Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
basic problem is to
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "basic problem is to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a fundamental issue or challenge that needs to be addressed or solved. Example: "The basic problem is to find a sustainable solution to the energy crisis."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
9 human-written examples
The basic problem is to find the shapes of the leaves under bending.
Given the measurement vector and design matrix, the basic problem is to find an estimate of the parameter vector.
The novel feature is the use of information generated on the previous trial to compute the control input for the next one and the basic problem is to force the sequence of trial outputs to track a given reference signal.
Science
Our basic problem is to enumerate all chemical structures each of which is consistent with a given feature vector and the valence condition.
Science
Since the noise affects all the DCT values, the basic problem is to extract each block's features to correctly classify it.
Indeed, an even more basic problem is to account for the way in which "the fixed situation of the variously stimulated nerve extremities" becomes an object of consciousness at all (Micro, I, p. 307, cf. pp. 308 309).
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
51 human-written examples
These basic problems are to be avoided in the models for wide application.
Science
The innovator's basic strategic problem is to find the right mixture of price and promotion to maximize long-run profits.
News & Media
The basic control problem is to minimize the deflection and the velocity of displacements in a given period of time with the minimum possible expenditure of force.
The basic problem is simple to state: given the color palette from two images, what order should the colors appear in to make a meaningful comparison?
News & Media
The basic problem is easy to understand: More than half of the ingredients in the first estimate are based in whole or in part on projections from past months.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "basic problem is to", ensure that the statement clearly identifies the most fundamental issue that needs to be addressed before other related issues can be resolved.
Common error
Avoid using "basic problem is to" without first thoroughly examining all underlying assumptions related to the situation. Jumping to a conclusion about the basic problem without sufficient analysis can lead to ineffective solutions.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "basic problem is to" serves as an introductory phrase, highlighting the fundamental challenge or issue that needs to be addressed. Ludwig AI validates this usage through numerous real-world examples across diverse contexts.
Frequent in
Science
42%
News & Media
33%
Academia
25%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "basic problem is to" effectively introduces a core issue needing resolution. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and versatility. While not extremely common, its use spans across diverse fields such as science, news, and academia, often appearing in neutral and slightly formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the problem identified is indeed the most fundamental aspect requiring attention. Alternatives like "fundamental issue is to" or "main challenge is to" can offer subtle shifts in emphasis. By understanding its function and appropriate usage, writers can clearly define the scope of discussions and analyses.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
fundamental issue is to
Replaces "basic" with "fundamental", emphasizing the foundational nature of the problem.
main challenge is to
Substitutes "problem" with "challenge", highlighting the difficulty in addressing the issue.
core objective is to
Shifts focus from problem to objective, emphasizing the desired outcome.
primary goal is to
Replaces "problem" with "goal", highlighting the desired result.
key question is to
Frames the problem as a question that needs to be answered.
central task is to
Replaces "problem" with "task", emphasizing the work required to resolve it.
essential difficulty lies in
Changes the structure to focus on the location of the difficulty.
underlying concern is to
Highlights the root cause that needs attention.
initial hurdle is to
Emphasizes that the problem is the first obstacle to overcome.
starting point is to
Highlights the beginning stage of a process or solution.
FAQs
How can I use "basic problem is to" in a sentence?
You can use "basic problem is to" to introduce a fundamental issue that needs addressing. For example, "The "basic problem is to" ensure all citizens have access to clean water."
What are some alternatives to "basic problem is to"?
Alternatives include phrases like "fundamental issue is to", "main challenge is to", or "core objective is to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
What's the difference between "basic problem is to" and "primary problem is to"?
"Basic problem is to" emphasizes a foundational issue, while "primary problem is to" highlights the most significant or impactful problem among several.
Is it always necessary to use "is to" after identifying a problem?
No, you can rephrase to avoid "is to" if it sounds awkward. For example, instead of "The basic problem is to improve efficiency", you could say "The "basic problem" is a lack of efficiency."
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested