a problem to deal with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a problem to deal with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an issue or challenge that requires attention or resolution. Example: "We have identified a problem to deal with before the project can move forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But Handelsman had a problem to deal with, which did not involve Cerro having any self-dealing interest in the sense that Grupo Mexico had.

Harvard University

But throughout it all, we'll still have a problem to deal with.

The Washington Post

As a niche business looking for very specialist graduate skills, that can be a problem to deal with.

The Guardian

In fact after decades of separate development the trad itional gap between rnodeling and simulation is becoming to be considered a problem to deal with and that can be solved.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

It was a little bit deflected, so maybe in some ways that might have made it a problem to deal with.

BBC

If there is an unreasonable expectation, and you don't discuss it, you will have a problem to deal with in the future.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Rainwater management is an essential part of sustainable site of a green building, in which the complexity of meteorological conditions is a difficult problem to deal with.

Journal of Cleaner Production

"We have reached a point where it's almost impossible to deny that we have a real problem to deal with," Mr. Stancik said.

The New York Times

This sounds a pleasanter problem to deal with than unemployment, more often the spur to reform.

The Economist

Now it has a new problem to deal with: drug abuse among its pilots.

The New York Times

Labour's media managers have a new problem to deal with.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a problem to deal with", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Alternatives like "a challenge to overcome" can add emphasis or shift the tone.

Common error

Avoid excessive use of passive voice when using "a problem to deal with". Instead of "The problem needs to be dealt with", try "We need to deal with the problem" for a more direct and active construction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a problem to deal with" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific issue or challenge that requires attention and resolution. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

27%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a problem to deal with" is a grammatically sound and common phrase used to identify an issue that needs addressing. As Ludwig AI suggests, it functions as a noun phrase emphasizing the need for resolution. While versatile, being mindful of the register and exploring alternative phrasing like "an issue to resolve" or "a challenge to overcome" can improve clarity and impact. Keep in mind that excessive use of passive voice should be avoided to keep the sentences direct and active. Top authoritative sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and BBC frequently employ the expression to identify issues across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an issue to resolve

Focuses more directly on the act of finding a solution.

a challenge to overcome

Emphasizes the difficulty and the need to surpass the problem.

a matter to address

A more formal and direct way of stating that the problem needs attention.

a difficulty to manage

Suggests an ongoing effort to control or handle the problem.

an obstacle to tackle

Highlights the need to confront and actively work to remove the problem.

a situation to handle

Implies a broader context, suggesting the problem is part of a larger set of circumstances.

a concern to remedy

Focuses on correcting or fixing the problem to improve the situation.

a hurdle to clear

Implies a specific, defined obstacle that needs to be surpassed.

a predicament to resolve

Emphasizes the complexity and urgency of the problem.

a snag to iron out

Suggests a minor problem that needs smoothing over.

FAQs

How can I use "a problem to deal with" in a sentence?

You can use "a problem to deal with" to indicate an issue that needs to be addressed or resolved. For example, "The company has "a new problem to deal with" regarding supply chain logistics."

What are some alternatives to "a problem to deal with"?

Alternatives include "an issue to resolve", "a challenge to overcome", or "a difficulty to manage", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of addressing the problem.

Is it better to say "a problem to deal with" or "an issue to address"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and widely used. "A problem to deal with" is slightly more informal, while "an issue to address" is often used in more formal or professional contexts. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "a problem to deal with" and "a matter to address"?

"A problem to deal with" generally implies a situation that needs resolving. "A matter to address" can refer to something needing attention, but doesn't necessarily imply something inherently negative or problematic. It can also be a neutral topic.