emphasize the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emphasize the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing an issue that needs to be highlighted or brought to attention in a conversation or text. Example: "In our meeting, we need to emphasize the problem of declining sales to ensure everyone understands its urgency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Yet they failed to emphasize the problem as a state crime as the American bishops did after being forced to dismiss more than 700 priests.

The New York Times

It is unmistakably among the FBI's goals to emphasize the problem of devices being fully encrypted and inaccessible to authorities, a trend known as "going dark".

TechCrunch

We're really excited to announce this tomorrow, set the record straight, emphasize it's an option for them, emphasize the problem we're trying to solve, and see what they say".

TechCrunch

It may be more reasonable to concentrate attention on the methods (and software) to solve this well known problem rather than emphasize the problem importance itself.

Biology Direct

To further emphasize the problem of variability, Pronk et al. (2009) reported EC exposures ranging from 27 to 658 µg/m in high exposed jobs, less than 50 µg/m in intermediate exposed jobs, and less than 25 µg/m in the lowest exposure jobs.

Critical Reviews in Toxicology

Emphasize the problem solving aspects of chess.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

As if to emphasize the problems, the Institute for Supply Management reported that companies in Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and the United States said business was getting much worse, especially in terms of jobs.

The New York Times

General Cucolo said the policy had been intended to emphasize the problems created when pregnant soldiers go home and leave behind a weaker unit.

The New York Times

The drawing of an infant playing with a bowl is meant to emphasize the problems of baby fat and surface bones "that dominate the shape and contours of body and limbs".

The New York Times - Books

They also emphasize the problems they saw with PVs rather than discussing in terms of possibilities.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

We start by presenting four cases that emphasize the problems of current metrics.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting solutions, first "emphasize the problem" to ensure your audience understands the need for change. Highlight the impact and scope of the issue before offering potential remedies.

Common error

Avoid using "emphasize the problem" when the problem is already well-understood by your audience. Over-emphasizing familiar issues can undermine your credibility and bore your readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emphasize the problem" functions as a verb phrase used to highlight the significance of an issue or difficulty. It directs attention to the problem, often as a precursor to discussing solutions or consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

50%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "emphasize the problem" is a grammatically sound phrase used to highlight the significance of an issue. Ludwig AI confirms this, showing its usage across diverse contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Wiki. While alternatives like "highlight the issue" or "stress the concern" exist, "emphasize the problem" is most effective when setting the stage for problem-solving or clarifying the scope of an issue before providing solutions. Understanding its appropriate use helps avoid redundancy and ensures clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Highlight the issue

This alternative focuses more on bringing the issue to light, whereas the original emphasizes its problematic nature.

Stress the concern

This alternative suggests a sense of urgency or worry about the problem, adding an emotional layer.

Underscore the difficulty

This focuses on the challenge the problem presents, rather than simply calling attention to it.

Accentuate the predicament

This option adds a sense of being trapped or in a difficult situation.

Focus on the challenge

This shifts the perspective to overcoming the obstacle rather than dwelling on the problem itself.

Call attention to the matter

This alternative is more neutral and simply aims to bring the problem to notice without necessarily stressing its severity.

Draw attention to the complexity

This highlights the complicated nature of the problem.

Point out the downside

This option is more direct and focuses on the negative aspects of the problem.

Illustrate the severity

This focuses on showing how serious the problem is.

Address the core issue

This alternative focuses on directly dealing with the central problem.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "emphasize the problem" in a sentence?

To effectively use "emphasize the problem", place it strategically to highlight the issue's importance. For instance, "Before proposing solutions, it's crucial to emphasize the problem's impact on the team's productivity."

What are some alternatives to "emphasize the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "highlight the issue", "stress the concern", or "underscore the difficulty" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "emphasize the problem" and "state the problem"?

"State the problem" is a neutral declaration of an issue, whereas "emphasize the problem" highlights its importance and severity, drawing more attention to it.

Is it redundant to say "emphasize the problem" if the problem is already obvious?

Yes, it can be redundant. It's better to move directly to discussing solutions or impacts if the problem's existence is already well-established. You can instead "focus on the challenge" of the problem.