a problem that may

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a problem that may" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential issues or uncertainties that could arise in a given context. Example: "We need to address a problem that may affect our project's timeline if not resolved quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You can create a problem that may not be there".

The New Yorker

(A problem that may abate as the economy slows).

The New York Times - Food

Ms. Johnson wants to solve a problem that may not really exist.

The New York Times

But there is a problem that may elude the best efforts of Bocog and its bureaucratic allies.

The New York Times

The agencies that have been cutting financing for Fermilab and the Spirit rover on Mars are paying for investigations of a problem that may not even exist.

The New York Times - Science

Ms. Kurzeka warned me not to pin my hopes on a technological solution to a problem that may have different roots.

The New York Times

Electricity fails sporadically, a problem that may take years to overcome, and many major roads damaged in the war need repairs.

The New York Times

Taken in isolation, this bill is curious: a piece of nigh-on unenforceable law aimed at solving a problem that may or may not actually be particularly widespread.

The Guardian - Opinion

A function that allows students to preview applications and print them sometimes just shows blank pages — a problem that may be linked to which Web browsers they use.

The New York Times

Glaxo Wellcome, for example, sponsors a portion of the WebMD site devoted to irritable bowel syndrome, which raises awareness of a problem that may be treated with a Glaxo drug.

The New York Times

In a letter to investigators, she described Strauss-Khan as "a man with a problem that may make him ill-equipped to lead an institution where women work under his command".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a problem that may", consider whether the uncertainty is the existence of the problem itself or its potential impact. Adjust your wording to reflect the specific uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a problem that may" as an inevitable outcome. Maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging the possibility while also considering alternative scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a problem that may" functions as a noun phrase, introducing a potential issue or challenge. It serves to highlight the possibility of an adverse outcome, as seen in examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a problem that may" is a versatile phrase used to introduce potential issues or challenges while acknowledging their uncertain nature. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly found in news, scientific and formal contexts. Its usage emphasizes the possibility of a problem, rather than its certainty. The related phrases offer alternative ways to express this uncertainty, varying in their emphasis on the nature and timing of the potential issue. When employing this phrase, it's important to maintain a balanced perspective, avoiding the implication that the problem is inevitable. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively communicate potential risks and challenges in a clear and objective manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential issue

Focuses directly on the possibility of a problem arising.

a possible difficulty

Emphasizes the challenging aspect of the potential problem.

an emerging concern

Highlights the developing nature of the problem.

a looming threat

Stresses the negative and impending nature of the problem.

a risk that exists

Focuses on the inherent possibility of a problem materializing.

a foreseeable challenge

Highlights the predictability or anticipation of the problem.

a hypothetical problem

Emphasizes the theoretical or speculative nature of the problem.

a developing situation

Focuses on the evolving aspects of the problem.

a source of uncertainty

Highlights the unpredictable elements associated with the problem.

a future complication

Specifically indicates that the problem is likely to occur later in time.

FAQs

How can I use "a problem that may" in a sentence?

Use "a problem that may" to introduce a potential issue or challenge, emphasizing its uncertain nature. For example, "Lack of funding is "a problem that may" hinder the project's completion".

What are some alternatives to "a problem that may"?

You can use alternatives like "a potential issue", "a possible difficulty", or "an emerging concern" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a problem that may occur"?

While not strictly redundant, the phrase "a problem that may occur" can sometimes be shortened to simply "a potential problem" for conciseness. The choice depends on the desired level of emphasis on the possibility of the problem occurring.

What's the difference between "a problem that may" and "a problem that will"?

"A problem that may" indicates uncertainty, suggesting the problem is possible but not definite. "A problem that will" implies a higher degree of certainty, suggesting the problem is likely to happen. Consider the level of certainty you want to convey.