compound the problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compound the problems" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations where existing issues are made worse or more complex by additional factors. Example: "The lack of communication between departments can compound the problems we face in project management."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

The resistance is met with heavier applications that simply compound the problems.

The New York Times

The appointment of Dr. David Baltimore as president in 1989 seemed only to compound the problems.

The New York Times

New threats need new policies and an obstinate adherence to old ones will compound the problems.

The Guardian

To compound the problems, one month after school opened last fall, teachers went on strike.

The New York Times

Critics say, however, that Mr. Bar's solutions only compound the problems, focusing on the symptoms, not the actual causes.

The New York Times

"I think we compound the problems if we don't talk about them," Dutton told 2GB on Thursday.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

(Sandstorms from the nearby Gobi desert compound the problem).

The New Yorker

But widely varying state laws compound the problem.

The New York Times

Keeping WorldCom on life support now would compound the problem.

The New York Times

To compound the problem, Christians find it easier to emigrate.

The Economist

Climate change will only compound the problem, Dr. Baptiste said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "compound the problems", ensure the context clearly establishes the pre-existing issues that are being made worse. This helps to avoid ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "compound the problems" in situations where a simpler phrase like "worsen the problem" would suffice. This phrase is most effective when describing a complex interplay of factors leading to a more significant issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compound the problems" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe an action that intensifies or worsens existing issues. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, emphasizing the negative impact of certain actions or situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "compound the problems" is a versatile and commonly used expression that effectively conveys the idea of making existing issues worse or more complex. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the context clearly identifies the issues being intensified, and it's best reserved for scenarios where the interplay of factors creates a significant escalation of the problem. Alternatives like "exacerbate the issues" or "worsen the situation" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exacerbate the issues

This alternative emphasizes the worsening of existing issues.

aggravate the difficulties

This alternative focuses on intensifying the existing difficulties.

worsen the situation

This alternative provides a more general way to describe making a situation worse.

intensify the challenges

This alternative highlights the increase in the intensity of the existing challenges.

magnify the troubles

This alternative suggests an increase in the scale or importance of the troubles.

add to the woes

This alternative implies increasing the existing feelings of sadness or distress.

heighten the crisis

This alternative suggests an increase in the severity of an existing crisis.

deepen the predicament

This alternative indicates making a difficult situation even more serious.

inflate the complications

This alternative implies increasing the complexity of existing complications.

amplify the concerns

This alternative highlights the increase in the volume or importance of existing concerns.

FAQs

How can I use "compound the problems" in a sentence?

You can use "compound the problems" to describe situations where existing issues are made worse by additional factors. For example, "The lack of communication between departments can compound the problems we face in project management."

What are some alternatives to "compound the problems"?

Alternatives include "exacerbate the issues", "aggravate the difficulties", or "worsen the situation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "compound the problems" or "worsen the problems"?

"Compound the problems" is more suitable when additional elements are intensifying the original issues. "Worsen the problems" is a more general term that simply indicates a decline in the state of affairs. The choice depends on the specific nuances you want to convey.

What does it mean to "compound the problems"?

To "compound the problems" means to make existing problems worse or more complex, often by adding new issues or factors to an already difficult situation.