a sharp problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp problem" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could be used to describe a problem that is particularly acute or severe, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "The team faced a sharp problem that required immediate attention and innovative solutions."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For him and the rest of the country's cultural elite, the Soviet-led invasion posed a sharp problem: emigrate, collaborate, or face the consequences.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

On drug abuse, a particularly sharp problem in New Hampshire: "We're going to end it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Both qualitative and quantitative behavior are addressed, and an assessment of the computational effort required to approximate a sharp-interface problem is made.

Journal of Computational Physics

In this paper, we shall discuss the sharp problems about (H_{mu}).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

The home office can contain sharp problems such as push pins, paperclips, file pins, the edges of filing cabinets and desks, pens, etc. Keep all pens, pencils, markers, and sharp instruments in the top drawer or box out of reach of the baby.

WikiHow

If we want to pass on a livable planet for generations to come, becoming sharper problem solvers ought to be number 1. on all our New Year's resolution lists.

Huffington Post

Mark Malloch-Brown, the director of the United Nations Development Program, put a sharp edge on the problem last week when he said the United Nations would have no problem performing some repair or relief jobs while the military allies worked on similar issues elsewhere in the country.

The New York Times

The lead author of the report Dr Elian Fink said: "Five years is a relatively short period of time, so we were surprised to see such a sharp spike in emotional problems among girls.

The Guardian

Other figures from NHS England, which reveal a sharp escalation in other problems over the festive period, especially in the week including and just after the new year, indicate the service was on the brink of a winter crisis.

The Guardian

The figures released on Friday by NHS England also show a sharp escalation in other problems experienced by the service over the festive period, especially in the week including and just after the new year.

The Guardian

Since the the California energy crisis of 2000 and 2001 and the collapse of Enron, the industry has been struggling with credit problems, a sharp drop in trading volume and investigations into trading practices.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a sharp problem", ensure the context clearly indicates the suddenness or intensity of the issue being described. Consider stronger, more common alternatives like "a pressing issue" or "a critical challenge" for increased clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a sharp problem" when a more general term like "difficult problem" or "significant problem" would suffice. "Sharp" implies a sudden onset or acute nature, so ensure this characteristic is genuinely present to prevent miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp problem" functions as a noun phrase where "sharp" modifies the noun "problem". While grammatically sound, Ludwig AI indicates that it's not a common or preferred expression. It describes a problem with suddenness or intensity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sharp problem" is grammatically correct but uncommon. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes a problem characterized by suddenness or intensity. While sources are generally authoritative, stronger and more common alternatives like "a pressing issue" or "a critical challenge" may offer increased clarity. Its register is neutral, and its usage appears most frequently in News & Media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pressing issue

Emphasizes the urgency and need for immediate attention.

an acute difficulty

Highlights the severity and intensity of the problem.

a severe challenge

Focuses on the difficulty and demanding nature of the problem.

a critical issue

Indicates the problem is of utmost importance and requires immediate action.

a grave concern

Stresses the seriousness and potential consequences of the problem.

a thorny question

Highlights the complexity and difficulty in resolving the problem.

a tricky situation

Emphasizes the need for careful handling and strategic solutions.

a tough predicament

Highlights the difficult and unfavorable circumstances.

an emerging crisis

Suggests that the problem is rapidly developing and requires immediate response.

a complex dilemma

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the problem.

FAQs

What does the phrase "a sharp problem" mean?

The phrase "a sharp problem" implies that the problem is sudden, intense, or requires immediate attention. However, it's not a commonly used expression, so alternatives might be clearer.

What can I say instead of "a sharp problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a pressing issue", "an acute difficulty", or "a critical issue" depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

Is "a sharp problem" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a sharp problem" is grammatically correct, but it's not a standard or frequently used phrase in English. Ludwig AI suggests it's acceptable, but not ideal.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a sharp problem"?

It's appropriate to use "a sharp problem" when you want to emphasize the sudden or intense nature of the problem. However, ensure your audience understands this nuance, as it may not be immediately apparent. Consider if "a pressing issue" or "a critical challenge" might be more effective.