mention a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mention a problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to bring up or refer to an issue or difficulty in a discussion or conversation. Example: "During the meeting, please feel free to mention a problem if you encounter any challenges with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Here, I must briefly mention a problem with Michael Lewis's generally superb financial journalism.

The Guardian - Business

It can identify good practice but can also mention a problem and say how it's being addressed.

The Guardian

They repeatedly told Mr. Rhoades that they would not mention a problem to their doctors during a visit, unless the doctor specifically asked.

The New York Times - Health

When I started this program, I was intimidated by the thought of elicitation understanding stakeholders' underlying needs, not superficial ones because when I hear someone mention a problem, I like to solve it but was fearful that I would come up with effective but not efficient solutions.

University of California, Berkeley

Oh, I forgot to mention a problem that priests experienced when they had to hear the drone of confessions in the booth.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Then they mentioned a problem tranferring the money electronically.

The New York Times

If she mentions a problem with something I'm doing, there probably is".

The New York Times

He specifically mentioned a problem purchasing "Tiger" vehicles outfitted with American-manufactured engines from Jordan, due to a U.S. legal restriction on Libya's purchase of American-equipment.

The Guardian

Difficulties arose in the consultation when the patient mentioned a problem that the health professional perceived to be important but unrelated to the disease under review.

BMJ Open

There is a downside, of course, because if the Fed creates too much money we'll end up with an inflation problem (not to mention a credibility problem).

Forbes

You fail to mention a major problem facing our city, that of affordable housing.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mention a problem", ensure you provide sufficient context for the listener or reader to understand the nature and scope of the issue. Avoid vague or ambiguous references.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when you can be more direct. Instead of saying "A problem was mentioned", consider saying "The employee mentioned a problem" for clearer communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mention a problem" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a clause to introduce or refer to an existing issue. This is supported by Ludwig and examples where it's used to describe the act of bringing up a difficulty.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mention a problem" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, suitable for a variety of contexts as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves the purpose of introducing or referring to an issue, primarily in news, academic, and scientific settings. While not overly formal, it should be used with sufficient context to ensure clear understanding of the issue being raised. Alternative phrases such as "raise an issue" or "point out a difficulty" can be used to add variety or nuance to your writing. Remember to avoid overuse of passive voice for clearer communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raise an issue

Emphasizes bringing up a problem for discussion or resolution.

point out a difficulty

Highlights the act of directing attention to a specific problem.

highlight a concern

Focuses on emphasizing the importance or worry associated with the problem.

bring up a matter

A more general way of introducing a topic, which may or may not be a problem.

address a challenge

Frames the problem as a challenge to be overcome, often used in business or formal contexts.

note a complication

Indicates the problem is a complex or intricate issue.

touch upon a snag

Implies briefly mentioning a small or unexpected problem.

refer to a hitch

Similar to 'touch upon a snag', suggesting a minor and temporary problem.

allude to an obstacle

Indirectly suggests the existence of a barrier or impediment.

air a grievance

Expresses a complaint or resentment about a problem, often in a formal setting.

FAQs

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

You can use "mention a problem" to introduce an issue or difficulty in a discussion. For example, "During the meeting, please feel free to "mention a problem" if you encounter any challenges with the project."

What are some alternatives to "mention a problem"?

You can use alternatives like "raise an issue", "point out a difficulty", or "highlight a concern" depending on the context.

Is it better to "mention a problem" or "address a problem"?

The choice depends on the context. "Mention a problem" simply introduces the issue, while "address a problem" implies taking action to resolve it.

What does it mean to "mention a problem" in a formal setting?

In formal settings, to ""mention a problem"" means to bring up an issue in a professional and appropriate manner, often with the expectation of further discussion or action.