be a big problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a big problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something will cause significant issues or difficulties. Example: "If we don't address this issue soon, it will be a big problem for our project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Breathing can be a big problem".

The New Yorker

Food temperature can be a big problem.

The New York Times

That might be a big problem.

The Guardian

But Mr. Romney would be a big problem for him.

The New York Times

There will be a big problem later on".

Independent

"Air-conditioning can be a big problem for us.

The New York Times

That might be a big problem in the future.

The Guardian

"I think this will be a big problem for business.

The New York Times

The budget deficit could be a big problem.

The New York Times

If I'm leaving, it's going to be a big problem".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Think of something that would be a big problem--that is your conflict.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a big problem", clearly define what specific negative outcomes or consequences will arise from the problem. Specificity adds weight and clarity to your statement.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of the problem. While it's important to highlight the significance, overstating it can diminish credibility. Accurately represent the potential consequences without resorting to hyperbole.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a big problem" functions as a predicate in a sentence, expressing that something poses a significant issue or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

17%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a big problem" is a versatile expression used to convey that something is likely to cause significant difficulties or negative consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. It's particularly common in News & Media, but also appears frequently in Science. When using the phrase, ensure clarity and specificity about the potential outcomes to maximize its impact. While generally acceptable, more formal alternatives might be preferable in academic or professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pose a major issue

Emphasizes the act of presenting a significant problem.

create a significant challenge

Focuses on the difficulty and effort required to overcome the problem.

present considerable difficulties

Highlights the level of hardship involved.

cause serious complications

Draws attention to the potential for added layers of difficulty.

involve substantial risks

Shifts the focus to the potential negative outcomes or dangers associated with the situation.

generate considerable concern

Emphasizes the worry or anxiety caused by the problem.

be a major headache

An informal way to express that something will be very annoying and difficult to deal with.

lead to significant setbacks

Indicates that the problem will cause delays or regressions in progress.

prove highly problematic

Highlights the inherent difficulty and potential for trouble.

result in severe repercussions

Underscores the serious consequences that will follow.

FAQs

How can I use "be a big problem" in a sentence?

You can use "be a big problem" to indicate that something is likely to cause significant difficulties or negative consequences. For example, "If we don't address this issue soon, it will be a big problem for our project timeline".

What can I say instead of "be a big problem"?

You can use alternatives like "pose a major issue", "create a significant challenge", or "present considerable difficulties" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "be a big problem" in formal writing?

While "be a big problem" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives such as "pose a major issue" or "involve substantial risks" might be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What makes something qualify as "be a big problem"?

Something qualifies as "be a big problem" when it has the potential to cause considerable difficulties, negative impacts, or significant setbacks. The scale and scope of the potential consequences determine whether something is considered a "big problem".