a significant problem for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant problem for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an issue that has considerable importance or impact on someone or something. Example: "The lack of funding has become a significant problem for the development of the new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Water leakage is a significant problem for water companies.

The Guardian

The absence of Cablevision is a significant problem for YES.

The New York Times - Sports

This creates a significant problem for the government.

The Guardian - Opinion

But even if Wilson is limited, it is a significant problem for the team.

The New York Times - Sports

The violence and kidnappings in the south pose a significant problem for Philippine tourism officials.

The New York Times

But I do think it's a significant problem for Republicans on its own terms.

The New York Times

However, one of the wiretaps that prosecutors want admitted poses a significant problem for that defense.

The New York Times

"Falluja has been a problem, a significant problem for the coalition and for Iraqi security forces for many, many months".

The New York Times

In general, this instability is not a significant problem for the cell, because RNA is constantly being synthesized and degraded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This has created a significant problem for film preservationists because only Technicolor film permanently retains its original colours.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So it is a significant problem for FastIVA.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant problem for", ensure the subject experiencing the problem is clearly identified to maintain clarity and relevance in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant problem for" when the issue is relatively minor or easily resolved. Overusing this phrase can diminish its impact when describing truly serious issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant problem for" functions as a descriptor, highlighting the impact of an issue on a particular subject. Ludwig confirms its validity and widespread use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a significant problem for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a notable issue impacting a specific subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's versatile across various writing styles, with a prevalence in scientific and news-related content. Ensure clarity by specifying the affected entity and avoid overuse to maintain its effectiveness. Ludwig's analysis helps writers leverage this phrase appropriately, contributing to clearer and more impactful communication. Alternatives like "a major challenge for" or "a critical issue for" can provide variety while retaining similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical issue for

Substitutes 'significant problem' with 'critical issue', emphasizing the urgency and importance of the matter.

a major challenge for

Replaces 'problem' with 'challenge', implying a difficulty that requires effort to overcome.

a grave matter for

Substitutes 'significant problem' with 'grave matter', emphasizing the seriousness and potential consequences.

a considerable difficulty for

Substitutes 'significant problem' with 'considerable difficulty', highlighting the substantial nature of the issue.

a substantial obstacle for

Replaces 'problem' with 'obstacle', portraying it as a barrier hindering progress.

a notable concern for

Replaces 'problem' with 'concern', suggesting a worrying aspect that needs attention.

a serious impediment to

Replaces the entire phrase with a more formal expression indicating something that hinders or obstructs.

a key disadvantage for

Substitutes 'problem' with 'disadvantage', indicating an unfavorable condition or circumstance.

a marked setback for

Replaces 'problem' with 'setback', suggesting a reversal or delay in progress.

a weighty predicament for

Replaces 'significant problem' with 'weighty predicament', indicating a difficult or unpleasant situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant problem for" in a sentence?

Use "a significant problem for" to describe an issue that poses a notable challenge or difficulty to a specific entity. For example, "The outdated infrastructure is a significant problem for the city's development."

What are some alternatives to "a significant problem for"?

You can use alternatives like "a major challenge for", "a critical issue for", or "a notable concern for" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a significant problem for" in formal writing?

Yes, "a significant problem for" is suitable for formal writing as it is a clear and professional way to describe a notable issue. However, consider more precise language if the context requires it.

What's the difference between "a significant problem for" and "a minor inconvenience for"?

"A significant problem for" indicates a serious issue with potential consequences, whereas "a minor inconvenience for" refers to a slight disruption or annoyance that is easily managed. The choice depends on the severity of the situation.