a systemic problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"a systemic problem" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a problem or issue that is part of a larger system or structure and is not just an isolated incident. Example: "Corruption in the government is not just a few bad individuals, it is a systemic problem that needs to be addressed at a higher level."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is a systemic problem.

The Guardian - Business

"It is a systemic problem".

The New York Times

Was it a systemic problem?

The New York Times

"This is a systemic problem.

The New York Times

A systemic problem demands systemic change.

The New York Times

"It's not indicating a systemic problem".

The New York Times

It really is a systemic problem".

The New York Times

Homophobia remains a systemic problem in Australia.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's a systemic problem," says Davies.

The Guardian - Tech

"There's a systemic problem," he said.

The New York Times

"There clearly was a systemic problem".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing organizational challenges, use "a systemic problem" to indicate that the issue is not isolated but affects the entire structure, requiring comprehensive solutions.

Common error

Avoid attributing "a systemic problem" to individual incompetence or isolated incidents. Systemic issues require addressing underlying processes and structures, not just blaming individuals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a systemic problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and categorizes an issue as one that is deeply ingrained within a system, not merely an isolated occurrence, as exemplified in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a systemic problem" is a noun phrase used to describe issues deeply embedded within a system's structure, not merely isolated incidents. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic writing. Given its frequency and the authoritative sources that employ it, understanding and using this phrase correctly is essential for effective communication. When you want to emphasize that an issue is widespread and requires comprehensive solutions, "a systemic problem" is an apt and impactful choice. Remember to avoid attributing systemic issues to individual failures and instead focus on the underlying processes that perpetuate the problem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deeply rooted problem

Emphasizes the problem's entrenchment and difficulty to eradicate.

a structural issue

Focuses on the problem being related to the underlying structure or framework.

a deep-seated issue

Indicates the problem is firmly established and difficult to change.

an ingrained issue

Similar to 'deeply rooted', but with an emphasis on its integration.

a widespread issue

Focuses on the breadth of the problem rather than its embedded nature.

a pervasive problem

Emphasizes the problem's spread and influence throughout the system.

a fundamental flaw

Highlights a basic or essential fault within a system.

an endemic problem

Suggests that the problem is native or natural to the system.

an institutional problem

Highlights that the problem is within an institution or organization.

a chronic issue

Highlights that the problem is persistent and long-lasting.

FAQs

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

You can use "a systemic problem" to describe issues that are deeply ingrained within a system or organization. For example, "The company's low employee retention rate is not due to isolated incidents but a "systemic problem" related to its management structure."

What's the difference between "a systemic problem" and "an isolated incident"?

"A systemic problem" refers to issues that are inherent and widespread within a system, while "an isolated incident" is a one-time occurrence that is not indicative of broader issues. Addressing a systemic problem requires changes to the underlying structures or processes, while an isolated incident may only require individual correction.

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

You can use alternatives like "a widespread issue", "a deeply rooted problem", or "an institutional problem" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a systemic problem" in formal writing?

Yes, "a systemic problem" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing complex issues in academic, business, or policy contexts. It clearly indicates that the problem is not isolated but rather embedded within the system's structure.