a succession of problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a succession of problems" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of issues or challenges that occur one after another. Example: "The project faced a succession of problems, including budget overruns and staffing shortages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It has been dogged by a succession of problems incuding a £390 million settlement for rate-fixing, a £1.1 billion provision for mis-selling and a £175 million IT fiasco.

Independent

Kabba was presenting the Crewe defence with a succession of problems at the other end but was not involved in the move that resulted in his side's second goal.

The Guardian - Sport

Like the Book of Job (of which the film is an affluent southern California version), This Is 40 has a succession of problems rather than a plot, and over a few days towards the end of 2012 three generations of the same family confront them.

The Guardian - Film

The council intends to tackle a succession of problems affecting funding agencies around the world using regional meetings to hash out language that will be presented at the conclusion of an annual gathering held at a different site each year.

Science Magazine

Security Chief Odo (René Auberjonois) is having a succession of problems with Klingons.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

l (1877; Pillars of Society) was the first of a succession of problem dramas by Ibsen to win him worldwide fame.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Responding to a succession of financial problems, the Coconut Grove Playhouse in Miami laid off 14 of its 28 employees over the weekend, The Miami Herald reported.

The New York Times

The England and Leicester scrum-half Harry Ellis has retired after conceding defeat in his battle to overcome a succession of knee problems.

The Guardian - Sport

Clancy has been at Easter Road since the summer of 2012, but the 29-year-old former Kilmarnock and Motherwell defender has been dogged by a succession of injury problems.

BBC

"Following a succession of financial problems, we dropped down from the Conference, so we're not the club that we were.

BBC

After overcoming a succession of injury problems early in his career, Gerrard quickly became a permanent fixture in both the Liverpool and England midfield but the last 14 months have been described as a "nightmare" by the Whiston-born player.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a succession of problems", ensure the context clearly indicates a series of related or unrelated issues occurring one after another. This phrase effectively conveys a sense of ongoing difficulty or challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "a succession of problems" for minor inconveniences. This phrase implies significant challenges or difficulties, so reserve it for situations where the issues are genuinely problematic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a succession of problems" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a series or sequence of difficulties or challenges, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a succession of problems" is a noun phrase used to describe a series of difficulties or challenges occurring one after another. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. While suitable for various contexts, including news and scientific discussions, it is particularly effective in conveying a sense of ongoing difficulty. Related phrases include "a series of issues" or "a chain of difficulties", offering nuanced alternatives for more precise communication. When using this phrase, ensure that the context accurately reflects a series of significant issues, avoiding its application to minor inconveniences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of issues

Emphasizes a sequence of distinct difficulties, potentially less severe than "problems".

a chain of difficulties

Highlights the interconnected nature of the problems, suggesting one leads to another.

a string of setbacks

Focuses on the hindering aspect of the problems, emphasizing delays and obstacles.

a plague of troubles

Implies a widespread and burdensome nature of the problems, often with negative connotations.

a run of bad luck

Attributing the problems to chance or misfortune, rather than inherent causes.

a wave of crises

Indicates a sudden and overwhelming influx of critical problems.

a cluster of challenges

Suggests a group of difficult tasks or situations that need to be overcome.

a spate of incidents

Highlights a sudden increase in the occurrence of specific problem events.

an epidemic of failures

Emphasizes a widespread and escalating pattern of unsuccessful outcomes.

a litany of woes

Highlights a long and mournful list of problems.

FAQs

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

You can use "a succession of problems" to describe a series of issues that occur one after another. For example, "The company faced "a succession of problems" during the product launch, including supply chain disruptions and marketing missteps."

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

Alternatives to "a succession of problems" include "a series of issues", "a chain of difficulties", or "a string of setbacks", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a succession of problems" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe a series of difficulties. However, consider whether a more specific or impactful phrase might be more appropriate for your context.

What's the difference between "a succession of problems" and "some problems"?

"A succession of problems" implies a series of connected or sequential issues, while "some problems" simply indicates the existence of multiple issues without specifying their relationship or timing. The former suggests a more prolonged or complex situation.