disastrous problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disastrous problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem that has severe negative consequences or implications. Example: "The company faced a disastrous problem when their main product line was recalled due to safety concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Month after month, it seems, another potentially disastrous problem rises to the surface.

The New Yorker

But they are part of what Congress must to do make sure the country does not find itself facing the same disastrous problem down the road.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Here is a partial list of commercial airline flights that faced potentially disastrous problems when they flew into volcanic ash clouds.

The New York Times

After the disastrous problems early on with the federal online insurance market, HealthCare.gov, the sign-up process has gone much better than could have been expected a few months ago.

The New Yorker

The disastrous problems faced by the new president upon taking office in 2009 were a Republican legacy, just as Southern racism was once a Democratic legacy.

Huffington Post

Instead, England has disastrous witch problem.

The New Yorker

The critics are lining up to assign responsibility for the disastrous power problem last week.

The New York Times

DARGIS I envision a generation facing a future of potentially disastrous eye problems, much as their rock-music-loving parents and grandparents have suffered a loss of hearing.

The New York Times

But she offered virtually no detail — beyond the Republican mantra of tax cuts — for how she and Mr. McCain would address the financial crisis or help Americans avoid foreclosure or what programs they would cut because of the country's disastrous fiscal problems.

The New York Times

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient critical for human health, and its deficiency cause serious and sometimes even disastrous health problems [4, 5].

Nanoscale Research Letters

Investors may have recognized the limited impact of the recall, but memories of disastrous battery problems with Sony still remain strong.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "disastrous problem", ensure the context clearly establishes the severe negative consequences or outcomes of the problem. This will enhance the impact and clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "disastrous problem" to describe minor inconveniences or everyday challenges. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact and can make your writing seem hyperbolic. Save it for situations with genuinely severe consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disastrous problem" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "disastrous" modifies the noun "problem". It serves to describe a problem of significant severity and negative impact. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disastrous problem" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a significantly severe issue with negative consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys the gravity of a situation across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. While applicable in formal and informal settings, it's crucial to reserve its use for situations where the severity truly warrants such strong language. Alternatives like "catastrophic issue" or "devastating crisis" can offer similar emphasis, depending on the nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

catastrophic issue

This alternative emphasizes the scale and severity of the problem, indicating a major and devastating event.

devastating crisis

This phrase highlights the destructive and overwhelming nature of the problem, suggesting widespread damage and suffering.

unmitigated disaster

This alternative stresses the complete and utter failure or catastrophe without any positive aspects.

acute crisis

This highlights the sudden and severe nature of the problem, needing immediate attention.

severe setback

This alternative emphasizes the hindrance and negative impact of the problem on progress or success.

critical failure

This phrase focuses on the inability to function or succeed, emphasizing the importance and negative consequences of the problem.

grave concern

This alternative highlights the seriousness and potential danger associated with the problem, emphasizing the need for attention and action.

major calamity

This phrase suggests a significant and unfortunate event, emphasizing the disastrous nature and widespread impact of the problem.

serious adversity

This alternative emphasizes the challenging and difficult nature of the problem, highlighting the need for resilience and perseverance.

dire predicament

This phrase suggests a difficult, dangerous, or otherwise unfortunate situation, emphasizing the urgency and need for resolution.

FAQs

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

You can use "disastrous problem" to describe situations with severe negative consequences. For example, "The company faced a "disastrous problem" when their main product line was recalled." or "The new policy created a "disastrous problem" for small businesses."

What are some alternatives to "disastrous problem"?

Alternatives include "catastrophic issue", "devastating crisis", or "severe setback". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "disastrous problem" a formal or informal phrase?

"Disastrous problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it's best reserved for situations where the severity warrants such strong language. In more casual settings, consider less intense alternatives.

What makes a problem qualify as a "disastrous problem"?

A problem qualifies as a "disastrous problem" when it has significant, far-reaching negative effects. These effects can be financial, social, environmental, or any combination thereof, causing considerable harm and disruption.