key problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"key problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It generally is used when referring to a major challenge or obstacle. For example, "Finding a solution to the unfair distribution of wealth is the key problem of our time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key problem is..

The Guardian - Sport

The key problem is calibration.

The Economist

Obviousness is the key problem.

The New York Times - Magazine

The key problem was yield.

The Guardian - Tech

A key problem is poor infrastructure.

The Guardian

The first key problem is political priority.

The Guardian

And that was the key problem.

The Guardian

But the group has a key problem.

The Guardian - Film

The key problem may have been psychological.

The Guardian

Another key problem seems to be a lack of recognition.

The Guardian

As things stand, May has one key problem.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "key problem" to introduce the main obstacle or challenge in a discussion or analysis, clearly setting the focus for the reader or listener.

Common error

Avoid using "key problem" for minor or secondary issues. This weakens your argument and can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key problem" functions as a noun phrase where "key" modifies "problem", indicating the most important or crucial issue being discussed. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key problem" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase to denote the most significant issue in a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. It is versatile enough to be used in news, science, and business contexts. When writing, ensure that the identified problem truly represents the most critical challenge. Alternatives like "main issue" or "central challenge" can be used for a similar effect. Avoid overstating the significance of minor issues by labeling them as "key problem". Overall, it is a versatile and widely recognized phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main issue

Focuses on the centrality of the problem, using "issue" instead of "problem".

critical issue

Highlights the importance of the problem as a matter of urgency.

central challenge

Replaces "problem" with "challenge", emphasizing the difficulty aspect.

primary concern

Highlights the importance of the problem as a matter of worry.

fundamental difficulty

Emphasizes the basic or essential nature of the difficulty.

core obstacle

Uses "obstacle" to underscore the hindering effect of the problem.

chief impediment

Replaces "problem" with "impediment", suggesting something that delays or prevents progress.

major stumbling block

Emphasizes the hindering aspect, using a more figurative expression.

root cause

Indicates the underlying reason for a problem, focusing on the origin.

underlying issue

Focuses on the issue that may not be immediately obvious.

FAQs

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

You can use "key problem" to identify the most significant issue in a situation. For instance, "The "key problem" with the project is the lack of funding".

What are some alternatives to "key problem"?

Alternatives include "main issue", "central challenge", or "primary concern", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "key problem" or "main problem"?

Both "key problem" and "main problem" are acceptable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Key problem" often implies a problem that unlocks or influences other issues.

What's the difference between "key problem" and "root cause"?

"Key problem" refers to the most significant issue, while "root cause" indicates the fundamental reason why a problem exists. They are related but not interchangeable.