a simple problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an issue or challenge that is easy to understand or solve. Example: "This is a simple problem that can be resolved with a few straightforward steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's not a simple problem".

The New Yorker

Constipation isn't a simple problem.

Harvard University

Even a simple problem reveals his skill.

The New York Times - Books

And now I have a simple problem.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Volatility is not a simple problem to solve.

The New Yorker

BAA, Britain's largest airport operator, has a simple problem.

The Guardian - Business

At first it was a simple problem with his shower.

The Guardian - Opinion

I know that sounds like a simple problem.

Harvard Business Review

If you have a simple problem, you can offer a simple solution.

The New York Times

"It just bothers me deeply that it's such a simple problem that doesn't have to exist".

The New York Times

Maybe it's a simple problem of the keyboard design on the iPad.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a simple problem" to introduce an issue that appears easy to solve, but be prepared to elaborate if complexities exist beneath the surface.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple problem" if the issue has hidden complexities or requires significant expertise to resolve. Overstating simplicity can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple problem" functions as a noun phrase, with 'simple' acting as an adjective modifying 'problem'. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is frequently used across various contexts to describe issues that appear uncomplicated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a simple problem" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an issue that seems easy to understand and resolve. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts. While versatile, it's important to ensure that the problem genuinely possesses a lack of complexity to avoid misrepresentation. Usage is more frequent in news and media, academia, and business settings. Alternatives like "an easy issue" or "a straightforward challenge" offer nuanced substitutes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy issue

Focuses on the lack of complexity of the situation.

a straightforward challenge

Emphasizes the direct and uncomplicated nature of the task.

a basic difficulty

Highlights the fundamental and elementary nature of the obstacle.

a manageable task

Suggests that the problem is within one's ability to handle.

a trivial matter

Indicates the problem is of little significance or importance.

an uncomplicated situation

Highlights the lack of complexity in the circumstances.

an elementary question

Focuses on the rudimentary nature of the inquiry.

a facile puzzle

Implies the problem is easily solved.

a rudimentary dilemma

Highlights the basic nature of the difficult situation.

a clear-cut issue

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple problem" to introduce an issue that appears easy to resolve. For example, "The software update seemed like "a simple problem" at first, but it caused unexpected complications."

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

You can use alternatives like "an easy issue", "a straightforward challenge", or "a basic difficulty" depending on the context.

Is it always accurate to describe something as "a simple problem"?

No, using "a simple problem" can be misleading if the issue has hidden complexities. It's important to assess the situation thoroughly before using this phrase.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a simple problem" in professional writing?

It is appropriate in professional writing when introducing an issue that genuinely requires a straightforward solution and doesn't involve extensive research or complex analysis.