deal with a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"deal with a problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to describe the action of addressing an issue. For example, "The team was able to efficiently deal with the problem and find a creative solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's an easier way to deal with a problem".

The New Yorker

You don't deal with a problem by ignoring it".

Independent

"They have never had to deal with a problem of this enormity before," he said.

The New York Times

"We would always want a host nation to deal with a problem itself," he said.

The New York Times

"So many times violence is used to try to deal with a problem".

The New York Times

"And it gives the child a way to deal with a problem in a social context.

The New York Times - Health

The strategy is an attempt to deal with a problem that robs billions from music and movie businesses.

The New York Times

"He believes... it is important that we reach an agreement to deal with a problem which is global.

The Guardian

BM: I hope so! LH: Do you think the western democratic process can deal with a problem like climate change?

The Guardian

This is about the security of the region but also Europe's ability to deal with a problem on its borders," he added.

The New York Times

He says: "With old buildings, it's about working with care to deal with a problem in a way that respects the building's history.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deal with a problem", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. For instance, "tackle a problem" implies a more proactive approach than simply "handling" it.

Common error

Avoid framing sentences in a way that obscures who is taking action to "deal with a problem". Instead of "The problem was dealt with", specify who dealt with the problem for clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deal with a problem" functions as a verb phrase, specifically an action phrase. It describes the action of addressing or handling an issue or difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate and commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deal with a problem" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that describes the action of addressing an issue. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in a wide range of contexts, from news reports to scientific articles. While alternatives such as "resolve a problem" or "tackle a problem" may offer slightly different nuances, "deal with a problem" remains a reliable and clear way to express the process of handling challenges. Remember to be mindful of voice, keeping it active and direct to ensure clear communication. This phrase's high frequency across numerous authoritative sources confirms its widespread acceptance and usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

address an issue

Focuses on directly confronting and resolving a specific issue.

resolve a problem

Emphasizes the successful finding of a solution to the problem.

tackle a problem

Highlights the proactive and energetic approach to managing the problem.

manage a problem

Focuses on the ongoing handling and control of a problem.

handle a problem

Implies a practical and efficient approach to dealing with the problem.

cope with a problem

Suggests adapting and enduring while facing a difficult problem.

contend with a problem

Implies struggling and striving to overcome a problem.

grapple with a problem

Indicates a close and often difficult engagement with the problem.

confront a problem

Emphasizes directly facing the problem, often with a sense of challenge.

mitigate a problem

Focuses on reducing the severity or impact of the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "deal with a problem" to describe the process of addressing and resolving an issue, such as: "The company needed a new strategy to "address an issue" with customer service."

What are some alternatives to "deal with a problem"?

Alternatives include "resolve a problem", "tackle a problem", "manage a problem", or "handle a problem", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Which is more appropriate, "deal with a problem" or "solve a problem"?

"Deal with a problem" implies managing or addressing the issue, while "solve a problem" suggests finding a definitive solution. The best choice depends on whether the issue is fully resolvable or requires ongoing management.

What's the difference between "cope with a problem" and "deal with a problem"?

"Cope with a problem" suggests enduring and adapting to a difficult situation, whereas "deal with a problem" implies taking action to address and potentially resolve the issue. Coping is about managing, while dealing is about actively resolving.