add to the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "add to the problem" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe actions or situations that contribute to an existing issue or difficulty. For example: - "Your reckless behavior only adds to the problem we are facing." - "Cutting down more trees will only add to the problem of deforestation." - "The confusing instructions just added to the problem of assembling the furniture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Travel publications can add to the problem.

The New York Times - Travel

Soaring oil output will add to the problem.

The New York Times

The forthcoming comprehensive spending review will add to the problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

To add to the problem, the federal fuel tax has not been increased since 1993.

The Economist

In a world of (mostly) floating exchange rates, cross-border capital flows add to the problem.

The Economist

And it's not just paper documents: everything created before digital media can add to the problem.

The New York Times

Retailers peddling cheap and badly made clothes, totally lacking in style, add to the problem.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Far from tackling poor quality, the 3 million target will only add to the problem.

The Guardian

It makes no sense to add to the problem by cutting public spending, too.

The New York Times

Rising ocean temperatures, the power source of hurricanes, and rising sea level, add to the problem.

The Guardian

Lower interest rates would simply add to the problem, generating higher credit growth, inflation and asset prices.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "add to the problem", ensure that the context clearly identifies the existing problem being exacerbated. This provides clarity and impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "add to the problem" when the core issue isn't clearly established. Make sure the original problem is evident to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add to the problem" functions as a verb phrase indicating that something contributes to making an existing problem worse. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, such as environmental issues or economic difficulties, reinforcing its role in describing an aggravating factor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "add to the problem" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe actions or situations that worsen an existing issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is frequently found in news, media, and scientific contexts, indicating its broad applicability. To use it effectively, ensure the existing problem is clearly identified in your writing. Related phrases like "aggravate the situation" or "exacerbate the issue" can serve as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoiding vagueness about the primary issue will enhance the clarity and impact of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aggravate the situation

Focuses on making the current situation worse, emphasizing the negative impact.

exacerbate the issue

Highlights the act of making a problem more severe or intense.

compound the difficulty

Stresses the combination of factors that make the problem more complex.

worsen the predicament

Emphasizes the negative development of an already difficult situation.

fuel the crisis

Suggests providing more resources or energy to an escalating problem.

intensify the challenge

Indicates an increase in the strength or degree of an existing challenge.

magnify the concern

Implies making the concern seem larger or more significant.

contribute to the mess

Suggests involvement in making a situation more disorganized or chaotic.

pour fuel on the fire

Emphasizes actions that make an already volatile situation even worse.

deepen the divide

Focuses on widening a gap or disagreement, making it more pronounced.

FAQs

How can I use "add to the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "add to the problem" to indicate that something is making an existing issue worse. For instance, "Ignoring the warning signs will only "add to the problem" of climate change."

What phrases are similar to "add to the problem"?

Alternatives to "add to the problem" include "aggravate the situation", "exacerbate the issue", or "worsen the predicament". These phrases convey a similar meaning of intensifying an existing difficulty.

Is it better to use "add to the problem" or "solve the problem"?

The choice depends on the context. "Add to the problem" describes actions that worsen a situation, while "solve the problem" refers to actions that resolve it. They are opposites and used in different contexts.

Can "add to the problem" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "add to the problem" is suitable for formal writing. While it's a common phrase, it is clear and professional, making it appropriate for various contexts, from news reports to academic papers.