an internal problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an internal problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an issue or difficulty that exists within a specific organization, system, or group. Example: "The team is currently addressing an internal problem that has been affecting productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

It is an internal problem of Russia.

The New York Times

In Russia, it is an internal problem.

The New York Times

It's an internal problem – in-out, not out-in.

The Guardian

India rejects the idea, arguing that the turmoil in Kashmir is an internal problem.

The New York Times

In Europe it is largely an internal problem of home-grown Muslim extremists.

The Economist

Luxembourg's prime minister, Xavier Bettel, claimed May had called the election to resolve an internal problem in the Conservative party.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

–Subpoint 3: Developing a product or process to solve a vexing internal problem, aka intrapreneurship, is a great way to reinvigorate your job and increase your visibility.

Forbes

By inviting outsiders into the investigation, the Sheriff's Department would share an embarrassing internal problem with outside agencies.

Los Angeles Times

This did not amount to a renunciation of the use of force against Taiwan, which Peking deems to be a province of China and therefore a strictly internal problem.

The New York Times

Weakness is often the result of muscular weakness which, if it comes on suddenly, could be the result of a serious internal problem such as internal bleeding, or a potentially serious electrolyte imbalance.

WikiHow

But Lord Tebbit, a former party chairman, appeared to have caused Mr. Hague a fresh internal problem today by declaring that the lesson of the Oldham rioting was that multi-ethnic societies did not work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an internal problem", clearly define the scope and context of the issue. Specify within which organization, system, or entity the problem exists to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid vague uses of "an internal problem" without specifying its specific location. For instance, instead of saying "the company has an internal problem", specify "the marketing department has an internal communication problem."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an internal problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a difficulty or issue that originates and exists within a specific entity, such as an organization or system, as demonstrated by the examples presented by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an internal problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe issues originating within an entity. According to Ludwig, the phrase is most commonly found in "News & Media", "Science", and "Formal & Business" contexts and carries a neutral to professional tone. It is crucial to clearly define the scope of the problem when using this phrase. Consider alternatives like "a domestic issue" or "a systemic fault" to provide greater context. The analysis from Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a domestic issue

Focuses on the issue being confined within a specific region or entity.

an inherent issue

Highlights that the problem is intrinsic and deeply rooted.

a systemic fault

Emphasizes that the problem is embedded within a larger system.

a structural weakness

Indicates a flaw in the fundamental structure or design.

an organizational challenge

Specifically relates the problem to the structure or management of an organization.

an in-house matter

Suggests the issue is handled internally within the organization.

a localized difficulty

Highlights that the problem is limited to a specific area or group.

a company-specific problem

Specifies that the problem is unique to a particular company.

a private difficulty

Indicates that the issue should be resolved confidentially.

a personnel matter

Relates the problem directly to employees or staff.

FAQs

How can I use "an internal problem" in a sentence?

You can use "an internal problem" to describe issues within an organization, system, or group. For example: "The company is addressing "an internal problem" that affects productivity."

What can I say instead of "an internal problem"?

Alternatives include "a domestic issue", "a systemic fault", or "an organizational challenge", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to disclose "an internal problem" to external stakeholders?

Whether to disclose "an internal problem" depends on the nature of the issue and its potential impact. Transparency can build trust, but discretion may be necessary to protect sensitive information.

What steps should be taken when addressing "an internal problem"?

Common steps include identifying the root cause, developing a solution, implementing changes, and monitoring progress. Seeking expert advice or consulting with stakeholders may also be beneficial.