explain the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"explain the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to clarify a situation or difficulty that they have. Example: Can you please explain the problem so that I can understand how best to help you?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How to explain the problem, asked Justin Webb.

The Guardian

Good points – but why only released yesterday to explain the problem?

The Guardian - Opinion

His boss had taken him aside to explain the problem: he made clients uncomfortable.

The New York Times - Health

Beforehand they explain the problem and how it affects their confidence.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Alert your waiter immediately and, this is important, explain the problem without bluster, exaggeration or threat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"What's this country coming to?" I turned to Abigail and tried to explain the problem.

The New Yorker

You need to contact the management company secretary, explain the problem and discuss next steps.

Independent

"Explain the problem to the American people, and keep explaining it and explaining it".

The Economist

In that time our generation have grown up and scientists the world over have worked tirelessly to explain the problem.

The Guardian

For a year, since skipping public events because of his voice, he had refused to explain the problem.

The New York Times

Banks, however, should make "reasonable efforts" to avoid forcing the customer to explain the problem over again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain the problem", ensure you provide enough context for the listener or reader to understand the situation fully. Avoid jargon or technical terms that they may not be familiar with.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when you "explain the problem". Clarity is key; use simple, direct language to ensure your audience understands the issue without getting lost in unnecessary details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain the problem" functions primarily as a request or instruction. It prompts someone to provide a clear account or clarification of an existing difficulty. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain the problem" is a common and grammatically sound request for clarification, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's used across various contexts, but most frequently in News & Media and Science. When using the phrase, ensure clarity and avoid jargon. Alternatives like "clarify the issue" or "describe the difficulty" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. Overall, "explain the problem" is a versatile and widely accepted way to ask someone to articulate an issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify the issue

Replaces "explain" with "clarify" and "problem" with "issue", focusing on making something easier to understand.

describe the difficulty

Uses "describe" instead of "explain" and "difficulty" instead of "problem", emphasizing a detailed account.

outline the matter

Substitutes "explain" with "outline" and "problem" with "matter", suggesting a structured presentation.

detail the concern

Replaces "explain" with "detail" and "problem" with "concern", focusing on providing specific information about an issue.

present the challenge

Uses "present" instead of "explain" and "challenge" instead of "problem", framing it as something to be overcome.

illuminate the predicament

Substitutes "explain" with "illuminate" and "problem" with "predicament", suggesting a clarification of a difficult situation.

articulate the issue

Replaces "explain" with "articulate", focusing on expressing something clearly and effectively.

spell out the snag

Uses "spell out" instead of "explain" and "snag" instead of "problem", implying a detailed and explicit explanation of a hindrance.

walk me through the trouble

Replaces "explain the problem" with a request to guide someone through a difficulty.

break down the complexity

Substitutes "explain" with "break down" and "problem" with "complexity", emphasizing simplification and analysis.

FAQs

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

You can use "explain the problem" when you want someone to clarify an issue. For example, "Could you please "explain the problem" you're facing so I can assist you better?"

What is a more formal way to say "explain the problem"?

In more formal settings, you could use phrases like "clarify the issue" or "detail the concern" to maintain a professional tone.

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

"Explain the problem" focuses on clarifying the nature of the issue, while "define the problem" emphasizes setting its boundaries and characteristics.

What are some synonyms for ""explain the problem"" that I can use in my writing?

Alternatives include "describe the difficulty", "outline the matter", or "present the challenge", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.