causing problems

USAGE SUMMARY

"causing problems" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used as a clause in a sentence to describe an action or situation that is causing difficulties or issues. Example: The heavy rainfall is causing problems for the farmers, as it is damaging their crops and preventing them from being able to harvest on time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The afterbirth was causing problems.

The New Yorker

I hope that's not causing problems".

The New York Times

Its destruction is already causing problems.

The Economist

"One of the stitches kept causing problems.

The New York Times

Yet the adviser's role is causing problems.

The Guardian

"It is imposing and it's causing problems.

The Guardian - Opinion

But right now they are causing problems.

The Guardian - Sport

"Congressman, you are causing problems," she said.

The Washington Post

A neighbour's drain is causing problems.

The Times

Then Mr. Bourne's solutions start causing problems.

The New York Times - Arts

Benefits sanctions were also thought to be causing problems.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "causing problems", ensure the context clearly identifies the source and nature of the problems to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "causing problems" as a vague statement. Instead, specify the nature of the problems and their impact for clarity and stronger communication. For example, instead of saying "the new policy is causing problems", try "the new policy is causing delays in project timelines and increased employee frustration".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "causing problems" functions as a gerund phrase, typically acting as a noun. It describes an action that results in difficulties or issues. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "causing problems" is a common and versatile way to describe situations or actions leading to difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in register, its impact can be enhanced by specifying the nature and source of the problems. Alternatives like "creating difficulties" or "generating issues" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Remember to provide specific details to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

creating difficulties

Replaces "problems" with "difficulties", maintaining a similar level of formality.

generating issues

Substitutes "problems" with "issues", implying slightly more specific or complex difficulties.

leading to complications

Shifts the focus to the consequence of the action, highlighting the resulting complexity.

giving rise to troubles

Uses more formal language, replacing "problems" with "troubles" and introducing "giving rise to".

provoking challenges

Emphasizes the active nature of the cause, suggesting that it is actively creating difficult situations.

resulting in setbacks

Focuses on the negative outcome as a hindrance to progress.

stirring up conflict

Implies the creation of disagreement or opposition.

fostering discord

Suggests the promotion of disharmony or lack of agreement.

brewing trouble

This alternative uses a more informal and idiomatic expression.

precipitating crises

Highlights the potential for a serious and urgent situation to arise.

FAQs

How can I use "causing problems" in a sentence?

You can use "causing problems" to describe something that is creating difficulties or issues. For example, "The lack of funding is causing problems for the research team" or "The outdated software is causing problems with data analysis".

What are some alternatives to "causing problems"?

Alternatives include "creating difficulties", "generating issues", or "leading to complications", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "causing problems" and "solving problems"?

"Causing problems" implies creating difficulties, while "solving problems" means finding solutions to existing difficulties. They are opposite in meaning.

Is it better to be proactive in preventing problems or reactive in "causing problems"?

It is generally better to be proactive in preventing problems rather than reactive in "causing problems". Proactive measures aim to avoid issues before they arise, while reactive measures address problems after they have already occurred.