more serious problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"more serious problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when comparing multiple problems, and emphasizes that one problem is more significant or severe than another. Example: "While environmental issues are of concern, poverty remains a more serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

African "tribalism" was a more serious problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Anglo-Normans were a more serious problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But a more serious problem was the studio's output.

The Economist

A more serious problem, however, soon became obvious.

The Guardian - Books

Fleetwood is facing a far more serious problem.

The New York Times

A more serious problem is the nature of the data.

MIT Technology Review

The more serious problem is on the entertainment side.

The New York Times

It then examines a more serious problem: the spillover effects from unilateral national regulation.

Harvard University

Furthermore, it's part of a larger and much more serious problem.

Stanford University

This limitation becomes a more serious problem when a system operates for long periods of time.

University of California, Berkeley

Yet this lack of information also creates another, perhaps even more serious problem.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more serious problem", ensure you've clearly established the initial problem for comparison. This provides context and emphasizes the increased severity of the subsequent issue.

Common error

Avoid using "more serious problem" when the initial problem is trivial. This can diminish the impact and credibility of your statement. Ensure the initial problem warrants comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more serious problem" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase modifying the noun "problem". It is used to distinguish the severity of one problem over another. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this comparative function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

30%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more serious problem" is a commonly used phrase to highlight the greater severity of one issue compared to another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, the phrase frequently appears in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure you've established a clear basis for comparison and that the increased seriousness is warranted. Alternatives like "graver concern" or "significant challenge" can offer nuanced variations while maintaining the emphasis on importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

graver concern

Emphasizes the weighty nature and potential consequences of the problem.

dire predicament

Conveys a sense of urgency and potential danger associated with the problem.

critical matter

Stresses the urgency and importance requiring immediate attention.

acute crisis

Highlights the sudden and intense nature of the problem.

deeper issue

Highlights the fundamental or underlying nature of the problem.

troubling development

Emphasizes the concerning and worrying aspect of the unfolding situation.

pressing difficulty

Highlights the urgent need to address the problem.

major complication

Emphasizes the problematic and complex nature of the situation.

significant challenge

Focuses on the demanding nature and difficulty in overcoming the problem.

severe setback

Focuses on the hindrance and adverse impact caused by the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "more serious problem" in a sentence?

Use "more serious problem" to compare two issues, highlighting that one is of greater concern. For example: "While funding is limited, a "more serious problem" is the lack of qualified personnel."

What are some alternatives to "more serious problem"?

You can use alternatives like "graver concern", "deeper issue", or "significant challenge" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "more serious problem" in formal writing?

Yes, "more serious problem" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and direct way to express the significance of an issue.

What is the difference between "a problem" and "a "more serious problem""?

"A problem" refers to any issue needing attention. "A "more serious problem"" indicates that the issue is of greater importance or severity than another previously mentioned or understood issue.