face the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "face the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone who is confronting and dealing with a challenge. For example, you could say, "John didn't shy away from the issue - he decided to face the problem head on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Businesses also face the problem of manipulated currencies overseas.

The New York Times

Clothing retailers still face the problem of single-item purchases.

The New Yorker

As Brown says, we "have to face the problem".

The Guardian

Service managers face the problem of simultaneously developing and implementing both capacity and demand management strategies.

Cornell University

"But if they stay put they will face the problem of remortgaging.

Independent

Mr. Obama is hardly the first president to face the problem.

The New York Times

Others besides those organizations and groups face the problem of free riding.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many once-top athletes face the problem of how to compete with intensity as they age.

The New York Times

I hope this will make people face the problem here too.

The New York Times

But farmers face the problem whether or not they plant genetically modified crops.

The New Yorker

In a separate opinion, Gorsuch wrote, "All of us face the problem of complicity.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "face the problem" when you want to emphasize the act of acknowledging and addressing a challenge directly. It suggests a willingness to confront difficulties rather than avoid them.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions that obscure who is facing the problem. Instead of saying "The problem must be faced", specify who needs to "face the problem" for clearer and more direct communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "face the problem" functions as a verb phrase, where "face" is the verb indicating the action of confronting something, and "the problem" is the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "face the problem" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that encourages direct confrontation with challenges. As Ludwig AI highlights, its versatility makes it suitable for numerous contexts. Occurring frequently in "News & Media", "Science", and "Academia", the phrase maintains a neutral register. Alternative phrases such as "confront the problem" and "address the problem" offer similar meanings with subtle differences in emphasis. When using "face the problem", ensure clarity by specifying who is undertaking this action, and avoid passive constructions. It's a direct and effective way to call for or describe proactive problem-solving.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

confront the problem

This alternative emphasizes a direct and often challenging encounter with the problem.

confront the issue

This alternative uses "issue" as a synonym for problem, emphasizing the need for direct engagement.

address the problem

This suggests taking action to deal with or solve the problem.

tackle the problem

This implies dealing with the problem in a determined and efficient way.

deal with the problem

This is a general term for handling or managing the problem.

take on the challenge

This phrases focuses on the challenging nature of the problem, suggesting a proactive approach.

resolve the problem

This focuses on finding a solution to the problem.

handle the problem

This suggests managing the problem effectively.

meet the difficulty

This alternative directly relates to "difficulty" instead of "problem", focusing on how one will react.

grapple with the problem

This indicates struggling to overcome the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "face the problem" to describe someone acknowledging and addressing a challenge. For example: "The company needs to "address the problem" of declining sales figures."

What is a good alternative to "face the problem"?

Alternatives include "confront the problem", "address the problem", or "tackle the problem". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "face the problem" or "ignore the problem"?

In most situations, it's better to "face the problem" because ignoring it can lead to further complications. Addressing the problem directly allows for potential solutions and resolutions.

What does it mean to "face the problem head-on"?

To "face the problem head-on" means to confront it directly and without hesitation. It suggests a proactive and decisive approach to resolving a difficult situation.