intractable problem

USAGE SUMMARY

'intractable problem' is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a problem that is difficult or impossible to solve. Example: The education system is facing an intractable problem of unequal access to resources.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Corruption remained an intractable problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's not an intractable problem.

The New York Times

A more intractable problem is the music.

The New York Times

It would solve an otherwise intractable problem.

The New York Times

It is an intractable problem indeed.

The Economist

Peripheral nationalism constituted an intractable problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It need not be an intractable problem.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I don't see an intractable problem with customers.

The New York Times

Critics say the antimissile program is ignoring an intractable problem.

The New York Times

"This is not an intractable problem to be solved.

The Guardian - Sport

Factoring is what mathematicians call an intractable problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intractable problem", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates the difficulty or near impossibility of finding a solution. Avoid using it for minor issues or challenges that can be easily resolved.

Common error

Avoid using "intractable problem" to describe simple inconveniences or easily solvable issues. This can dilute the impact of the phrase and make your writing sound hyperbolic. Reserve it for truly complex and seemingly unsolvable situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intractable problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "intractable" modifies the noun "problem". It describes a specific quality of the problem, indicating its resistance to being solved. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intractable problem" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that describes a problem that is difficult or seemingly impossible to solve. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various domains. It frequently appears in news, science, and encyclopedia sources, indicating its appropriateness for formal and neutral contexts. When using this phrase, it's essential to reserve it for genuinely complex and persistent issues to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "unsolvable issue" or "insurmountable difficulty" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. By understanding its usage and context, you can effectively communicate the severity and complexity of the challenges you're addressing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsolvable issue

Focuses more directly on the lack of a solution.

insurmountable difficulty

Emphasizes the challenge as being too great to overcome.

hopeless case

Suggests a pessimistic outlook with little chance of improvement.

unmanageable situation

Highlights the inability to control or handle the problem effectively.

persistent challenge

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the problem and its resistance to solutions.

formidable obstacle

Emphasizes the significant difficulty posed by the problem.

complex dilemma

Highlights the complicated and multifaceted nature of the problem.

vexing question

Implies that the problem is not only difficult but also frustrating and annoying.

knotty issue

Uses a metaphor to describe the problem as tangled and hard to unravel.

unyielding predicament

Stresses the inflexible nature of the situation, resisting easy solutions.

FAQs

What does "intractable problem" mean?

An "intractable problem" refers to a difficulty or issue that is particularly stubborn and resistant to resolution or change. It suggests that finding a solution is exceedingly difficult, if not impossible.

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

You can use "intractable problem" to describe various complex issues. For example: "Corruption remains an "intractable problem" in many developing nations", or "Climate change presents an "intractable problem" requiring global cooperation".

What are some synonyms for "intractable problem"?

Alternatives to "intractable problem" include "unsolvable issue", "insurmountable difficulty", or "hopeless case", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "intractable problem" in formal writing?

Yes, "intractable problem" is appropriate for formal writing. It is frequently used in academic, news, and professional contexts to describe complex challenges. However, ensure the context warrants its use and avoid overuse to maintain impact.