main problem with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "main problem with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to identify the primary issue or challenge associated with a particular subject or situation. Example: "The main problem with the current policy is that it does not address the needs of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's the main problem with our children".

The Guardian

Ultimately, the main problem with the XC60 is me.

The Guardian - Tech

Here's the main problem with fish: they look like fish.

The New Yorker

The main problem with the offside law is interpretation.

The Guardian - Sport

The main problem with the bonus spiral, though, is social.

The Guardian - Business

My main problem with this view is that it's wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

KC: My main problem with these was getting them on!

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Here is the main problem with Baxter's entrails-first aesthetic.

The New Yorker

The main problem with NASA is not lack of money.

The New York Times - Science

That is the main problem with mud; it sticks.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The main problem with making resolutions is that they can quickly feel like a chore.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language by using synonyms like "primary issue", "chief concern", or "major difficulty" to avoid repetition and enhance the clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "main problem with" when the issue is merely a minor inconvenience or preference. Reserve this phrase for significant challenges or critical flaws that substantially impact the subject at hand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main problem with" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable in written English for pointing out central issues. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its versatile application in identifying problems across varied subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "main problem with" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to identify the most significant issue associated with a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. While versatile, writers should ensure the identified problem is genuinely significant to avoid overstatement. Alternatives like "primary issue with" or "chief concern regarding" can be used to add nuance. This analysis underscores its importance as a tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary issue with

Replaces "problem" with "issue", indicating a matter of concern or difficulty.

chief concern regarding

Substitutes "problem" with "concern" and adds "regarding" to specify the subject of the concern.

major difficulty with

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

principal challenge involving

Uses "challenge" instead of "problem", highlighting the obstacle, and "involving" to link it to a specific situation.

core issue surrounding

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the problem using "core" and specifies its context with "surrounding".

central flaw in

Replaces "problem" with "flaw", suggesting a defect or imperfection.

key obstacle to

Uses "obstacle" instead of "problem", emphasizing the barrier it presents.

fundamental snag in

Substitutes "problem" with "snag", indicating a minor difficulty or setback.

biggest drawback of

Replaces "problem" with "drawback", highlighting a disadvantage or negative aspect.

underlying cause of

Shifts the focus to the root cause of the problem, rather than the problem itself.

FAQs

What's a good alternative to "main problem with"?

Consider alternatives like "primary issue with", "chief concern regarding", or "major difficulty with" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

You can structure sentences like: "The "main problem with" the project is the lack of funding", or "The "main problem with" this approach is its complexity".

Is "main problem with" formal or informal?

The phrase "main problem with" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "principal challenge involving" or "core issue surrounding".

What is the difference between "main problem with" and "biggest drawback of"?

While both phrases highlight a negative aspect, "main problem with" typically refers to a central issue causing difficulties, whereas "biggest drawback of" specifically indicates a significant disadvantage or negative consequence.