avoid the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "avoid the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing strategies or approaches to prevent an issue from occurring or to sidestep a challenge. Example: "In order to maintain a positive work environment, it's essential to address conflicts directly rather than simply trying to avoid the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"They rearrange their lives to avoid the problem.

The New York Times

Were you purposely trying to avoid the problem of credibility?

The New Yorker

"It's hard to avoid the problem," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

New preparations have been developed to avoid the problem.

The New York Times - Science

Doughnuts originally had a nut in the middle to avoid the problem of undercooked centres.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We want to avoid the problem of urban slums seen in Latin America," Mr. Wen said.

The New York Times

Some financial planners favor buying only no-load funds as a way to avoid the problem.

The New York Times

Spain is trying to avoid the problem of an ageing population, rather than adapting to it.

The Guardian

The judge said the prosecutors had failed to take "common sense precautions" to avoid the problem.

The New York Times

Space shuttles avoid the problem by communicating with ground-based satellite dishes that move mechanically to follow their flight.

The New York Times - Tech

This year, the calendar committee of the Guam Department of Education decided to avoid the problem by closing school.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "avoid the problem", consider if you're merely postponing it. Sometimes, addressing an issue head-on leads to a more lasting solution.

Common error

Be cautious not to equate avoiding a problem with solving it. While avoidance can provide temporary relief, it often leads to the problem resurfacing or escalating later on.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "avoid the problem" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intention. It describes the reason behind an action, indicating a desire to prevent an undesirable outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "avoid the problem" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions taken to prevent issues from arising. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity, supported by numerous examples from diverse sources, including news, science, and general writing. While its neutral register makes it widely applicable, it's important to remember that avoidance isn't always the best strategy and should be carefully considered in relation to potential long-term consequences. Alternatives like "sidestep the issue" or "prevent the problem" can offer nuanced ways to express similar intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prevent the problem

Focuses on stopping the problem from happening in the first place.

sidestep the difficulty

A direct alternative focusing on the act of stepping aside from a difficulty.

sidestep the issue

Focuses on evading the core issue directly.

circumvent the difficulty

Suggests finding a way around an obstacle.

evade the challenge

Emphasizes dodging or escaping a difficult situation.

dodge the issue

Implies quick or clever avoidance.

steer clear of the problem

Highlights deliberate avoidance and maintaining distance.

bypass the complication

Suggests going around a complex element.

forestall the difficulty

Indicates preventing a difficulty before it arises.

mitigate the issue

Reducing the severity or impact, rather than avoiding it completely.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "avoid the problem" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "sidestep the issue", "circumvent the difficulty", or "prevent the problem" depending on the specific context.

What does it mean to "avoid the problem"?

To "avoid the problem" means to take actions or make decisions that prevent a difficulty or issue from occurring, or to deliberately stay away from a situation that could cause problems.

Is it always a good idea to "avoid the problem"?

While sometimes avoiding a problem can be a strategic short-term solution, it's generally better to address issues directly to prevent them from escalating or recurring. Consider whether "mitigating the issue" might be a better approach.

What is the difference between "avoid the problem" and "solve the problem"?

"Avoid the problem" means preventing an issue from arising or sidestepping it, whereas "solve the problem" means finding a solution to an existing issue and resolving it.