a severe problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a severe problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or issue that is serious or critical in nature. Example: "The company is facing a severe problem with its supply chain, which could impact production schedules."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nevertheless, overcrowding remains a severe problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Max's rashes became a severe problem when he turned 9.

The New York Times

Food waste is a severe problem in China.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It is really a severe problem in our society today".

The New York Times

"Unemployment is a severe problem," said Zhong Dajun, who runs an economic research center in Beijing.

The New York Times

But sex-determining genes pose a severe problem for the organization of a genome.

The New York Times - Science

"It's almost as though the department and the minister don't acknowledge that mental illness is a severe problem," she said.

The Guardian

"The M.T.A. has historically had a severe problem in knowing when elevators are or are not in service," he said.

The New York Times

"It's easy to say now that construction was done wrong and now we have a severe problem," Mr. Guzzetti said.

The New York Times

Rats and cockroaches are a severe problem, largely due to a lack of garbage cans and adequate cleaners.

The New York Times

Mao: Overcapacity is a severe problem in China.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a severe problem", ensure that the context clearly establishes the scope and impact of the problem. Providing specific examples or data points can enhance the reader's understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a severe problem" when the issue is relatively minor or easily resolved. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a severe problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a particular issue as being serious or critical. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a severe problem" is a common phrase used to describe serious issues across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It functions as a noun phrase, highlighting the gravity of a situation and prompting attention. While versatile, it's best reserved for genuinely serious matters to maintain its impact. Related phrases include "a critical issue" and "a serious challenge". The phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for diverse audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical issue

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the problem.

a serious challenge

Highlights the difficulty in overcoming the problem.

a major concern

Focuses on the level of worry or anxiety caused by the problem.

a significant difficulty

Underlines the magnitude and impact of the problem.

a grave matter

Indicates the seriousness and potential consequences of the problem.

a pressing issue

Suggests that the problem requires immediate attention.

a substantial obstacle

Highlights the hindering effect of the problem.

a thorny question

Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty in resolving the problem.

a dire situation

Highlights that the current status is very dangerous or serious.

a tough predicament

Emphasizes the difficult and unpleasant nature of the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "a severe problem" in a sentence?

You can use "a severe problem" to describe a serious issue or situation. For example: "Overcrowding remains "a severe problem" in El Salvador".

What are some alternatives to "a severe problem"?

Alternatives include "a critical issue", "a serious challenge", or "a major concern", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "a severe problem"?

No, it is not always appropriate. This phrase should be reserved for situations that are genuinely serious and have significant negative consequences. Using it for minor issues can dilute its impact.

What makes "a severe problem" different from "a problem"?

"A severe problem" implies a greater degree of seriousness, difficulty, or negative impact than simply "a problem". It suggests that the issue is critical and requires immediate, significant attention.