a sensitive problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensitive problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an issue that requires careful handling due to its emotional or controversial nature. Example: "The committee is addressing a sensitive problem regarding the allocation of funds for community projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Critics accuse Obama of dumping a sensitive problem in the middle of nowhere rather than accepting that the US should take responsibility for prisoners it has abused.

The Guardian

It is worth noting that some of the narrative analysed in Weitzman, Kaci and Mandl's study specifically refers to breaches of privacy being of greater concern should the individual suffer from a sensitive problem [ 28].

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Unemployment in France remains high at 9.2 percent, while joblessness among youth, a particularly sensitive problem, is 22.8 percent.

The New York Times

"I think for police departments this is an incredibly sensitive problem," the chief said.

The New York Times

Developing a uniform definition of a 'primary care sensitive problem' applicable across contrasting ambulance systems presents a challenge for further research.

BMJ Open

M'Hallah and Alkhabbaz (2013) apply a simple Operations Research tools to a common and sensitive problem.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

This paper demonstrates the ease and invaluable benefits of applying simple Operations Research ORR) tools to a common and sensitive problem in health care.

Operations Research for Health Care

At the same time, by making it cheaper for China to import oil, iron ore and other goods, a rise in the renminbi is one way of combating inflation, which has become an increasingly worrisome and politically sensitive problem in China.

The New York Times

"Stephin has a sensitive ear problem, so we're going to play quietly," she says.

The Guardian - Music

Maybe what he needs is to take a sensitive, complicated problem, lay down a core conviction, and stick with it through thick and thin.

The New York Times

South Africa's government is grappling with the same, extremely sensitive, problem of how, and whether, to marry traditional healing with western medicine in its new network of primary health care.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sensitive problem", consider your audience and context. Ensure that the surrounding language reflects the gravity and delicacy of the issue being discussed.

Common error

Avoid excessive euphemisms when describing "a sensitive problem". While tact is important, clarity ensures the issue is understood and addressed effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensitive problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "sensitive" modifies the noun "problem". It describes a specific type of problem that requires careful handling and consideration. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensitive problem" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe an issue that requires careful and thoughtful consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Its function is to identify problems that are potentially controversial or emotionally charged and therefore require a tactful approach. As shown through various examples, it appears in various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Scientific domains. When using this phrase, it's important to maintain clarity and avoid excessive euphemisms to ensure the problem is effectively communicated and addressed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate issue

Substitutes "problem" with "issue", emphasizing the need for careful consideration.

a delicate matter

Replaces "problem" with "matter", implying a situation requiring careful handling.

a tricky situation

Substitutes "sensitive" with "tricky" and "problem" with "situation", focusing on the complexity of the issue.

a thorny issue

Replaces "sensitive" with "thorny", highlighting the unpleasant and complex nature of the problem.

a challenging issue

Replaces "sensitive" with "challenging", highlighting the difficulty in resolving the problem.

a contentious matter

Substitutes "sensitive" with "contentious", emphasizing the potential for disagreement.

a critical predicament

Changes "sensitive" to "critical" emphasizing the problem's importance and potential impact.

a difficult predicament

Changes "sensitive problem" to "difficult predicament", suggesting a troublesome situation.

a complex difficulty

Replaces "sensitive" with "complex", highlighting the intricate nature of the problem.

a touchy subject

Replaces the entire phrase with a more informal expression.

FAQs

What are some alternative phrases for "a sensitive problem"?

You can use alternatives such as "a delicate issue", "a tricky situation", or "a challenging issue" depending on the context.

How do I use "a sensitive problem" in a sentence?

Use "a sensitive problem" when referring to an issue that requires careful handling due to its emotional, ethical, or political implications. For example: "The committee is addressing a sensitive problem regarding resource allocation."

What makes a problem "sensitive"?

A problem is considered "sensitive" when it involves factors that could cause emotional distress, offense, or controversy. It often requires careful communication and consideration of different perspectives.

Is it better to avoid discussing "a sensitive problem"?

Avoiding "a sensitive problem" can sometimes exacerbate the issue. While careful and thoughtful communication is essential, addressing the problem directly is often necessary for resolution.