be a serious problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a serious problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential issues or challenges that may arise in a situation. Example: "If we don't address the budget cuts, it could be a serious problem for our project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pulmonary embolism can be a serious problem.

The New York Times

This may be a serious problem.

The New York Times

They're getting to be a serious problem".

The New Yorker

Fish can be a serious problem.

The New York Times - Food

So it could be a serious problem".

The New York Times

Again, this can be a serious problem.

The Guardian

That would be a serious problem, to put it mildly.

The Economist

Pollution in various forms continued to be a serious problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It can be a serious problem, even life threatening.

The New York Times

It would prove to be a serious problem.

The Guardian

"But it will be a serious problem for Bo Xilai.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a serious problem", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being referred to and why it is considered serious. Providing specific details and potential consequences strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "be a serious problem" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations with significant potential negative impacts to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a serious problem" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying the subject as a significant issue. Ludwig AI shows its prevalence across various contexts to express concerns about potential or existing difficulties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a serious problem" is a versatile expression used to highlight significant issues across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key; specifying the reasons and potential consequences will make your statement more impactful. While alternatives like "pose a significant challenge" or "constitute a major issue" exist, "be a serious problem" remains a direct and widely understood way to convey concern about potential or existing difficulties. Ludwig's examples demonstrate the breadth of its applicability, from health concerns to environmental issues, underlining its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitute a major issue

This alternative uses stronger wording to emphasize the significance of the problem.

become a critical concern

This alternative stresses the urgency and importance of addressing the problem.

pose a significant challenge

This alternative frames the problem as a challenge that needs to be overcome.

prove to be a grave matter

This alternative denotes the seriousness and importance of the issue at hand.

present a considerable difficulty

This alternative highlights the level of difficulty associated with the problem.

result in adverse consequences

This alternative highlights the negative outcomes that can stem from the problem.

create a substantial risk

This alternative focuses on the potential danger or hazard the problem introduces.

generate considerable disruption

This alternative focuses on the disturbance and interruption the problem may cause.

lead to severe complications

This alternative emphasizes the negative consequences that may arise from the problem.

represent a formidable obstacle

This alternative portrays the problem as a significant barrier to progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "be a serious problem" to highlight a potentially negative situation. For example, "Lack of funding could "be a serious problem" for the project's success."

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

Alternatives include "pose a significant challenge", "present a considerable difficulty", or "constitute a major issue", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify why something "be a serious problem"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the reasons behind the seriousness enhances clarity and persuasiveness. Providing context helps the audience understand the potential impact.

What's the difference between "be a serious problem" and "be a major problem"?

While similar, "be a serious problem" suggests a situation that requires attention, while "be a major problem" implies a situation that is already causing significant disruption or damage. "Major" denotes a higher degree of impact.