likely problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a potential issue or concern that is expected to occur based on certain circumstances or evidence. Example: "Based on the data we've collected, the likely problem is a lack of resources for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

The candidate asked the racer what the most likely problem she would encounter on the track.

The New York Times

For Johnson, a likely problem will be bitterness from some remain supporters.

The Guardian

Mold is a more likely problem, but even that is rare.

The New York Times - Food

Watson's most likely problem is one of detachment with a group of players who did not encounter his competitive pomp first hand.

The Guardian - Sport

On his site, Mr. Rosenthal, the computer consultant, offers several flow charts that help isolate the likely problem and also has take-apart guides for popular laptop models.

The New York Times - Tech

A far more likely problem is that this new drug benefit will exacerbate long-term deficits, which already threaten to drive up interest rates and undermine future prosperity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

They are all likely problems that have no one solution, but a long road of getting closer.

TechCrunch

Mr Vaz argued that the home secretary and immigration minister should have worked with governments in Bucharest and Sofia to address some of the likely problems before now.

BBC

Funding is undeniably crucial, but these are likely problems which run deep.

Vice

They were given the Clinic's standard screening sensory tests as a first pass procedure designed to detect likely problems of both taste and smell.

Plosone

9. Likely problems, in the judgment of the investigators, with maintaining follow-up.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely problem", ensure the context provides sufficient evidence or reasoning to support the assertion that the problem is indeed likely. For instance, cite data or previous experiences to strengthen your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "likely problem" when the issue is merely a remote possibility. Reserve it for situations where there is a reasonable basis to expect the problem to occur.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely problem" functions as a noun phrase, where 'likely' modifies the noun 'problem'. It indicates a potential issue that is expected or probable. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely problem" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a potential issue that is expected to occur. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in various contexts. It appears frequently in news and media, scientific articles, and wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the context supports the likelihood of the problem. Alternatives such as "probable issue" or "potential difficulty" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probable issue

Emphasizes the probability of the problem occurring.

potential difficulty

Highlights the possibility of a challenging situation.

expected complication

Focuses on the anticipation of a complex or troublesome situation.

foreseeable challenge

Stresses the ability to predict the issue beforehand.

anticipated hurdle

Highlights the expectation of an obstacle.

plausible setback

Suggests a believable or realistic impediment.

possible snag

Indicates a potential minor difficulty or impediment.

conceivable issue

Focuses on the possibility of the problem being imagined or thought of.

realistic concern

Highlights the practicality and validity of the worry.

credible threat

Emphasizes the believability and seriousness of the potential problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "likely problem" to point out a potential issue that is expected based on available information. For example, "The "likely problem" with the project is insufficient funding".

What are some alternatives to saying "likely problem"?

Alternatives include "probable issue", "potential difficulty", or "expected complication" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "likely problem" or "potential problem"?

"Likely problem" suggests a higher degree of probability than "potential problem". Use "likely problem" when there is strong evidence suggesting the issue will occur, and "potential problem" when it is merely a possibility.

What's the difference between "likely problem" and "most likely problem"?

"Most likely problem" emphasizes that this is the most probable issue among several possibilities, whereas "likely problem" simply indicates a single probable issue without comparison to others.