contend with a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contend with a problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of facing or dealing with a challenge or difficulty. Example: "In her new role, she had to contend with a problem that had been affecting the team's productivity for months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Maybe Mr. Clinton, too, will find happiness here, but he has to contend with a problem that Nancy managed to escape: gossip columnists.

The New York Times

William missed all that because his parents planned better, but he had another big problem to contend with, a problem called 'being born in the nineteen eighties.' The ONS have a handy graph that illustrates this vividly.

The Guardian

This means that while Christian theology has to contend with a "problem of evil", Buddhists need to explain why life is not only worthwhile but even, at times, enjoyable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

However, in order to spark a true revolution, we must also contend with a uniquely American problem (albeit, a problem that is creeping across borders each day): the culture of convenience.

The Guardian - Opinion

PC gamers must often contend with a real-life problem in their fantasy worlds: the mouse.

The New York Times - Tech

Last month, the settlement acquired a fixed police post to contend with a growing crime problem and to curb the flow of weapons that some refugees are suspected of smuggling into the camps.

The New York Times

Switzerland's landscape is among the world's most unusual, and it has long had to contend with a variety of environmental problems that threaten its integrity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The book interweaves childhood images with medical information, as Ms. Antonetta must contend with a host of health problems, ranging from a double uterus to manic depression.

The New York Times

But in formulating a policy toward Colombia, the Bush administration will have to contend with a series of new problems that have arisen since the Clinton administration won support for its antidrug program here.

The New York Times

As he moves away from his surrogate mother (if panic-dialing her often) and contends with a patriarchal problem (the plot thickens, slightly), Tim travels a classic path of enlightenment that runs parallel with our own understanding of him.

The New York Times

But while police retirements also accelerated after Sept. 11, the police force was already contending with a retirement problem before the terrorist attack, in part because of a spike in the number of officers eligible to retire in 2000 and 2001.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contend with a problem", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is facing the challenge and what the nature of the problem is. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "contend with a problem" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "address", "tackle", or "resolve" to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contend with a problem" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of facing and dealing with a difficulty. It describes the process of struggling or grappling with a challenge, as demonstrated by the examples Ludwig provides.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contend with a problem" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of dealing with a challenge or difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While it's suitable for both formal and informal settings, it's essential to use it thoughtfully and avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms like ""address a problem"" or ""tackle a problem"" to maintain clarity and engagement. Understanding its nuances can significantly enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deal with a problem

A more general and neutral way of saying to address or handle a problem.

handle a problem

A practical and straightforward way of saying to take care of a problem.

address a problem

Focuses on taking direct action to resolve the problem.

tackle a problem

Suggests a more proactive and energetic approach to solving the problem.

grapple with a problem

Implies a more intense struggle or effort in dealing with the problem.

resolve a problem

Highlights the aim of finding a solution or ending the problem.

face a problem

Emphasizes the act of confronting the problem directly, often implying courage or determination.

confront a problem

Similar to "face a problem" but may imply a more assertive or challenging approach.

overcome a problem

Suggests successfully dealing with a problem despite difficulties.

manage a problem

Focuses on controlling or handling a problem, often over a period of time.

FAQs

What does "contend with a problem" mean?

The phrase "contend with a problem" means to struggle or deal with a difficulty or challenge. It implies facing something that requires effort and persistence to overcome.

How can I use "contend with a problem" in a sentence?

You can use "contend with a problem" in a sentence like this: "The company had to contend with a problem of declining sales".

What can I say instead of "contend with a problem"?

You can use alternatives like "deal with a problem", "address a problem", or "tackle a problem" depending on the context.

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

"Contend with a problem" suggests an ongoing struggle or effort to manage a problem, while "solve a problem" implies finding a solution and resolving it completely.