beset with problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beset with problems" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or entity that is surrounded or plagued by difficulties or challenges. Example: "The project was beset with problems from the very beginning, leading to significant delays and budget overruns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The Sharks have been beset with problems.

The Guardian - Sport

Its 16-year-old protagonist is beset with problems.

The New York Times - Books

The state of the art Swanwick site has been beset with problems for years.

The Guardian

The alliance is beset with problems: inadequate defence spending, finding a respectable exit from Afghanistan, and America's "pivot" to Asia.

The Economist

The 2012 season was beset with problems, even as fans generally applauded the quality of the racing.

The New York Times

The program has been beset with problems off the field, including allegations that a quarterback gambled on games.

The New York Times - Sports

The project to digitise job-searching activity for millions of unemployed people has been beset with problems from its start.

The Guardian - Money

From anti-feminism to racial inequality to exploitative consumerism, the issue of make-up is beset with problems.

The Guardian

BEIJING — Days before the opening ceremony, the Olympic Games seemed beset with problems, none potentially more worrisome than air quality.

The New York Times - Sports

But sources said that the 900,000sq ft distribution centre's high tech automation was beset with problems.

The Guardian - Business

And then there is Houston's haggard home arena: Hofheinz Pavilion, which has been beset with problems, like showers that did not work.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "beset with problems", ensure the subject is clearly defined. For example, instead of "The project was beset with problems", specify what kind of project: "The construction project was beset with problems".

Common error

Avoid using "beset with problems" in very casual conversation. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in everyday situations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "having trouble" or "dealing with issues".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beset with problems" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that the noun is experiencing a multitude of difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Science & Research

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "beset with problems" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to describe something or someone experiencing numerous difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and very common in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic writing. While alternatives like "plagued by issues" or "burdened with difficulties" can offer similar meanings, "beset with problems" effectively communicates the severity and pervasiveness of the challenges. While generally neutral in register, it's best to avoid overuse in informal contexts, opting for simpler alternatives to maintain a natural tone. Remember to clearly define the subject when using this phrase for optimal clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plagued by issues

Replaces "beset" with "plagued", suggesting a persistent and troublesome presence of issues.

burdened with difficulties

Emphasizes the weight and strain caused by the problems.

afflicted by challenges

Highlights the negative impact of the challenges on the subject.

troubled by difficulties

Focuses on the emotional distress caused by the difficulties.

facing numerous obstacles

Shifts the focus to the act of confronting the obstacles.

experiencing a series of setbacks

Highlights the sequential nature of the problems as setbacks.

grappling with complications

Emphasizes the struggle to overcome the complications.

mired in difficulties

Suggests a state of being stuck or trapped in the difficulties.

embroiled in issues

Implies a complex and entangled situation with the issues.

hampered by obstacles

Focuses on how obstacles impede progress or success.

FAQs

What does "beset with problems" mean?

The phrase "beset with problems" means to be consistently or severely affected or troubled by difficulties or issues. It implies that the problems are surrounding or attacking the subject in some way.

How can I use "beset with problems" in a sentence?

You can use "beset with problems" to describe situations, organizations, or even people who are facing numerous challenges. For example: "The company was "beset with problems" due to poor management."

What are some alternatives to "beset with problems"?

Alternatives to "beset with problems" include "plagued by issues", "burdened with difficulties", or "afflicted by challenges", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "beset with problems" formal or informal?

"Beset with problems" leans towards the more formal side. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "having trouble" or "dealing with issues" might be more appropriate.