a problem arises

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a problem arises" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase when describing something unexpected or undesirable occurring. For example, "When the power went out, a problem arose and none of the systems could be accessed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

A problem arises.

The New York Times - Arts

It's when a problem arises about eating and living.

The Guardian - Books

But a problem arises when he's called on to terminate his future self.

The Guardian - Film

When a problem arises, nearly half of remote workers let it fester for weeks or more.

Harvard Business Review

Existing customers are covered by the monthly fee if a problem arises.

The New York Times

That's why it can often be more productive to avoid "solutions" thinking when a problem arises.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

A problem arose, and the plane was diverted to Atlantic City.

The New York Times

Earlier, when a problem arose, we would pray about it.

The Guardian

We consider a problem arising in database query optimization [R.

Information Processing Letters

"But if a problem arose with a Firestone tire, they wouldn't do anything".

The New York Times

A problem arose when it came out that Smith had given Nichols crystal methamphetamine.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a problem arises", ensure the context clearly indicates what the problem is or could be. It often sets the stage for a subsequent explanation or solution.

Common error

Avoid using "a problem arises" as a mere placeholder. Instead, be specific about the nature of the problem and its implications to make your writing more impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a problem arises" functions as an introductory statement, often setting the stage for a discussion about a specific issue or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

23%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a problem arises" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce a difficulty or issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about the problem to avoid vagueness. While synonyms like "an issue emerges" or "a difficulty occurs" can offer variety, the core meaning remains consistent. Remember to avoid overuse and ensure the context clearly indicates the nature and implications of the problem you're introducing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an issue emerges

This alternative replaces "problem" with "issue" and "arises" with "emerges", offering a slightly different but similar connotation of a difficulty becoming apparent.

a difficulty occurs

This phrase substitutes "problem" with "difficulty" and "arises" with "occurs", maintaining a similar meaning but with a slightly more formal tone.

a challenge presents itself

This alternative uses "challenge" instead of "problem" and uses the reflexive verb "presents itself", implying the problem requires effort to overcome.

complications ensue

This option replaces "a problem" with the plural "complications" and "arises" with "ensue", suggesting a chain of difficulties that follow.

a setback materializes

This option replaces "problem" with "setback" and "arises" with "materializes", suggesting an obstacle that hinders progress becomes apparent.

an obstacle surfaces

This alternative uses "obstacle" in place of "problem" and "surfaces" for "arises", implying an impediment becomes visible or known.

a snag develops

This alternative replaces "problem" with "snag" and "arises" with "develops", suggesting a minor difficulty appears.

a hitch emerges

This phrase replaces "problem" with "hitch" and "arises" with "emerges", conveying the idea of a temporary impediment arising.

a conflict originates

This option replaces "problem" with "conflict" and "arises" with "originates", indicating a disagreement or dispute starts.

a crisis unfolds

This alternative replaces "problem" with "crisis" and "arises" with "unfolds", suggesting a situation of great difficulty is developing.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a problem arises" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "an issue emerges", "a difficulty occurs", or "a challenge "presents itself"".

What's the difference between "a problem arises" and "a problem emerges"?

While similar, "a problem arises" suggests the beginning of a problem, while "a problem emerges" implies it's becoming visible or known.

Is it better to say "a problem arises" or "a problem has arisen"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "a problem has arisen" indicates the problem occurred in the past and has present relevance, while "a problem arises" speaks more generally to a potential or recurring issue.

What are some less common synonyms for "a problem arises"?

Less common alternatives include "a setback materializes", "a snag develops", or "a hitch emerges", each conveying slightly different nuances of the issue's nature.