create a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"create a problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it when you are describing an event or situation in which someone or something causes complications for someone else. For example, "The CEO's decision to move the company to a new location created a problem for the employees who had to relocate their families."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All they did was create a problem".

The New York Times

But that would create a problem with the reflexive "themselves".

The New York Times

You can create a problem that may not be there".

The New Yorker

Can any leads from dummy create a problem?

The New York Times - Books

Because one day that is going to create a problem.

The Guardian

They didn't want to create a problem two years down the road.

The New York Times

So does the closing of the track unexpectedly create a problem?

The New York Times

You don't want to create a problem that would shut down your business".

The New York Times

"If that's the case, I don't want to create a problem that doesn't exist".

The New York Times

"Why create a problem where there isn't a problem?" he asked.

The Guardian

But if you have a certain rule, it does create a problem for the rest.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "create a problem", be specific about the nature of the problem and its potential impact to provide context for your reader.

Common error

While "create a problem" is a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Try using synonyms like "cause an issue", "generate complications", or "lead to trouble" to add variety to your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create a problem" functions as a verb phrase, where "create" is the verb and "a problem" is the direct object. It describes the action of bringing a difficulty or complication into existence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

21%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "create a problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that indicates the action of generating or bringing about a difficulty, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's versatile, appearing in neutral registers across various contexts such as news, science, and general writing. While it's acceptable in many scenarios, diversifying your vocabulary with alternatives like "cause an issue" or "generate complications" can enhance your writing. Remember to provide specific details about the problem to give your reader adequate context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause an issue

This alternative uses "issue" instead of "problem", implying a less severe difficulty.

generate complications

This phrase uses more formal language, suggesting a complex series of difficulties.

give rise to difficulties

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the origin of the difficulties.

lead to trouble

This phrase implies a potential negative outcome resulting from the action.

spark a crisis

This suggests a sudden and significant problem, often with widespread impact.

trigger a setback

This phrase implies that progress is being hindered by the problem.

brew a storm

This is an idiomatic expression, suggesting a build-up of trouble or conflict.

set the stage for difficulties

This alternative indicates that future problems are likely to occur as a result.

plant the seeds of discord

This phrase suggests an intentional action that will lead to disagreement and problems.

stir up a hornet's nest

This idiomatic expression implies that the action will create a situation that is best left undisturbed.

FAQs

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

You can use "create a problem" to describe an action or situation that causes difficulties. For example, "The new policy might "create a problem" for small businesses".

What are some alternatives to "create a problem"?

Alternatives include "cause an issue", "generate complications", or "lead to trouble". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "create a problem" or "cause a problem"?

Both "create a problem" and "cause a problem" are grammatically correct and widely used. "Create" suggests bringing a problem into existence, while "cause" implies being the reason for the problem. The difference is subtle, and they're often interchangeable.

Can something unintentionally "create a problem"?

Yes, something can unintentionally "create a problem". The phrase doesn't necessarily imply intent. For instance, "The new software update unintentionally "created a problem" for users with older computers".