a symptom of this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a symptom of this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is a sign or indication of a larger issue or condition. Example: "The increase in anxiety among students is a symptom of this broader societal problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

I am a symptom of this problem".

The New York Times

I am a symptom of this change.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Selfies are a symptom of this.

The Guardian

Meth is a symptom of this collapse, not a cause.

The New York Times

The typical hangover headache is a symptom of this.

Independent

Is the media a symptom of this problem or a cause?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

"The drug problem is a symptom of the feeling that this is all there is and it's not going to get any better," Thompson-Glickman said.

Los Angeles Times

However, the fragility of the "military covenant" is a symptom of the imbalance in what this government expects our armed forces to achieve and the human cost required.

The Guardian - Opinion

I see her election as a symptom of longer trends in this cartel that seems to be broken".

The Guardian

[W]hat you're seeing around the word now is that Trump is just a symptom of a larger problem, this area of populism and nationalism.

Vice

Is this a symptom of a deeper malaise?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a symptom of this", ensure the "this" clearly refers to a previously mentioned problem or condition. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the connection between the symptom and its underlying cause.

Common error

Avoid using "a symptom of this" without a clear antecedent for "this". A vague reference weakens your argument and confuses the reader. Always ensure the reader knows exactly what "this" refers to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a symptom of this" functions as a noun phrase, serving to identify something as an indicator or manifestation of a broader problem or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77.19%

Science

12.28%

Encyclopedias

3.51%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3.51%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a symptom of this" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote that something is indicative of a larger underlying issue. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, followed by science and encyclopedias. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to ensure a clear reference for "this" to avoid ambiguity. Related alternatives include "an indication of this" and "a sign of this", each carrying slight nuances in meaning. When employing this phrase, clarity and precise reference are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an indication of this

Replaces "symptom" with "indication", suggesting a sign or signal rather than a direct manifestation of a problem; emphasizes suggestiveness.

a sign of this

Substitutes "symptom" with "sign", implying an observable marker that points to a larger issue; focuses on observability.

a manifestation of this

Replaces "symptom" with "manifestation", indicating a clear and direct display or embodiment of something; emphasizes directness.

a consequence of this

Replaces "symptom" with "consequence", highlighting that the subject is a result or outcome; focuses on causality.

a result of this

Similar to "a consequence of this", but with a slightly broader meaning, indicating any outcome or effect.

a product of this

Implies that the subject is created or generated by something, emphasizing origin.

an effect of this

Focuses on the subject being the outcome or impact of a cause; emphasizes impact.

an outgrowth of this

Suggests that the subject developed or emerged naturally from something; emphasizes natural development.

a reflection of this

Implies that the subject mirrors or represents something else, emphasizing representational quality.

attributable to this

Indicates that the subject can be assigned or credited to something; emphasizes assignability.

FAQs

How can I use "a symptom of this" in a sentence?

You can use "a symptom of this" to indicate that something is a sign or indication of a larger, underlying problem. For example, "Increased absenteeism is "a symptom of this" widespread dissatisfaction among employees."

What phrases are similar to "a symptom of this"?

Similar phrases include "an indication of this", "a sign of this", and "a manifestation of this". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to be described as "a symptom of this"?

While "a symptom" often implies a negative underlying condition, it's not always inherently negative. It simply indicates that something is indicative of something else, which could be positive, neutral, or negative depending on the context.

How can I avoid misusing the phrase "a symptom of this"?

Ensure that the "this" has a clear and unambiguous referent in your writing. Without a clear antecedent, the phrase becomes vague and loses its effectiveness. Be sure what "this" is referring to.