue', suggesting a specific concern.

a specific difficulty

Substitutes 'narrow' with 'specific' and 'problem' with 'difficulty', emphasizing a particular challenge.

a circumscribed challenge

Replaces 'narrow' with 'circumscribed' and 'problem' with 'challenge' indicating a defined and contained issue.

a well-defined problem

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the problem's boundaries.

a focused concern

Highlights that the concern is precisely targeted and not broad.

a contained difficulty

Suggests the difficulty is not widespread or expansive.

a precise issue

Emphasizes the accuracy and specificity of the issue.

a particular snag

Uses "snag" instead of "problem", implying a minor and localized difficulty.

a localized challenge

Highlights the challenge's limited geographic or operational scope.

a discrete obstacle

Suggests the obstacle is separate and distinct from other issues.

FAQs

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

You can use "a narrow problem" to describe a specific issue with limited scope. For example, "The team decided to focus on "a narrow problem" to ensure a quick and effective solution".

What are some alternatives to saying "a narrow problem"?

Alternatives to "a narrow problem" include phrases like "a limited issue", "a specific difficulty", or "a well-defined problem".

Is it better to address "a narrow problem" or a broad one?

The choice depends on the situation. Addressing "a narrow problem" allows for focused and efficient solutions, while addressing a broader problem tackles more systemic issues but may require more resources and time.

What's the difference between "a narrow problem" and "a complex problem"?

"A narrow problem" refers to an issue with a limited scope and clear boundaries, while "a complex problem" involves multiple interconnected factors and is often difficult to solve. Focus on "a narrow problem" to ensure a quick and effective solution. However, you should consider if your narrow problem is part of a complex problem.