intriguing problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intriguing problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a problem that captures interest or curiosity, often in academic or analytical contexts. Example: "The researchers encountered an intriguing problem that required innovative solutions to address."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

But when an intriguing problem requires it, they step up to the plate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Spadea's run here creates an intriguing problem for Patrick McEnroe, the United States Davis Cup captain.

The New York Times - Sports

One intriguing problem for tight sandstone gas accumulation is how gas was trapped in the tight-sandstone reservoirs.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

The pricing of American options has been widely acknowledged as "a much more intriguing" problem in financial engineering.

Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control

The asymmetrical statistical distribution of parity of nuclear levels at low energies poses an intriguing problem leading to larger uncertainties in the calculated values of cross-sections.

Nuclear Physics A

Though an intriguing problem in geophysical fluid dynamics, superrotation is arguably of limited consequence for the broader climate system unless it is felt at the surface, where it can alter the ocean circulation and surface temperature patterns.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

In this collection of twenty-six intriguing problems, he explores how mathematical physicists think.

Princeton University

Protein recognition is one of the most challenging and intriguing problems in structural biology.

Journal of Molecular Biology

This was resolved after management set a strict deadline and promised the group equally intriguing problems in the future.

The New York Times - Tech

Based on these findings, we present intriguing problems and put forth hypotheses that can be addressed in future studies.

Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology

That experience opened my eyes to a suite of complex and intriguing problems related to accessing finance for new utility scale renewable energy projects in the region.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing academic or scientific challenges, use "intriguing problem" to convey intellectual stimulation and encourage deeper investigation.

Common error

While "intriguing problem" is valid, it can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "interesting issue" or "puzzle" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intriguing problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'intriguing' modifies the noun 'problem'. It describes a particular kind of problem, one that is interesting and often intellectually stimulating. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various writing contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

22%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intriguing problem" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a problem that is interesting and intellectually stimulating. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is best suited for formal contexts such as science, academia, and news. While "interesting problem" can serve as a simpler alternative, "intriguing problem" adds a layer of complexity and captivation. The phrase's strong presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and Nature underscores its reliability and relevance in academic and professional writing. When aiming to convey that a problem warrants deeper exploration, "intriguing problem" is an excellent choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

captivating challenge

Changes the noun to emphasize the demanding nature of the situation.

fascinating dilemma

Replaces both words with synonyms that highlight the engaging and perplexing aspect.

engrossing puzzle

Substitutes with words suggesting deep interest and complexity.

compelling question

Shifts focus to the interrogative nature of the subject.

remarkable quandary

Uses more formal vocabulary to denote a difficult situation.

curious predicament

Emphasizes the unusual and possibly troublesome aspect.

arresting enigma

Employs stronger terms to highlight the mysterious quality.

provocative issue

Highlights the thought-provoking nature of the matter.

stimulating question

Replaces the noun with a word that emphasizing the inspiring aspect.

noteworthy complexity

Focuses on the intricate and significant elements of the situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "intriguing problem" to describe a question or situation that is interesting and challenging to solve. For example: "The asymmetrical statistical distribution of parity of nuclear levels at low energies poses an "intriguing problem" leading to larger uncertainties in the calculated values of cross-sections."

What are some alternatives to "intriguing problem"?

Alternatives include "captivating challenge", "fascinating dilemma", or "engrossing puzzle". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "intriguing problem" or "interesting problem"?

"Intriguing problem" suggests a higher level of complexity and intellectual stimulation than "interesting problem". Use "intriguing" when you want to emphasize the captivating or puzzling nature of the issue.

What makes a problem "intriguing"?

An "intriguing" problem is one that sparks curiosity and invites further investigation. It often involves complex or unexpected elements that make it particularly engaging.