a problem to solve

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a problem to solve" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an issue or challenge that requires a solution or resolution. Example: "The team identified a problem to solve before the project deadline to ensure success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Each installation becomes a problem to solve".

The New York Times - Arts

Always another deadline, something to arrange, a problem to solve.

The New York Times

We'll give them a problem to solve and they have to come in and present it.

The New York Times

I love waking up knowing that I have a problem to solve".

The Economist

To Mark, I was not a problem to solve, a puzzle that needed working out.

The New York Times

Giving himself a problem to solve energised him and made him work in a different way.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The next morning, however, there was a problem to solve: how to get back to the car.

The New York Times - Travel

How do different dogs react when you place a biscuit under a cloth, thus presenting a problem to solve?

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

A busy manager has an open slot because she has a unique problem to solve.

Science Magazine

The tech to some degree is a solved problem, the time to… to learn is a hard problem to solve.

TechCrunch

"Commercial buildings are both a bigger problem and an easier problem to solve," DeBeer said.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs than "solve" (e.g. "resolve", "address", or "overcome") if you want to convey a particular nuance or level of effort required to deal with the problem.

Common error

Avoid using "a problem to solve" repeatedly within the same paragraph. Vary your language by using synonyms like "challenge", "issue", or more specific terms related to the problem at hand to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a problem to solve" functions as a noun phrase acting as an object of a verb or preposition, describing something that requires a solution or resolution. Ludwig examples show its frequent use in identifying tasks or challenges. Its meaning is generally consistent across contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a problem to solve" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a challenge or issue requiring resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. It's versatile, fitting into neutral, formal, and informal contexts. While highly frequent in News & Media and Science, remember to vary your language to avoid redundancy. Related alternatives include ""a challenge to address"" or ""an issue to resolve"". Using specific language, when possible, will help your writing resonate with the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenge to address

Replaces "problem" with "challenge" and "solve" with "address", suggesting a slightly more proactive approach.

an issue to resolve

Substitutes "problem" with "issue" and "solve" with "resolve", implying a need for a clear resolution.

a difficulty to overcome

Replaces "problem" with "difficulty" and "solve" with "overcome", emphasizing the effort required.

a challenge to figure out

This alternative is more informal, using the phrasal verb "figure out" instead of "solve".

a puzzle to unravel

Uses "puzzle" instead of "problem" and "unravel" instead of "solve", suggesting complexity and investigation.

a conundrum to tackle

Employs "conundrum" for "problem" and "tackle" for "solve", indicating a perplexing and demanding situation.

an obstacle to surmount

Replaces "problem" with "obstacle" and "solve" with "surmount", highlighting the need to overcome a barrier.

a matter to settle

Substitutes "problem" with "matter" and "solve" with "settle", implying a need for a final decision or agreement.

a question to answer

Replaces "problem" with "question" and "solve" with "answer", focusing on finding a solution through inquiry.

a riddle to decode

Uses "riddle" instead of "problem" and "decode" instead of "solve", suggesting a hidden meaning or solution.

FAQs

How can I use "a problem to solve" in a sentence?

You can use "a problem to solve" to describe a challenge or issue that requires a solution. For instance, "The company identified "a problem to solve" in their logistics network and implemented a new system to address it."

What are some alternatives to "a problem to solve"?

Alternatives include "a challenge to address", "an issue to resolve", or "a difficulty to overcome". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a problem to solve" or "a problem to be solved"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "a problem to solve" is more concise and direct. "A problem to be solved" implies a passive voice, which might be suitable if you want to emphasize that the problem requires attention but not necessarily immediate action.

In what contexts is "a problem to solve" most appropriate?

"A problem to solve" is suitable in various contexts, including business, science, and everyday life. It is particularly useful when describing tasks, challenges, or opportunities that require critical thinking and strategic solutions.