a weighty problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a weighty problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or serious issue that requires careful consideration or thought. Example: "The committee is currently addressing a weighty problem that could impact the future of our organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science & Research

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Why elephants aren't riddled with tumors poses a weighty problem for researchers.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It first raised funding for its approach to building a virtual, on-demand workforce, and now it's trying to bring that distributed team to bear on another weighty problem: building up a user base.

TechCrunch

Perhaps so, but in this case they have handed the Americans a far weightier problem than simply wondering whether they have good intelligence and whether that intelligence can be trusted.

Huffington Post

Covering seventy-four pages in the English version, it purports to speak the council's mind on a number of weighty problems not fully or adequately dealt with in other Council texts.

The New Yorker

It was not unusual to see Mr. Clinton lead guests to the White House mess for a late-night snack and for some intense discussion on any one of a number of weighty problems.

The New York Times

Even as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority seeks to overcome a $1.2 billon shortfall with fare increases and service cuts, an even weightier problem looms: The authority is uncertain how it will pay for a five-year capital spending plan that could cost as much as $30 billion.

The New York Times

It is rare to see a movie present such weighty problems and offer nonsimplistic, practical solutions in story form.

The New York Times

Anderson is described as amiable, with a reservation: Lately, however, there had been a distinct feeling of strain and a kind of spiritual absence, as if he were turning weighty problems over in his mind.

The New Yorker

In 1951, he wrote to his friend the writer Howard Brubaker, "I started to get out a light magazine that wouldn't concern itself with the weighty problems of the universe, and now look at me".

The New Yorker

Ross wrote wearily in 1951, "I started to get out a light magazine that wouldn't concern itself with the weighty problems of the universe, and now look at me".

The New Yorker

Anderson is described as amiable, with a reservation: **{:.break one} ** Lately, however, there had been a distinct feeling of strain and a kind of spiritual absence, as if he were turning weighty problems over in his mind.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a weighty problem", ensure the context clearly indicates the significance and potential impact of the issue being discussed. This phrase is suitable for formal or serious contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a weighty problem" in casual or informal settings where a simpler phrase like "a big issue" or "a tough problem" would be more appropriate. Overusing formal language can sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a weighty problem" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It typically identifies a significant or serious issue requiring careful consideration. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage, highlighting instances where the phrase is used to describe substantial challenges.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a weighty problem" is a grammatically correct expression used to denote a significant or serious issue that demands careful consideration. While Ludwig AI indicates that it is acceptable, it's more suited for formal or neutral contexts, such as news reports, scientific articles, or professional communications. Alternatives like ""a serious issue"" or ""a significant challenge"" may be more appropriate in casual settings. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to maintain a natural and effective communication style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant issue

Focuses on the importance of the problem.

a serious concern

Highlights the worrying nature of the problem.

a grave matter

Emphasizes the severe and critical aspect of the problem.

a complex challenge

Highlights the intricate and difficult nature of the problem.

a substantial difficulty

Indicates the significant impact and scale of the problem.

a considerable predicament

Emphasizes the challenging and uncertain situation.

a pressing issue

Highlights the urgency and need for immediate attention.

a formidable obstacle

Stresses the difficulty in overcoming the problem.

a critical dilemma

Focuses on the crucial decision-making aspect of the problem.

an onerous task

Highlights the burdensome nature of addressing the problem.

FAQs

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

"A weighty problem" is used to describe a significant or serious issue that requires careful consideration. Example: "The company is currently addressing "a weighty problem" that could impact its long-term sustainability."

What are some alternatives to "a weighty problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a serious issue", "a significant challenge", or "a grave matter", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a weighty problem" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "a weighty problem" might sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using more relaxed alternatives such as "a big problem" or "a tough issue" in informal settings.

What makes a problem "weighty"?

A "weighty" problem is one that carries significant consequences, requires substantial effort to resolve, and often involves complex considerations. The term implies that the problem should be taken seriously and addressed thoughtfully.