a spate of problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a spate of problems" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden or large number of issues occurring in a short period of time. Example: "The company faced a spate of problems after the software update, leading to numerous customer complaints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Harder hit than most publishers who have struggled with falling print revenue, Reader's Digest emerged from bankruptcy last year to a spate of problems.

The New York Times

The sour results are the most recent in a spate of problems at Interpublic, which works for marketers like Coca-Cola, General Motors, Samsung and Unilever.

The New York Times

Mrs. Whitman acted after a spate of problems came to light in recent weeks, adding to Greystone's legacy as a sprawling, unwieldy center.

The New York Times

Although Fisker successfully brought its stylish Karma sedan to market in late 2011, the company has had a spate of problems in recent months, including a recall of more than 2,000 cars to replace a cooling fan.

The New York Times

She has cataloged a spate of problems in recent photographs: large patches of mold beneath linoleum floors, water stains along ceilings and roofs, cockroach droppings and holes in walls.

The New York Times

The controversy over offsetting is the latest blow to emissions trading, which has been racked by a spate of problems in Europe including cyberattacks, tax fraud and recycling of used credits.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But critics say it could lead to a housing bubble and a spate of problem loans on which the government could be left to make good.

The New York Times

Philip Pugliese, the bicycle coordinator there, said in an interview that the city had experienced a spate of docking problems.

The New York Times

Residents expressed frustration at the incident, which follows a spate of electrical problems that have plagued the area since January.

The New York Times

The war between New York City's two tabloids has also touched off a spate of labor problems at The Post's printing plant in Manhattan.

The New York Times

DealBook » Goldman Overcomes Its Latest Headache | A case brought by the founders of Dragon Systems was among a spate of legal problems and public relations headaches for Goldman in recent years, Peter Lattman reported.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a spate of problems", ensure that the problems are closely related in time or context. This strengthens the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "a spate of problems" to describe unrelated issues occurring over a long period. The phrase implies a concentrated burst of difficulties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a spate of problems" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a sudden or large number of issues occurring within a short time frame. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a spate of problems" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a sudden occurrence of multiple difficulties. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable across a variety of contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific writing, the expression maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, ensure the problems are closely related in time or context to maximize its impact. Alternatives like "a series of difficulties" or "a cluster of issues" can provide similar meaning while varying in tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of difficulties

Focuses on the sequential nature of the problems.

a cluster of issues

Emphasizes the grouping or concentration of problems.

a wave of troubles

Implies a surge or sudden onset of problems.

a run of bad luck

Suggests a period of misfortune or adverse events.

a streak of challenges

Highlights the ongoing and continuous nature of the problems.

a succession of setbacks

Emphasizes the sequential and negative impact of the problems.

a host of complications

Indicates a large number of interconnected and complex problems.

an outbreak of difficulties

Conveys a sense of sudden and widespread problems.

a plague of troubles

Emphasizes the severity and widespread nature of the problems, often with a negative connotation.

a bad patch

A more informal way to describe a difficult period.

FAQs

How can I use "a spate of problems" in a sentence?

You can use "a spate of problems" to describe a sudden series of difficulties. For example, "The project encountered "a spate of problems" during the final phase".

What are some alternatives to "a spate of problems"?

Alternatives include "a series of difficulties", "a cluster of issues", or "a wave of troubles" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a spate of problems" in formal writing?

Yes, "a spate of problems" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports, business documents, and academic papers. However, be mindful of the tone and ensure it aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What does "a spate of problems" imply about the nature of the difficulties?

"A spate of problems" suggests that the difficulties are happening in quick succession and are often unexpected. It conveys a sense of urgency or concern.