combat the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'combat the problem' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe taking action to solve a difficult issue. For example, "The mayor announced a plan to combat the problem of homelessness in the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Families are joining forces to combat the problem.

The New York Times

Several states have passed legislation to combat the problem.

The New York Times

A number of companies are trying to combat the problem.

MIT Technology Review

Scientists at Leuven have been working to combat the problem.

MIT Technology Review

He twice spent multiple weeks in N.H.L.-regulated rehabilitation to combat the problem.

The New York Times - Sports

The international community and the Afghan government have differed on how to combat the problem.

The New York Times

The club then took measures to combat the problem and radically changed its ticketing policy.

Independent

In order to combat the problem, mass cataract camps are organised.

The Guardian

Instead of introducing laws to combat the problem, however, Turkey moved towards normalising sexual assault.

The Guardian - Opinion

To combat the problem, he was calling the beverage blanc de kiwi.

The New Yorker

A contract has been signed with a Belgian pharmaceutical concern to combat the problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about solutions to complex issues, use "combat the problem" to signal a proactive and forceful approach to addressing it. For example, "The new policy aims to "combat the problem" of climate change through reduced emissions."

Common error

Avoid using "combat the problem" when the actions taken only offer a partial or temporary solution. Instead, use phrases like "mitigate" or "alleviate" to reflect the limited scope of the intervention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "combat the problem" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action taken to address a specific issue. It highlights a proactive approach to dealing with challenges, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "combat the problem" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to describe actively addressing an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. It is frequently found in news and media, scientific, and formal business settings. Alternatives include "tackle the problem" and "address the problem". While versatile, it's best used when actions offer substantial solutions. Use it to show a proactive and forceful approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tackle the problem

Focuses on directly addressing and dealing with the problem.

address the problem

Emphasizes giving attention to and dealing with the problem.

resolve the problem

Highlights finding a solution to the problem.

fight the problem

Implies a struggle or active opposition to the problem.

counteract the problem

Suggests neutralizing or offsetting the negative effects of the problem.

mitigate the problem

Focuses on reducing the severity or impact of the problem.

alleviate the problem

Highlights providing relief from the problem.

curb the problem

Emphasizes restraining or controlling the problem.

remedy the problem

Suggests correcting or improving the situation causing the problem.

overcome the problem

Focuses on successfully dealing with and moving past the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "combat the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "combat the problem" to describe actions taken to actively fight or address a specific issue. For example, "The government is implementing new measures to combat the problem of unemployment".

What are some alternatives to "combat the problem"?

Alternatives include "tackle the problem", "address the problem", or "resolve the problem". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "combat the problem" formal or informal?

"Combat the problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in news reports, academic papers, and general discussions.

What is the difference between "combat the problem" and "fight the problem"?

While both phrases are similar, "combat the problem" often implies a more strategic and organized effort, whereas "fight the problem" might suggest a more immediate or reactive response.