a network of problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a network of problems" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complex situation where multiple issues are interconnected or related to one another. Example: "The project faced a network of problems that hindered its progress, including budget constraints, staffing shortages, and technical difficulties."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Often individuals in poverty will face a network of problems, some of which might be related to individual shortfalls in ability or education.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

As debated by the UN high level panel, the process of integrating people with disabilities into the workplace is without doubt a strenuous one, and more so in developing countries where efforts to include them can be made more complex by a network of wider problems such as poverty and a subsequent lack of access to services.

The Guardian

Mega-urbanization presents researchers with a network of densely interwoven problems that completely elude disciplinary boundaries.

Computers, Environment and Urban Systems

This paper aims at exploring the opportunities coming from the application of the OTSM-TRIZ Network of Problems as a means for mapping the design steps of engineering students coping with design problems.

Procedia Engineering

Also, a network of nursing academics experienced some problems with lack of focus [ 30].

BMC Family Practice

In the most difficult condition (i.e., carry addition problems with large problem size) a network of activation including the right intraparietal cortex (BA 7) was observed.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

According to Mary Ellen Iskenderian of Women's World Banking, a network of MFIs, a more pressing problem is likely to be over-indebtedness, fuelled by rapid growth in a sector with no formal credit bureaus.

The Economist

Given a network of CDC constraints, the consistency problem is deciding if the network is realizable by connected regions in the real plane.

Artificial Intelligence

The method is applied to an isothermal and an adiabatic CSTR, a nonlinear level control problem, a network of two stirred tank heaters in series, and a network of two heat exchangers in parallel, resembling the catalytic cracking process.

Chemical Engineering Science

But the full benefits will be felt only if all of the projects can be completed, Mr. Thompson said: a knot of interrelated problems requires a network of solutions.

The New York Times

InnoCentive offers an online marketplace where organizations can pose problems to a network of more than 200,000 "solvers" who compete for cash rewards for the best solution.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a network of problems", ensure that the interconnected nature of the issues is clear to the reader. Providing specific examples of how the problems relate to each other can enhance clarity and understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a network of problems" when the issues are relatively minor or isolated. This phrase implies a significant degree of interconnectedness and complexity, so reserve it for situations where multiple issues genuinely compound each other.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a network of problems" functions as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object within a sentence. It describes a complex situation characterized by interconnected and interdependent issues, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

22%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a network of problems" is a versatile phrase used to describe interconnected issues across various contexts, with Ludwig showcasing its presence in science, news, and formal business domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and best used when the interconnectedness of the issues is central to the message. While it is generally appropriate for formal and neutral registers, writers should ensure the complexity of the situation warrants its use and can consider alternatives like ""a complex of issues"" or ""a series of interconnected challenges"" to fine-tune the tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex of issues

Replaces 'network' with 'complex', emphasizing the intricate and multifaceted nature of the problems.

a web of difficulties

Substitutes 'network' with 'web', highlighting the interconnected and entangling nature of the difficulties.

a series of interconnected challenges

Replaces 'network of problems' with 'series of interconnected challenges', providing a more formal and detailed alternative.

a tangled mess of issues

Uses 'tangled mess' to convey the disarray and confusion associated with the problems.

an intricate chain of complications

Emphasizes the sequential and dependent nature of the complications.

a confluence of troubles

Highlights the converging nature of the troubles, suggesting they come together from different sources.

a cluster of related difficulties

Uses 'cluster' to indicate a grouping of difficulties that share some connection.

a confluence of adverse circumstances

More formal, replacing 'problems' with 'adverse circumstances' to sound more serious.

a constellation of challenges

Replaces 'network' with 'constellation', suggesting a pattern or arrangement of challenges.

a matrix of interwoven problems

Changes 'network' to 'matrix' and adds 'interwoven' for added emphasis to interconnection.

FAQs

How can I effectively illustrate "a network of problems" in writing?

To effectively illustrate "a network of problems", provide specific examples showcasing how different issues are interconnected. Use cause-and-effect relationships to demonstrate how one problem exacerbates another, creating a complex web of challenges. Alternatives like "a complex of issues" or "a web of difficulties" can also be useful depending on the context.

What are some more formal alternatives to "a network of problems"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "a series of interconnected challenges" or "a confluence of adverse circumstances". These options convey a sense of complexity and interconnectedness while maintaining a professional and sophisticated style. Make sure that the alternative fits well within the register of the piece that you are writing.

Is it appropriate to use "a network of problems" in academic writing?

Yes, "a network of problems" is appropriate for academic writing, especially when describing complex systems or situations where multiple issues are intertwined. However, ensure that you provide sufficient evidence and analysis to support your claim of interconnectedness. Using more formal synonyms like "an intricate chain of complications" might also improve the tone of the sentence.

How does "a network of problems" differ from "a series of problems"?

"A network of problems" emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of the issues, suggesting that they influence and exacerbate each other. In contrast, "a series of problems" simply implies a sequence of separate issues without necessarily highlighting their relationships. Consider using "a cluster of related difficulties" to better emphasize connection among said difficulties.