number one problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "number one problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to identify the most significant issue or challenge in a given context. Example: "The number one problem facing our organization is a lack of communication among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Research on hung juries finds that the number one problem leading to a jury's inability to arrive at a verdict is the closeness of the evidence in the case.

Huffington Post

So of course obesity is our number one problem.

The Guardian

In my experience, the number one problem teachers complain about is poor behaviour in class.

The Guardian

"There is no manifest number one problem as there was in the 18th century," he said.

The Guardian

Build more homes The number one problem in the capital today is the cost of housing.

The Guardian

"Ice is now the number one problem in terms of illicit substances," justice minister Michael Keenan said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"Public urination is the number-one problem in Nigeria," he mused.

The New Yorker

President Vladimir Putin's policy is "clever and sensible"—though he also lets slip that Russia is "our number-one problem".

The Economist

In the shadow of the Taliban Jim Rohwer Reprints Related items Stockmarkets: Driven to the same depths?Sep 6th 2001Mr Yanagisawa is now Mr Koizumi's number-one problem.

The Economist

For Napoleon's prefects, the annual conscription levy was the top priority and draft evasion the number-one problem in most départements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At the comparable stage in the 1988 election, almost three-quarters of all voters said that inflation was America's number-one problem.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "number one problem", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being compared. It's most effective when highlighting the most significant issue among several others.

Common error

While "number one problem" is acceptable in most writing, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic papers. Opt for more nuanced alternatives like "primary challenge" or "key obstacle" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number one problem" functions as a noun phrase identifying the most significant issue or challenge within a specific context. Ludwig examples showcase its use in diverse fields, from politics to technology. The Ludwig AI also confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "number one problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote the most significant issue within a given context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is applicable in a range of scenarios, from identifying societal challenges to pinpointing technical difficulties. While versatile, consider the formality of your writing and opt for alternatives like "primary concern" or "key obstacle" in highly formal settings. By understanding its function and appropriate usage, you can effectively communicate the relative importance of a problem and focus attention on potential solutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary concern

Focuses on worry or anxiety related to an issue, differing slightly from a general problem.

biggest challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty in overcoming the issue, adding a sense of struggle.

main issue

A more neutral and general term, lacking the emphasis of "number one".

top priority

Highlights the need for immediate attention and action, shifting focus from problem to solution.

most pressing matter

Stresses the urgency and importance of the problem, suggesting immediate action is needed.

key obstacle

Implies the problem is hindering progress, adding a sense of obstruction.

foremost difficulty

A more formal alternative, emphasizing the seriousness and complexity of the problem.

chief concern

Similar to "primary concern" but slightly more formal and emphasizes overall worry.

central predicament

Highlights the challenging and complex nature of the problem, suggesting a difficult situation.

critical issue

Stresses the significance and potential consequences of the problem, urging careful consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "number one problem" in a sentence?

You can use "number one problem" to identify the most significant issue in a given context. For example, "The "number one problem" in our department is the lack of communication."

What are some alternatives to "number one problem"?

Alternatives include "primary concern", "biggest challenge", "main issue", or "top priority", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. For instance, you might say the "biggest challenge" is funding or the "top priority" is safety.

Is it always appropriate to use "number one problem" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, using more formal alternatives like "principal obstacle" or "key concern" might be preferable in academic or highly formal contexts to maintain a professional tone. It depends on the specific audience and the overall tone of the document.

What's the difference between "number one problem" and "a problem"?

"Number one problem" indicates the single most significant issue, whereas "a problem" refers to any issue without specifying its relative importance. Using "the "main issue"" or "the "principal issue"" may be more fitting in situations where the severity of the problem needs emphasis.