highlight the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"highlight the problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to stress the importance of a problem that you are discussing, or when you want to draw attention to a problem. For example: "In this report, we will highlight the problem of poor sanitation in rural villages, and discuss potential solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cleveland vouchers highlight the problem.

The New York Times

But that, at least, would highlight the problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

By all means we should highlight the problem of health tourism.

The Guardian

Where it's working, organisations rarely want to highlight the problem is now resolved".

The Guardian

"Workers also highlight the problem of poor ventilation and inadequate personal protective equipment".

The New York Times

That would highlight the problem while also underscoring the most necessary action to be taken this very instant.

The Guardian - Opinion

To highlight the problem, one group of vets established a spoof organisation called the British Veterinary Voodoo Society.

The Guardian

The original artwork was designed for Greenpeace's Save Or Delete campaign and was intended to highlight the problem of deforestation.

Independent

The current situation in Iraq, some critics say, may highlight the problem of depending too much on virtual realities for training.

The New York Times - Tech

In November 2015, MIA released a music video to highlight the problem, featuring young men scaling walls and crowded into boats and canoes.

The Guardian - Music

From Kathmandu to Buenos Aires, it says, journalists' unions are taking part in meetings, protests, training sessions and marches to highlight the problem.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "highlight the problem" when you want to draw specific attention to an issue that needs to be addressed or solved. It's useful in reports, presentations, and discussions where clarity and focus are important.

Common error

Avoid using "highlight the problem" in very casual conversations. Opt for simpler phrases like "talk about the problem" or "mention the issue" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "highlight the problem" functions as a verb phrase used to introduce or emphasize an existing issue. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase in English. It's used to stress the importance of a problem being discussed or to draw attention to it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "highlight the problem" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to draw attention to an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. It is frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in informal conversations, opting for simpler alternatives when appropriate. Understanding its function and purpose allows for effective communication in diverse written forms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highlight the trouble

Replaces "problem" with "trouble", implying a more immediate or disruptive issue. It's slightly less formal.

highlight the issue

Substitutes "problem" with "issue", suggesting a matter of public concern or debate, often used in formal contexts.

emphasize the problem

Uses "emphasize" instead of "highlight", focusing on stressing the importance of the problem, rather than simply drawing attention.

underline the problem

Replaces "highlight" with "underline", creating a visual metaphor of stressing the importance of an existing problem.

shed light on the problem

This alternative introduces the metaphor of 'shedding light', indicating the phrase aims to reveal information or provide clarity regarding the problem.

draw attention to the problem

Replaces "highlight" with the more direct phrase "draw attention to", focusing on the act of making the problem noticeable.

call attention to the problem

Similar to "draw attention to", this phrase is more emphatic in making sure the problem is noticed.

focus attention on the problem

This alternative suggests a concentrated effort to make sure the issue receives adequate scrutiny.

bring the problem to the forefront

Suggests elevating the problem to a prominent position for discussion and resolution. It emphasizes visibility.

underscore the significance of the problem

This alternative stresses the importance of the issue, suggesting it needs special consideration.

FAQs

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

You can use "highlight the problem" to emphasize an issue needing attention, as in "The report aims to "highlight the problem" of climate change and propose solutions".

What can I say instead of "highlight the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "emphasize the problem", "underline the problem", or "draw attention to the problem" depending on the context.

Which is more appropriate, "highlight the problem" or "address the problem"?

"Highlight the problem" focuses on bringing attention to an issue, while "address the problem" implies taking action to resolve it. The choice depends on whether you are emphasizing awareness or solutions.

Is "highlight the problem" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, ""highlight the problem"" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in reports, academic papers, and professional communications where clear and direct language is valued.