complex problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex problem" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a problem which has multiple components and is difficult to solve. For example, "Climate change is a complex problem requiring a global effort to address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But it's a complex problem.

The New Yorker

This is a huge, complex problem.

The New York Times

Infant mortality is a complex problem.

The New York Times

But she oversimplifies a complex problem.

The New York Times

Apportionment is often a complex problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I don't think it's a complex problem.

The New York Times

But Iraq is a far more complex problem.

The New York Times

But it addressed only one aspect of this complex problem.

The New York Times

"Erosion is a huge, complex problem," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

It is not the solution to this complex problem.

The New York Times

This is a complex problem but there are solutions.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "complex problem", be specific about the aspects that make it complex. Avoid vague statements and provide concrete examples or details to illustrate the multifaceted nature of the problem.

Common error

Avoid merely stating that a problem is "complex" without explaining why it is complex. Provide details about the contributing factors, interconnected issues, or challenging elements that make it difficult to solve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "problem". According to Ludwig AI, this expression is commonly used in English. The phrase describes a situation or issue that is intricate and challenging to resolve, such as in the example, "Solving obesity is a complex problem."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complex problem" is a widely used phrase in English to describe intricate and challenging situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's considered grammatically correct and appears frequently in diverse contexts, including news, scientific research, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "intricate issue" or "challenging situation" exist, "complex problem" effectively conveys the multifaceted nature of the issue at hand. When using the phrase, be specific about the aspects contributing to its complexity to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate issue

Focuses on the detailed and complicated nature of the issue.

complicated matter

Emphasizes the difficulty in understanding or dealing with the matter.

challenging situation

Highlights the difficulty and the need for effort to overcome the situation.

difficult predicament

Stresses the unfavorable and troublesome nature of the situation.

thorny question

Emphasizes the contentious and problematic aspect of the question.

convoluted situation

Highlights the confusing and intricate nature of the situation.

multifaceted dilemma

Emphasizes the multiple aspects and conflicting elements of the dilemma.

vexing issue

Highlights the irritating and frustrating nature of the issue.

gnarly problem

Emphasizes the unpleasant and difficult-to-resolve nature of the problem.

unsettled question

Highlights the lack of resolution and potential for debate surrounding the question.

FAQs

How can I use "complex problem" in a sentence?

You can use "complex problem" to describe situations that require detailed analysis and multifaceted solutions. For example, "Solving climate change is a "complex problem" requiring global cooperation".

What's the difference between "complex problem" and "simple problem"?

A "complex problem" involves numerous interconnected factors and is difficult to resolve, while a "simple problem" has fewer variables and a straightforward solution.

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "complex problem"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "intricate issue", "complicated matter", or "challenging situation" depending on the specific context.

Why is it important to acknowledge when a situation is a "complex problem"?

Recognizing the complexity helps manage expectations and allocate appropriate resources. It also encourages collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches to finding solutions.