a narrower problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrower problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a specific issue that is more limited in scope compared to a broader problem. Example: "While the overall project has many challenges, we need to focus on a narrower problem that can be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 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

A Deep Dive happens when a company spends a lot of time and energy solving what at first seems to be a narrow problem but, because of the thoroughness of its answer, ends up creating new and unexpected opportunities.

Forbes

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

Nuance targeting its efforts at a narrow problem like patient documentation also makes sense because of the specialist nomenclature and routine procedures involved, which naturally provides a better framework for voice input accuracy vs more unpredictable and/or creative environments where dictation inaccuracies might more easily creep in.

TechCrunch

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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing complex situations, isolate "a narrower problem" to facilitate focused solutions and actionable strategies.

Common error

Avoid addressing excessively broad issues. Instead, pinpoint "a narrower problem" to allow for more effective and targeted interventions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrower problem" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object or complement within a sentence. It identifies a specific issue that is more limited in scope than a broader problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and readily usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrower problem" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that refers to a specific, limited aspect of a larger issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal communication. To use it effectively, focus on isolating manageable components of complex situations. While alternatives like "a more specific issue" or "a limited concern" exist, understanding the nuances of each option will help in precise communication. By focusing on "a narrower problem", solutions can be targeted, achieving quicker results and making complex issues more manageable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more specific issue

Focuses on the characteristic of being defined and precise.

a limited concern

Emphasizes the restricted nature of the worry or issue.

a particular challenge

Highlights the distinct and individual nature of the difficulty.

a focused difficulty

Emphasizes the concentration and sharpness of the problem.

a circumscribed issue

Indicates that the problem has clear boundaries and is well-defined.

a localized problem

Suggests the issue is confined to a particular area or context.

a restricted difficulty

Highlights the limited or controlled nature of the problem.

a contained challenge

Suggests that the issue is managed or kept within certain limits.

a pinpointed concern

Emphasizes the accuracy and precision with which the issue has been identified.

a tightly defined issue

Stresses the clarity and strictness in the problem's definition.

FAQs

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

You can use "a narrower problem" to describe a specific aspect of a larger issue that you want to focus on. For example, "While discussing climate change, let's address "a narrower problem" such as plastic pollution in the oceans".

What is a good alternative to "a narrower problem"?

Alternatives include "a more specific issue", "a limited concern", or "a particular challenge", depending on the context.

What does it mean to focus on "a narrower problem"?

Focusing on "a narrower problem" means concentrating efforts on a more defined and manageable aspect of a broader issue, allowing for more targeted and effective solutions. This contrasts with trying to solve an entire, complex problem all at once.

Is it better to solve "a narrower problem" or a broader one?

It depends on the situation. Solving "a narrower problem" can be more achievable and provide quicker results, which can then contribute to addressing the broader issue. However, sometimes the broader problem needs to be tackled directly for significant change.