define the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to explain the issue or difficulty you are trying to solve. For example, "I'm trying to understand why I'm having trouble with my computer so I need to define the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

First, let's define the problem.

The New York Times

Q. Define the problem, please.

The New York Times - Science

First, define the problem as Washington, not Bush.

The New York Times

When violence occurs, it can be comforting to define the problem as narrowly as possible.

The Guardian - Opinion

Those lawyers are sure to resist the company's efforts to define the problem narrowly.

The New York Times

The way we define the problem affects the lives of millions.

The New York Times

Define the problem to determine whether behavioral issues are at play.

Harvard Business Review

Within policy narratives about policy issues, plots also define the problem.

Nature

In this paper, we formally define the problem and its correctness.

Stanford University

But in order to make this change, we must first be sure of how to define the problem.

The Guardian

Officials at the environmental agency say they have worked with local officials to define the problem and forge a solution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before brainstorming solutions, ensure everyone agrees on what the "problem" truly is. A well-"defined the problem" statement saves time and resources.

Common error

Avoid proposing solutions before you've thoroughly "defined the problem". Addressing the wrong issue can lead to ineffective or even detrimental outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define the problem" functions as an imperative, directing the audience to undertake the crucial initial step in problem-solving. Ludwig examples showcase its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "define the problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as an imperative to clearly articulate the issue before attempting to solve it. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its prevalence spans across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia, underscoring its universal applicability. When using this phrase, ensure a shared understanding of the issue to avoid misdirected efforts. Alternatives like "identify the problem" or "clarify the problem" can be used to express similar ideas, but the core message remains: understanding the problem is paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

identify the problem

Focuses on the act of recognizing the issue rather than just defining it.

determine the issue

Emphasizes the process of finding out or establishing what the problem is.

clarify the problem

Highlights the importance of making the problem understandable and less ambiguous.

understand the challenge

Shifts the focus to comprehending the nature and scope of a challenge.

diagnose the situation

Implies a more in-depth analysis, similar to medical diagnosis.

assess the difficulty

Concentrates on evaluating the degree of hardship or complexity.

pinpoint the root cause

Stresses the need to find the fundamental reason behind the problem.

articulate the matter

Emphasizes the expression of the problem in a clear and effective manner.

frame the question

Highlights how the way a problem is presented affects its solution.

recognize the predicament

Focuses on acknowledging the difficult, unpleasant, or dangerous situation.

FAQs

How can I use "define the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "define the problem" to introduce a process of identifying the core issue at hand. For example, "Before proposing solutions, we must first "define the problem" accurately."

What are some alternatives to "define the problem"?

Alternatives include "identify the problem", "determine the issue", or "clarify the problem". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Why is it important to "define the problem" before seeking solutions?

Clearly "define the problem" ensures that efforts are focused on addressing the actual root cause, preventing wasted resources on ineffective solutions.

What's the difference between "define the problem" and "solve the problem"?

"Define the problem" is the initial step of understanding and articulating the issue. "Solve the problem" is the subsequent step of finding and implementing a resolution. You must "define the problem" before you can effectively "solve the problem".