foreseeable problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foreseeable problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing issues or challenges that can be anticipated or predicted based on current knowledge or circumstances. Example: "The team identified a foreseeable problem with the project timeline that needed to be addressed before moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

There is a foreseeable problem with the program's long-term financing, but it can be fixed with changes that do no harm to its elderly beneficiaries.

The New York Times

This failure to meet targets, to keep up with the growing demand for cancer care, was a foreseeable problem – and it's getting worse.

The Guardian

The only foreseeable problem would be if you misplace your mobile phone too.

Forbes

"If there was another, subsequent windstorm and more trees fell as the result of it, the landlords may be liable for some damages for not correcting a foreseeable problem.

Los Angeles Times

Early intervention, such as vaccination against S. pneumoniae and influenza for the adult population, is warranted to address this foreseeable problem in Vietnam and other countries in SEA.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Despite the many studies cataloguing generic and acute seroprevalence, no systematic correlation is made between prevalence rates and their attributable risk to congenital infection., One foreseeable problem with instigating routine IgG testing in pregnancy is that of repeat screening.

European Journal of Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It also makes a link to current EU policies; summarises foreseeable problems derived from climate change effects, and provides some recommendations in the different areas covered.

Journal of Hydrology

The current crisis in Ukraine aside, the biggest of the major foreseeable problems include economic stagnation, unemployment, migration, energy, relations with Russia, internal political legitimacy and the British question.

The Guardian - Opinion

ERG and the term "activist-scholar" are closely associated: Faculty and students alike are motivated by current and foreseeable problems and are encouraged to take what they learn into the full range of educational, political, and policy processes.

University of California, Berkeley

On the "no" side, avoidable failures that result from poor work habits, foreseeable problems or poor teamwork are not in themselves praiseworthy, although they may provide opportunities for feedback or coaching.

Stanford University

We knew he was not ready for formal schooling but our pleas to delay his entry into reception were greeted by staff with airy denials of any foreseeable problems.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "foreseeable problem", clearly outline the potential consequences if the problem is not addressed proactively. This provides context and emphasizes the importance of taking preventative measures.

Common error

Avoid simply identifying a "foreseeable problem" without suggesting potential solutions or preventative actions. A thorough analysis should include steps to mitigate the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foreseeable problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "foreseeable" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "problem". It describes a situation or issue that can be anticipated or predicted. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "foreseeable problem" describes an issue or challenge that can be anticipated based on current knowledge or circumstances. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and usable in various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While not very common, its usage is straightforward: to highlight potential issues and prompt proactive planning. When using this phrase, it's best to outline the potential consequences and suggest mitigation strategies. Alternatives include "predictable issue" or "anticipated difficulty", depending on the context and desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

predictable issue

Focuses on the ease of prediction rather than the potential severity.

anticipated difficulty

Highlights the expectation of a challenge or obstacle.

expected complication

Emphasizes the potential for added complexity.

projected setback

Specifically refers to anticipated delays or hindrances.

foreseen challenge

Replaces "problem" with a term that suggests a test of one's abilities.

preventable issue

Highlights the possibility of averting the problem.

avoidable difficulty

Focuses on the capacity to circumvent the anticipated problem.

anticipated obstacle

Stresses the impedance or blockage that is expected.

predictable obstacle

Replaces the noun problem with a noun that suggests a barrier.

expected issue

A more neutral term indicating something is likely to occur.

FAQs

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

You can use "foreseeable problem" to describe an issue that can be anticipated before it arises. For example: "The lack of funding presents a "foreseeable problem" for the project's completion."

What are some alternatives to "foreseeable problem"?

Alternatives include "predictable issue", "anticipated difficulty", or "expected complication", depending on the context.

Is "foreseeable problem" formal or informal?

"Foreseeable problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, you might consider alternatives like "anticipated challenge" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between a "foreseeable problem" and an "unforeseen problem"?

A "foreseeable problem" is one that can be reasonably anticipated or predicted, while an "unforeseen problem" is unexpected and could not have been easily predicted. Addressing a "foreseeable problem" involves proactive planning, whereas dealing with an unforeseen one requires reactive measures.