an underlying problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"an underlying problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to an issue or difficulty that exists beneath the surface and is causing some kind of problem. For example, "There seems to be an underlying problem in our relationship that we need to discuss and fix."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

For all the industry's hype, said Hatch, there is an underlying problem.

The Guardian - Business

"I realized there was an underlying problem that needed a solution," he said.

The New York Times

These figures show an underlying problem in recruitment and retention that the government needs to address".

The Guardian

When do exceptions proving a rule actually become an indicator of an underlying problem?

The Guardian

The ongoing debate overlooks an underlying problem with the Affordable Care Act.

The New York Times

Gulati says that these false starts are often indicative of an underlying problem.

Harvard Business Review

But even if it is approved, Mr. Petrilli said, it would leave an underlying problem unresolved.

The New York Times

Nonetheless, he recognises an underlying problem with the decline in listening hours among young people.

Independent

Even if a taxi never encounters a slowdown, clues from the trip can indicate an underlying problem with urban planning.

MIT Technology Review

But an underlying problem with these proposed changes is that the primary focus remains on the money.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A metaheuristic can be seen as a general-purpose heuristic method designed to guide an underlying problem-specific heuristic.

BMC Systems Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an underlying problem", ensure you clearly articulate the surface issue it connects to, providing context for your audience to understand the deeper implications.

Common error

Avoid solely addressing surface symptoms without investigating the root cause. If you consistently treat symptoms but the issue persists, there's likely "an underlying problem" that needs direct attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an underlying problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies an issue that is not immediately apparent but is the root cause of a more visible problem. Ludwig AI confirms its standard grammatical use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an underlying problem" effectively communicates a hidden or fundamental issue that requires attention. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and general discussions. Identifying "an underlying problem" is critical for providing long-term, sustainable solutions, rather than merely addressing surface-level symptoms. When using this phrase, clarity and context are key to ensure the audience understands the deeper implications of the issue at hand. Related phrases such as "a root cause" or "a fundamental issue" can be used as alternatives to further clarify the nature of the problem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fundamental issue

Emphasizes the basic or essential nature of the problem.

a root cause

Focuses on the origin or source of the problem.

a core challenge

Emphasizes the central or most important difficulty.

a deep-seated problem

Indicates the problem is firmly established and difficult to change.

a hidden difficulty

Highlights the concealed or not easily noticeable aspect of the problem.

a concealed issue

Highlights that the issue is hidden or not immediately apparent.

a latent issue

Suggests the problem exists but is not currently active or developed.

an intrinsic flaw

Points to a defect or weakness inherent in the system or situation.

a structural weakness

Identifies a weakness in the organization or framework.

a foundational defect

Highlights a problem in the base or structure of something.

FAQs

How can I identify "an underlying problem"?

Look for recurring issues, persistent symptoms despite treatment, or inconsistencies in expected outcomes. These can indicate a deeper, "an underlying problem".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "an underlying problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a root cause", "a fundamental issue", or "a hidden difficulty" depending on the context.

Why is it important to address "an underlying problem"?

Addressing the surface issue won't provide a long-term solution. By identifying and tackling "an underlying problem", you ensure sustainable and effective resolution.

Can ignoring "an underlying problem" have negative consequences?

Yes, ignoring "an underlying problem" can lead to recurring issues, worsening conditions, and potentially more complex problems in the future.