an ongoing conundrum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an ongoing conundrum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or puzzle that is continuously present and not easily resolved. Example: "The issue of climate change remains an ongoing conundrum for scientists and policymakers alike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Raising revenue online is an ongoing conundrum, especially now that 200 million people worldwide are using ad blocking technology, costing $22bn £14.25bnn) in ad revenues.

Independent

It orchestrates an ongoing conundrum of moderating a balance between synergism through multitargeting kinase inhibition and minimizing off-target toxicities.

Drug Discovery Today

It remains an ongoing conundrum whether an increased level of autophagy is required in C. elegans for longevity extension conferred by the deficiency of GTPase RHEB-1 [ 97], the transcription faction hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) [ 98] and its negative regulator VHL-1 [ 99], the ubiquitin ligase WWP-1 [ 100], as well as the chaperones CCT4 and CCT6 [ 101].

Aging

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

African and EU leaders met in Malta this week to try to find new solutions for an ongoing political conundrum: the increasing number refugees travelling to Europe to seek safety.

The Guardian

What is the solution to this ongoing conundrum?

Huffington Post

He has not only the skill but the life experience to assist in shedding light on this ongoing American conundrum.

Huffington Post

Sandler recently appeared on the David Letterman show to promote "Blended" and in many ways it neatly encapsulated much of the ongoing Sandler conundrum.

Los Angeles Times

This is a bit of a conundrum.

TechCrunch

This presents a bit of a conundrum.

Plosone

It is an old conundrum.

The New Yorker

This presents an odd conundrum.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an ongoing conundrum", ensure that the context clearly establishes the long-term and puzzling nature of the problem being described. Use it when a simpler term like "problem" doesn't adequately convey the complexity and persistence of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "conundrum" for minor or easily solvable problems. The term is best reserved for situations that genuinely present a complex and baffling challenge that defies easy solutions. Using it too liberally can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an ongoing conundrum" functions as a noun phrase that describes a situation, problem, or issue. It characterizes the subject as continuously perplexing and difficult to resolve. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an ongoing conundrum" effectively describes a persistent and perplexing problem, suitable for neutral to formal contexts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. It's most frequently found in news and scientific domains, signaling complex and unresolved matters. While the phrase is valid, it's best reserved for situations genuinely deserving of the term, avoiding overuse in simple scenarios. Alternatives like "a persistent dilemma" or "a continuing puzzle" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a persistent dilemma

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

a continuing puzzle

Emphasizes the baffling and mysterious nature of the situation.

a recurring problem

Highlights the repetitive nature of the issue.

a chronic difficulty

Stresses the long-lasting and troublesome aspect of the challenge.

an enduring mystery

Suggests the problem is likely to remain unsolved for a considerable time.

a sustained challenge

Emphasizes the need for continuous effort to address the issue.

a perpetual question

Highlights the lack of a definitive answer and ongoing debate.

a lingering issue

Focuses on the problem's persistence and resistance to resolution.

a constant struggle

Emphasizes the effort and difficulty involved in dealing with the situation.

an unresolved matter

Highlights that the problem has not been settled or decided.

FAQs

How can I use "an ongoing conundrum" in a sentence?

Use "an ongoing conundrum" to describe a problem or situation that is both complex and persistent, like "The funding of public education remains "an ongoing conundrum" for many states".

What are some alternatives to "an ongoing conundrum"?

You can use alternatives like "a persistent dilemma", "a continuing puzzle", or "a recurring problem" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "ongoing problem" or "ongoing conundrum"?

"Ongoing problem" is more general and suitable for everyday issues. "Ongoing conundrum" implies a more complex and perplexing situation that is difficult to resolve.

What makes a situation qualify as "an ongoing conundrum"?

A situation qualifies as "an ongoing conundrum" when it presents a complex, persistent, and seemingly unsolvable problem, often involving conflicting factors or unclear solutions.