a single problem

USAGE SUMMARY

'a single problem' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a specific issue or difficulty that needs to be addressed. For example, "The team encountered a single problem that put the entire project at risk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There hasn't been a single problem".

The New York Times - Food

"But we haven't had a single problem".

The New York Times

Water-related risks seldom stem from a single problem.

The Guardian

He added: "Not a single problem was resolved.

The New York Times

I didn't have a single problem within the squad.

The Guardian - Sport

"We've never had a single problem with protocol-related issues.

The New York Times

A single problem lies behind all that friction and hostility.

Independent

At the lab, students will work together on a single problem.

Princeton University

It will consist of a single problem that also appeared on the individual midterm.

University of California, Berkeley

At first, the brain lavishes the scarce resource of attention on a single problem.

The New Yorker

"We didn't have a single problem with that," he said gleefully.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single problem", ensure it is clear what the problem is. Being specific enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a single problem" when multiple issues are involved. This can oversimplify complex situations and mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single problem" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its standard grammatical function, supported by numerous examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single problem" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to identify a specific issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to highlight a challenge requiring attention and is found across various contexts, especially in news, academic, and scientific domains. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the problem is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases like "one isolated issue" or "a solitary difficulty" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Avoid overgeneralization when using this phrase, as it should refer to one specific issue, not multiple ones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one isolated issue

Emphasizes the isolation and uniqueness of the problem.

a solitary difficulty

Highlights the lone and challenging nature of the problem.

an individual challenge

Focuses on the personal and distinct aspect of the challenge.

a unique complication

Stresses the distinctive and intricate nature of the problem.

a specific predicament

Pinpoints the definite and difficult situation.

one particular concern

Highlights the focused and worrisome aspect of the problem.

an isolated snag

Emphasizes the unexpected and minor nature of the problem.

a lone obstacle

Focuses on the isolated and hindering aspect of the problem.

a discrete hurdle

Highlights the separate and manageable nature of the problem.

a singular setback

Stresses the unique and adverse nature of the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single problem" to refer to one specific issue that needs to be addressed. For example, "The project faced "a single problem" during the testing phase.".

What are some alternatives to "a single problem"?

Alternatives include "one isolated issue", "a solitary difficulty", or "an individual challenge". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the single problem" instead of "a single problem"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A single problem" refers to one problem among potentially many. "The single problem" implies it is the only problem being considered.

What's the difference between "a single problem" and "multiple problems"?

"A single problem" refers to one specific issue, whereas "multiple problems" indicates there are several issues to address. Using the correct term ensures clarity and accuracy in your communication.