core problem

USAGE SUMMARY

'core problem' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a central or underlying issue, especially one that is causing difficulty or difficulty to resolve. For example, "The core problem with this project is finding the right balance between quality and cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is the core problem".

The New York Times

"But the core problem remains.

The New York Times

It is a core problem.

The New York Times

That's the core problem.

Harvard Business Review

The core problem is training.

The New York Times

It is the core problem.

The New York Times

This is a core problem with democracy.

Independent

Is frostbite the core problem anyway?

The New York Times

The core problem is that minds wander.

The New Yorker

Flank limitations are the core problem.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is the hard-core problem of all collective action.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "core problem", ensure you clearly articulate what makes it central to the issue at hand. Provide context and supporting details to emphasize its significance.

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on the "core problem" to the detriment of addressing secondary issues. While the core problem is crucial, neglecting related factors can hinder effective resolution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "core problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to identify and label the most central or fundamental issue within a given context. Ludwig examples show its use across varied subjects, each pinpointing the essential difficulty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "core problem" is a frequently used noun phrase that effectively identifies the central issue in a situation. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically sound and versatile, suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and general discourse. The phrase is most commonly found in "News & Media". When using "core problem", ensure you clearly articulate what makes it central to the issue at hand to avoid overlooking secondary, yet important, factors. Alternatives like "fundamental issue" or "root cause" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental issue

Focuses on the basic and essential nature of the problem, similar to "core problem".

central issue

Highlights the issue of greatest importance or focus, closely mirroring the meaning of "core problem".

underlying issue

Emphasizes that the issue may not be immediately obvious but is fundamentally important.

root cause

Emphasizes the underlying cause that initiates a chain of events, slightly different from just identifying the core problem itself.

main difficulty

Identifies the principal obstacle or source of trouble, similar in impact to "core problem".

key challenge

Reframes the problem as a challenge that needs to be overcome, adding a sense of urgency or action.

major obstacle

Highlights the significant impediment preventing progress, adding a sense of obstruction.

primary concern

Focuses on what is most worrisome or significant, shifting the emphasis slightly towards its impact.

chief drawback

Points out the most significant disadvantage or negative aspect, differing slightly from the neutral tone of "core problem".

bottleneck

Highlights the primary point of congestion or blockage, useful in describing systemic issues.

FAQs

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

You can use "core problem" to identify the central issue in a situation. For instance, "The "core problem" with the project is the lack of funding", or "The "core problem" is not the people; it's the mission".

What phrases are similar to "core problem"?

Similar phrases include "fundamental issue", "root cause", or "central issue", each highlighting the main issue in a given situation.

Is it better to say "main problem" or "core problem"?

Both "main problem" and "core problem" are acceptable, but "core problem" often suggests a deeper, more fundamental issue than simply the "main problem".

How do I identify the "core problem" in a complex situation?

To identify the "core problem", analyze the situation to find the underlying issue that, if resolved, would alleviate many of the related problems. Look for the fundamental cause rather than surface-level symptoms.