original problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "original problem" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the initial issue or difficulty that is being addressed or discussed. Example: The scientist was determined to find a solution to the original problem of global warming. In this example, "original problem" refers to the main issue of global warming that the scientist is trying to solve.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The original problem can recur after surgery.

The New York Times - Health

Then we discussed various extensions of the original problem.

The New York Times

Finally you have to go back from maths to your original problem.

The New York Times

The original problem asked for a match between any two people on any day.

The New York Times

Wilt himself was the original problem player, skipping practices, disappearing at key moments of games.

The New Yorker

Now that brings me back to my original problem — the cat door.

The New York Times

With the passage of time, there is a danger that people forget the original problem".

The Guardian

"If not done right, the treatment can be worse than the original problem," Paley said.

The New York Times - Sports

This will contradict our original problem.

Boundary Value Problems

Start with the original problem of size.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

First, we have the original problem P1.

Urban Rail Transit

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing solutions, clearly distinguish between addressing the symptoms and tackling the "original problem". This ensures comprehensive problem-solving.

Common error

Avoid merely treating the symptoms of a situation while ignoring the "original problem". This can lead to recurring issues and ineffective long-term solutions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "original problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage, indicating its role in identifying the initial issue or difficulty at hand.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "original problem" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to the initial issue or difficulty that needs to be addressed. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse sources. The analysis reveals that it functions as a noun phrase, serving to highlight the root cause in both formal and informal settings. To ensure clarity and effectiveness in writing, distinguish between addressing symptoms and tackling the "original problem" directly. Remember to carefully consider the context and choose the most appropriate alternative phrase, such as "initial issue" or "root cause", when aiming for precision or variety in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial issue

Focuses on the starting point of a difficulty or challenge.

root cause

Emphasizes the fundamental source or origin of the problem.

underlying difficulty

Highlights a less obvious, fundamental problem.

primary challenge

Stresses the main obstacle or hurdle.

starting point

Focuses on where the problem began.

initial dilemma

Presents the problem as a difficult choice or situation.

original source of trouble

Highlights the origin and the negative impact of the problem.

core issue

Highlights the central or most important aspect of the problem.

presenting problem

Describes the problem as it initially appears or is presented.

underlying reason

Highlights the fundamental explanation of a problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "original problem" to refer to the initial issue or difficulty that needs to be addressed. For example, "The team revisited the project's "original problem" to find a more effective solution".

What are some alternatives to "original problem"?

Alternatives include "initial issue", "root cause", or "underlying difficulty", depending on the context.

Is it better to address the symptoms or the "original problem"?

While addressing symptoms can provide temporary relief, it's crucial to address the "original problem" for a long-term, sustainable solution. Ignoring the root cause can lead to recurring issues.

What's the difference between "original problem" and "underlying issue"?

While both refer to a source of trouble, "original problem" typically denotes the initial manifestation of a difficulty, whereas "underlying issue" refers to a less obvious, fundamental problem that may be contributing to the situation.