main problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"main problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the biggest or most important issue that needs to be addressed. For example: "The main problem with the city's public transportation system is that it is unreliable and inefficient."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The main problem is noise.

The New York Times

Bhutan's main problem is height.

The New York Times - Sports

This is the main problem.

The New Yorker

"Their main problem is land.

The New York Times

Piracy is the main problem.

The Economist

Sock's main problem was returning.

The New York Times

My main problem?

The New York Times

That was the main problem".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The main problem is insecurity.

The New York Times

"The main problem is water.

The Guardian

Which was the main problem.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "main problem", ensure it clearly identifies the most significant issue. Avoid vague or overly general statements. Instead, follow up immediately with specifics.

Common error

Don't label a minor inconvenience as the "main problem". Reserve this phrase for issues with significant impact. Misusing it dilutes the significance of genuine key issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show it identifying the most significant issue in a given context. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "main problem" is a grammatically sound and very common way to identify the most significant issue needing attention. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's a clear and direct expression frequently found in news and media. While versatile, be mindful of accurately representing the severity of the issue to avoid diluting its impact. For alternative phrasing, consider "key issue" or "primary concern" for similar but subtly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key issue

Focuses on the central aspect needing resolution.

primary concern

Highlights the most important worry or point of attention.

central difficulty

Emphasizes the core challenge or obstacle.

chief obstacle

Identifies the principal impediment to progress.

major impediment

Highlights a significant hindrance.

fundamental issue

Indicates a basic or essential problem.

core challenge

Stresses the fundamental difficulty to be overcome.

biggest issue

Simple substitution with 'biggest' instead of 'main'.

principal hurdle

Highlights the primary obstacle preventing advancement.

major sticking point

Emphasizes the primary area of disagreement or conflict.

FAQs

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

You can use "main problem" to identify the most significant issue needing resolution, like in the sentence, "The "main problem" is the lack of funding for the project."

What are some alternatives to "main problem"?

Alternatives include "key issue", "primary concern", or "central difficulty", depending on the context.

Is it acceptable to use "main problem" in formal writing?

Yes, "main problem" is acceptable in formal writing. It's a clear and direct way to identify the most significant issue. Consider alternatives such as "principal issue" for added formality if required.

What's the difference between "main problem" and "a problem"?

"Main problem" identifies the most significant issue, whereas "a problem" refers to any issue, regardless of its importance. The word "main" specifies that it's the most important problem.