nothing but problems

USAGE SUMMARY

"nothing but problems" is a valid phrase in written English, and can be used to refer to a situation which is difficult or challenging.
For example: "Since the new software was installed, there's been nothing but problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

There's nothing but problems.

The New York Times

"Zero problems" has notoriously become "nothing but problems".

The New York Times

Growing up, I had nothing but problems focusing in school.

The New York Times

"Good," she said, "because that brought you nothing but problems".

The New York Times

"If that image was beamed around the world on TV, it would cause nothing but problems".

The New York Times - Sports

If you don't have a plan, you're going to have nothing but problems".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

He had spent the entire day with a feeling of lightness, although there had been nothing but problem customers, the type who could not really afford their expensive cars.

The New Yorker

In Slovakia, which has been struggling with privatization and restructuring, Gypsies say that democracy has brought nothing but more problems and discrimination.

The New York Times

Taking an entire company "Dark" after a merger does nothing but cause problems for customers.

TechCrunch

Now he tells me that sex does nothing but cause problems and it's just a cruel ironic twist of fate that women have stronger desires than men in their late 30's.

Huffington Post

The world is nothing but a problem to be solved by enthusiasm.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "nothing but problems", ensure the context clearly defines what is causing the issues to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "nothing but problems" is acceptable, in formal writing, consider more precise and descriptive alternatives like "a series of complications" or "beset with challenges" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nothing but problems" functions primarily as a descriptor, indicating that a situation, entity, or experience is characterized solely by difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and readily understood in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

13%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "nothing but problems" is a common and readily understood expression used to describe situations overwhelmingly characterized by difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and widely accepted phrase in English. Linguistic analysis reveals its primary function as a descriptor, conveying frustration or concern across neutral registers. While frequently found in News & Media contexts, it's essential to consider more formal alternatives like "a series of difficulties" or "fraught with complications" for professional writing. By understanding its usage patterns and potential alternatives, writers can effectively communicate the intended meaning while maintaining appropriate tone and clarity. With 17 examples found in Ludwig, this phrase's prevalence and versatility is confirmed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a constant source of trouble

This alternative focuses on the ongoing nature of the problems, portraying them as a continuous burden.

plagued by difficulties

This alternative indicates that something is constantly affected or burdened by problems.

unending stream of issues

This phrase emphasizes the never-ending flow of problems, suggesting a continuous barrage of difficulties.

a host of issues

This option highlights the abundance of problems present, suggesting a large quantity of concerns.

beset with challenges

This phrase suggests that something is surrounded or attacked by challenges, highlighting the struggle to overcome them.

a series of difficulties

This alternative focuses on a sequence of troublesome events, emphasizing the continuous nature of the issues.

fraught with complications

This option emphasizes the presence of intricate and complex issues.

an array of troubles

This phrase emphasizes the variety of problems encountered, implying a range of different difficulties.

riddled with setbacks

This phrase highlights the repeated occurrence of obstacles and failures.

a cascade of crises

This option illustrates a series of events, emphasizing the severity and overwhelming nature of the crises.

FAQs

How can I use "nothing but problems" in a sentence?

You can use "nothing but problems" to describe a situation or object that causes continuous difficulties, such as: "Since the acquisition, the company has faced "nothing but problems"."

What are some alternatives to "nothing but problems"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "series of difficulties", "host of issues", or "constant source of trouble" as alternatives to "nothing but problems".

Is "nothing but problems" too informal for professional writing?

While "nothing but problems" is widely understood, it might be considered less formal. For professional contexts, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "fraught with complications" or "beset with challenges".

What's the difference between "nothing but problems" and "full of problems"?

"Nothing but problems" emphasizes that there are exclusively problems and nothing else, whereas "full of problems" implies that problems are abundant but there might be other elements present as well.