aggravating the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "aggravating the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions or situations that worsen an existing issue. Example: "The lack of communication among team members is aggravating the problem of project delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

He faulted lifestyle changes for aggravating the problem.

The New York Times

And Waitrose has inadvertently moved towards aggravating the problem, as it endeavours to sanitise our lunchtime.

The Guardian

"He was made available for selection before aggravating the problem in training," said Davies.

The Guardian - Sport

Journalists, he told me, were aggravating the problem they had helped to start.

The New Yorker

Further aggravating the problem are a series of corruption scandals and calls for Ms. Rousseff's impeachment.

The New York Times

Aggravating the problem is declining enrollment caused by families moving out of Phoenix because of the economic crisis as well as the state's aggressive crackdown on illegal immigration.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Because of Germany's great size, its slowdown is aggravating the problems of neighboring countries.

The New York Times

State and local governments continue to cut jobs, aggravating the problems in the private sector.

The New York Times

Those of a more isolationist bent will argue: It's none of our business, and the United States usually ends up aggravating the problems we swoop in to solve.

Huffington Post

It remains unclear if the trip to Houston aggravated the problem.

The New York Times

Yet that aggravates the problem.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "aggravating the problem", ensure the context clearly identifies the original problem being worsened. Specificity enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "aggravating the problem" if the action is actually the primary cause. Ensure that the action genuinely worsens an existing issue, not creates one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "aggravating the problem" functions as a verbal phrase that modifies a noun (the problem). It describes an action or situation that intensifies or worsens a pre-existing issue. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "aggravating the problem" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes the act of making an existing problem worse. According to Ludwig AI, its frequent appearance across various sources, especially in News & Media and Science contexts, makes it a valuable expression in formal, professional, and neutral registers. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly identifies the original issue. Consider using alternatives such as "worsening the problem" or "exacerbating the problem" for nuanced emphasis. Remember that clear writing identifies if the action truly worsens an existing issue, not creates one, which will improve clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worsening the problem

Emphasizes the process of the problem becoming more severe.

exacerbating the problem

Highlights making the problem more intense or bitter.

compounding the problem

Focuses on adding to the existing difficulties.

intensifying the problem

Stresses increasing the strength or degree of the problem.

inflaming the problem

Suggests causing the problem to become more heated or agitated.

heightening the problem

Emphasizes making the problem more prominent or noticeable.

escalating the problem

Focuses on the problem's rapid increase in severity or scope.

aggravating the situation

Broader term referring to worsening any set of circumstances not necessarily a specific "problem".

complicating the matter

Suggests making something more difficult or intricate.

fuelling the fire

Idiomatic expression indicating something that makes a bad situation worse.

FAQs

What does "aggravating the problem" mean?

The phrase "aggravating the problem" means making an existing problem worse or more serious. It suggests that something is adding to the difficulties or intensity of the situation.

How can I use "aggravating the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "aggravating the problem" to describe an action or situation that is worsening an existing issue. For example, "His constant complaining is "worsening the problem" and making it difficult to find a solution."

What are some alternatives to "aggravating the problem"?

Some alternatives to "aggravating the problem" include "exacerbating the problem", "worsening the problem", or "compounding the problem". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "aggravating the problem" and "aggravating the situation"?

"Aggravating the problem" refers specifically to making a defined problem worse. "Aggravating the situation" is a broader term, referring to worsening a set of circumstances, not necessarily a specific "problem".