but one problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but one problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a single issue or obstacle in a discussion or argument. Example: "The project has many advantages, but one problem remains: the budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

But one problem with this is that there is no agreement on what "extremism" is, let alone its causes or solutions.

The Guardian - Opinion

But one problem with this assay is that occasionally eggshell dust falls on the CAM and causes background inflammation.

Angiogenesis

But one problem with human-technology interaction studies is that they are based largely on a theory of command and control[ 41].

BMC Health Services Research

But one problem remained.

The Guardian

But one problem never fades away.

The New York Times

There is but one problem: they have no maestro.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

But as one problem vanishes another appears: the return of Samy.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Hooray, but for one problem: Households really haven't shed all that much debt.

Huffington Post

In my sight there are not too much problems but one big problem is this not-fitting coach.

The Guardian - Sport

But there was one problem.

The New York Times

But there was one problem, namely Rasual Butler.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but one problem" to introduce a specific issue or limitation after discussing positive aspects or potential solutions. This helps create a balanced view and avoids overly optimistic or pessimistic portrayals.

Common error

While "but one problem" is a useful phrase, avoid using it repetitively in close proximity. Overuse can make your writing sound monotonous. Vary your sentence structure and use synonyms like "however, a challenge" or "yet, an issue" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but one problem" functions as a contrastive conjunction, introducing a specific issue or limitation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common way to present a drawback following a positive statement. Examples in Ludwig highlight this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but one problem" effectively introduces a specific limitation or challenge, creating a balanced view in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature. It’s particularly common in news, media, and science publications, indicating a neutral register. While frequently used, writers should be mindful of overuse and vary their sentence structure for better engagement. Alternatives like "however, a challenge" or "yet, an issue" can offer similar nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, a significant issue

Replaces "but" with "however" and emphasizes the importance of the problem.

yet, a key challenge

Uses "yet" to create a contrast, highlighting a significant obstacle.

one limitation, however

Directly points out a limitation with a contrasting connector.

a remaining obstacle, though

Indicates an obstacle that persists despite progress.

still, a noteworthy issue

Uses "still" to introduce a notable concern.

the primary difficulty, though

Emphasizes the difficulty while acknowledging other aspects.

a major concern, nonetheless

Highlights the concern despite other considerations.

nevertheless, a hurdle exists

Introduces an existing hurdle despite previous context.

the only snag, though

Highlights that there is only one problem to deal with, but may still be relevant.

a single snag, though

Highlights a single problem to deal with, which may still be relevant.

FAQs

How can I use "but one problem" in a sentence?

Use "but one problem" to introduce a drawback, limitation, or challenge following a statement of positive aspects or potential solutions. For example: "The new software is efficient, "but one problem" is its compatibility with older systems".

What are some alternatives to "but one problem"?

You can use alternatives such as "however, a challenge", "yet, an issue", or "nevertheless, a hurdle exists" depending on the context. These phrases help introduce a contrasting point.

Is it correct to say "but one problem is" or "but the problem is"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "But one problem is" implies that there may be other problems, while "but the problem is" suggests that there is a single, specific issue being addressed.

How does "but one problem" compare to "but a problem"?

"But one problem" suggests there's a primary or notable issue, whereas "but a problem" is more general and could indicate a less significant concern. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.