largest problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "largest problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the most significant or serious issue in a given context. Example: "The largest problem we face today is climate change and its impact on our environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The largest problem was a lack of basic goods caused by the embargo.

The New York Times - Travel

"Our allies in the region were our largest problem in Syria," Biden said.

The New Yorker

But the largest problem is the purple sea urchin, which loves to eat giant kelp.

The New Yorker

Philanthropy's largest problem these days probably isn't a lack of big gifts.

The New York Times - Magazine

Oddly, the bitcoins taken from the servers of the Silk Road are not the US government's largest problem.

Independent

The sexual abuse of children by priests is the largest problem facing the church, Catholics in the poll said.

The New York Times

Ohio remains the largest problem for Mr. Romney, where he has been behind in most polls all year.

The New York Times

In the short term, the largest problem still afflicting the economy appears to be the lack of job growth.

The New York Times

She said her largest problem was a creeping weakness and constant ache in her arms and wrists.

The New York Times

Perhaps the largest problem for investors who might otherwise be willing to return to the mortgage market is the lack of transparency in privately issued securities.

The New York Times

The most socially conservative states are in the South, where the group with the largest problem with family breakdown African Americans votes solidly Democratic.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "largest problem", ensure the context clearly defines the scope. For instance, specify whether it's the largest problem for a particular project, organization, or society.

Common error

Avoid using "largest problem" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for genuinely critical issues that have substantial impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "largest problem" functions as a noun phrase, where 'largest' modifies 'problem' to indicate the most significant issue. Ludwig examples show its wide applicability across various subjects.

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, "largest problem" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to denote the most significant issue in a given situation. Ludwig's analysis confirms its suitability across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business, with a neutral to professional register. While highly versatile, remember to reserve it for truly critical issues and to clearly define the scope. Alternative phrasing such as "most significant issue" or "biggest challenge" can provide nuanced variations. Always ensure clarity when specifying exactly what the "largest problem" affects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most significant issue

Replaces "largest" with "most significant", emphasizing importance.

biggest challenge

Substitutes "problem" with "challenge", suggesting difficulty rather than negativity.

greatest difficulty

Replaces both words to highlight severity and struggle.

primary concern

Shifts focus to worry or anxiety about the issue.

main obstacle

Emphasizes the hindering nature of the issue.

foremost issue

Highlights the prominence and priority of the matter.

critical challenge

Combines urgency and difficulty in the description.

most pressing concern

Highlights the urgency and worry related to the issue.

major impediment

Focuses on the obstructive nature of the issue.

chief difficulty

Emphasizes that the issue is the principal struggle.

FAQs

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

You can use "largest problem" to highlight the most significant issue within a specific context. For example, "The "largest problem" facing the company is declining sales."

What are some alternatives to "largest problem"?

Alternatives include "most significant issue", "biggest challenge", or "primary concern", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "largest problem" is appropriate for formal writing, but ensure the tone remains objective and professional. Consider alternatives like "foremost issue" for a slightly more elevated register.

What's the difference between "largest problem" and "major problem"?

"Largest problem" implies it is the most significant among several issues, while "major problem" simply indicates a considerable issue without necessarily being the most significant. Choose the term that accurately reflects the relative severity.