admit the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "admit the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when acknowledging the existence of an issue or difficulty in a discussion or analysis. Example: "In order to find a solution, we must first admit the problem that has been affecting our team's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

If they admit the problem, that will get them into legal trouble.

The Economist

Politicians and senior managers must admit the problem and deal with it.

The Guardian

They say the first way to treat a problem is to admit the problem exists.

The Guardian

If universities admit the problem at all, the most they are likely to do is introduce new top grades.

The Economist

And after initially refusing to admit the problem, the Bangladeshi government has adopted a national arsenic mitigation strategy.

The New York Times

To tackle the problem in today's China, the authors suggest that national and local governments admit the problem and commit money to it.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Mr Shin was forced to admit the problems with his story after other defectors in South Korea began questioning his version of events and threatened to expose him.

Independent

"If George Bush can't see the problems," Mr. Kerry said, "and he's not willing to admit the problems, and he can't talk to America about the problems, you can't lead America to solve the problems".

The New York Times

Few want to admit the problems publically.

Huffington Post

We can't start working on improvement until we admit the problems.

Huffington Post

When I ask Nathan if they've had trouble keeping up with their increased popularity, he's not shy to admit the problems that it creates.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "admit the problem" when you want to emphasize the importance of acknowledging a difficulty before addressing it.

Common error

Don't assume that simply "admitting the problem" is enough. Acknowledgment is only the first step; concrete action is essential for actual resolution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "admit the problem" functions as a declarative statement used to acknowledge the existence of an issue. As Ludwig AI points out, this acknowledgement often serves as a preliminary step towards addressing said problem.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "admit the problem" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for acknowledging the existence of an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, highlighting its role as a necessary first step in problem-solving. While the phrase is not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, indicating its versatility. Related phrases such as "acknowledge the issue" and "recognize the problem" offer similar meanings, with slight variations in formality and emphasis. Remember that while "admitting the problem" is crucial, it is only the initial step towards resolution, requiring subsequent action and solutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acknowledge the issue

Focuses on recognizing the existence of a difficulty or concern, often in a more formal or neutral context.

recognize the problem

Similar to "acknowledge the issue", but emphasizes a more cognitive understanding of the problem's nature.

accept the existence of the problem

Focuses on agreeing that a problem truly exists, often in the face of doubt or denial.

concede the difficulty

Implies a reluctant admission of a problem, often after initial resistance or denial.

own up to the mistake

Highlights taking responsibility for an error that caused the problem, rather than just acknowledging its existence.

face the reality of the situation

Emphasizes confronting the truth of a challenging situation, which may involve admitting a problem.

come to terms with the issue

Suggests a process of accepting and understanding a problem, often involving emotional adjustment.

confess the predicament

Emphasizes admitting a difficult or dangerous situation, often with a sense of urgency or vulnerability.

fess up to the trouble

An informal way of admitting a problem, often implying a sense of guilt or wrongdoing.

own the problem

This goes beyond admitting, to signify taking responsibility for finding the solution.

FAQs

What does "admit the problem" mean?

"Admit the problem" means to acknowledge and recognize the existence of an issue, difficulty, or challenge. It implies accepting that something is wrong and needs attention.

Why is it important to "admit the problem"?

"Admitting the problem" is often the first step towards finding a solution. By acknowledging the issue, you can begin to understand its causes and develop strategies to address it effectively. Failing to "recognize the problem" can lead to further complications.

What can I say instead of "admit the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "acknowledge the issue", "recognize the problem", or "concede the difficulty", depending on the context.

Is "admit the problem" formal or informal?

"Admit the problem" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the specific situation and audience should always be considered to ensure the appropriateness of the language.