cause a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "cause a problem" is correct and usable in written English in the present tense.
For example: "The current economic downturn is causing a lot of people to have financial problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Smaller aneurysms rarely cause a problem.

Harvard University

That would cause a problem". Quite.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Did this cause a problem for the rebels?

The Guardian

"And they are going to cause a problem for Europe".

The New York Times

Most reputable implants, when they break, don't cause a problem.

The Guardian

It shows us that even rumours can cause a problem".

The Guardian - Business

It is that word "central" that might cause a problem.

The New York Times

The HRMA PSF "anomaly" has not been found to cause a problem in analysis.

Harvard University

Gangsterish enough to cause a stir, but not enough to cause a problem.

The New York Times

The cross-shareholdings at that level are unlikely to cause a problem," Mr Gorrie told Reuters.

The Guardian - Business

One was would the new Federal Immigration Service building cause a problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overuse by varying your phrasing. While grammatically sound, relying solely on "cause a problem" can make your writing monotonous. Consider synonyms such as 'trigger an issue' or 'present a challenge' to diversify your language.

Common error

Be mindful of the intensity and scope implied by "cause a problem". If the issue is minor or easily resolved, using a less dramatic phrase like "present a minor inconvenience" or "result in a slight delay" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause a problem" functions as a verb phrase. It typically acts as the predicate of a sentence, indicating the action of initiating or generating a difficulty. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

26%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cause a problem" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's considered grammatically correct and suitable for various writing contexts. Its purpose is to describe the act of initiating or resulting in difficulties, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for news, scientific, and general communication. While "cause a problem" is widely accepted, varying your phrasing by considering semantically similar alternatives can lead to a more sophisticated and engaging writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create an issue

This alternative focuses on the act of generating a specific point of contention or difficulty.

lead to complications

This phrase emphasizes the progression from an action or situation to a more complex set of difficulties.

give rise to difficulties

This suggests that something is initiating or producing challenges.

present a challenge

This alternative frames the problem as something that needs to be overcome, highlighting its demanding nature.

pose an obstacle

This emphasizes the hindering aspect of the problem, suggesting it blocks progress.

spark a conflict

Implies that the problem is the catalyst for disagreement or opposition.

trigger a crisis

This suggests a more severe and urgent problem is initiated.

generate a setback

This emphasizes the negative impact on progress or advancement.

inflict a disadvantage

The problem actively imposes a condition that impairs or reduces chances of success.

initiate a snag

This alternative emphasizes a minor, unexpected difficulty that can slow down progress.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to saying "cause a problem"?

You can use alternatives like "create an issue", "lead to complications", or "present a challenge" depending on the context.

How to use "cause a problem" in a sentence?

You can use "cause a problem" to describe something that creates difficulties or complications. For example, "Poor communication can cause a problem within a team" or "Lack of funding might cause a problem for the project".

Is it better to say "cause a problem" or "create a problem"?

Both "cause a problem" and "create a problem" are correct and often interchangeable. However, "cause a problem" might imply an unintended consequence, while "create a problem" might suggest a more deliberate action.

What's the difference between "cause a problem" and "solve a problem"?

"Cause a problem" refers to initiating or generating a difficulty, while "solve a problem" refers to finding a solution to an existing difficulty. They are opposite in meaning.