broach the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broach the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing or bringing up a difficult or sensitive issue for discussion. Example: "During the meeting, I felt it was necessary to broach the problem of budget cuts and their impact on our projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The oblique approach to the undiscussable topic eventually led the villagers to broach the problem of girls being sent away by their poverty-stricken parents.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

David Leigh broached the problem again with Julian.

The Guardian

Immediately after Ceausescu's death, he set up contacts with the new regime, and was received by Professor Dumitru Mazilu, vice-president of the National Salvation Front, to whom he broached the problem of the restitution of church rights.

The Guardian

While detailing his search for effective drugs not available on the NHS and the deployment of his skills to ensure a switch to the Royal Marsden hospital in London for treatment, he also dared broach the problems of acute constipation suffered by cancer patients, and his lapse into agony after ordering and downing cocktails.

The Guardian

The arguments over how to broach this problem are fairly well-rehearsed.

The Guardian

We didn't argue with them, and it's really never been a problem because I never broach the subjects of sexuality and religion".

Vice

This circle is difficult to square, but private companies, in particular, have no incentive to broach this problem.

The Guardian

Not everyone suffering from mental health problems has a positive response when they broach the subject.

The Guardian

Should I broach the subject with her?

The New York Times

How do you broach the topic?

Harvard Business Review

Unwrapping naked words to broach the shift.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broach the problem", consider your audience and the sensitivity of the issue. A more direct approach like "address the problem" may be preferable in some professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "broach the problem" in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "bring up the issue" or "talk about the problem" are more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broach the problem" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of introducing a difficult or sensitive subject. As Ludwig AI suggests, it signifies carefully bringing up a topic.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broach the problem" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of introducing a sensitive issue, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not overly common, it finds its place in news, business, and scientific contexts. When choosing to use "broach the problem", be mindful of your audience and setting. In more informal contexts it is recommended to prefer other alternatives like "raise the issue" or "mention the problem".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

address the problem

This alternative is more direct and commonly used in formal contexts.

raise the problem

This alternative focuses on bringing the issue to attention.

tackle the problem

This implies a more active approach to resolving the issue.

discuss the problem

This suggests a more conversational approach to understanding the issue.

explore the problem

This indicates a deeper investigation into the complexities of the issue.

begin the problem

This alternative is less common and implies starting to deal with the problem

mention the problem

This suggests a brief reference to the problem without detailed discussion.

approach the problem

This suggests a specific method or strategy for dealing with the problem.

cite the problem

This alternative emphasizes providing evidence or examples of the problem.

cover the problem

This alternative emphasizes dealing with the problem exhaustively

FAQs

What does "broach the problem" mean?

"Broach the problem" means to introduce or bring up a sensitive or difficult issue for discussion. It implies carefully approaching a topic that might be uncomfortable or challenging.

How can I "broach the problem" effectively?

To "broach the problem" effectively, choose a suitable time and place, be mindful of your tone, and be prepared to listen to different perspectives. Starting with a neutral statement can help ease into the discussion.

What can I say instead of "broach the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "address the issue", "raise the concern", or "tackle the problem" depending on the context.

Is "broach the problem" formal or informal?

"Broach the problem" leans towards the formal side. In informal settings, consider using phrases like "bring up the problem" or "talk about the issue".