looming problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looming problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a potential problem that is approaching or rapidly approaching. For example, "The looming problem of climate change cannot be ignored any longer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Another looming problem is Pakistan.

The New York Times

Litigation is a looming problem.

The New York Times

Commercial real estate is a looming problem.

The New York Times

And there is the looming problem.

The New Yorker

That does not seem to be a looming problem.

The New York Times

That last sentence hints at another looming problem for ImClone.

The New York Times

And, it turns out, these owners face another looming problem: getting paid.

The New York Times

The looming problem, experts noted, is that Mali remains an agrarian society.

The New York Times

But the looming problem for Berlusconi is which party he can now lead.

The Guardian

Then there is the looming problem of Titans defensive end Jevon Kearse.

The New York Times - Sports

As existing landfill sites fill up, there is also a looming problem of finding new locations.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looming problem" when you want to convey a sense of immediacy and potential threat. For instance, 'The "looming problem" of resource depletion requires immediate action.'

Common error

Avoid using "looming problem" in very casual conversation; it can sound overly dramatic. Opt for simpler terms like 'upcoming issue' or 'potential problem' instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looming problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "looming" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "problem". It describes a situation that is developing and threatening to become a significant issue. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looming problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an approaching significant issue. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it is frequently used in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts to emphasize urgency and potential impact. While suitable for formal writing, overuse in casual contexts may sound overly dramatic. Alternative phrases include "impending issue" or "emerging challenge", offering nuanced ways to express a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impending issue

Focuses more on the nearness of the event.

growing risk

Highlights the increasing potential for harm or loss.

emerging challenge

Emphasizes the aspect of difficulty and required effort to face it.

approaching difficulty

Highlights the nearing nature of a hard time or challenge.

mounting threat

Implies a growing danger or risk.

oncoming challenge

Implies an unavoidable, advancing difficulty.

gathering storm

Uses a metaphor to suggest an increasing threat.

brewing crisis

Suggests that the problem is actively developing.

developing concern

Highlights that something is growing to a state of worry.

shadowy prospect

Focuses more on the uncertainty and potential negativity.

FAQs

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

You can use "looming problem" to describe a significant issue that is likely to occur soon. For example, "The "looming problem" of climate change requires immediate attention."

What phrases are similar to "looming problem"?

Similar phrases include "impending issue", "emerging challenge", or "gathering storm". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "looming problem" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "looming problem" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing serious or urgent issues. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it fits the overall tone.

What's the difference between "looming problem" and "potential problem"?

"Looming problem" suggests a higher degree of certainty and immediacy compared to "potential problem". "Looming" implies that the problem is approaching and likely to occur, while "potential" simply indicates a possibility.