pervasive problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"pervasive problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a problem that affects a large area, or a problem which affects many aspects of something. For example, "The lack of affordable housing is a pervasive problem in many urban areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"This is such a pervasive problem.

Independent

Sexual abuse is a pervasive problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a pervasive problem these days.

The New York Times

"Poaching is certainly a pervasive problem," Dr. Rand said.

The New York Times

"There's a pervasive problem of corruption in Iraq," she said.

The New York Times

That's a pervasive problem throughout the tax system.

The New York Times

This is a pervasive problem that needs attention.

The New York Times

Three-quarters said yes. "This suggests it's a pretty pervasive problem," he said.

The New York Times

"A pervasive problem," a member of the class of 2013 wrote on nytimes.com.

The New York Times

Heavily traveled, these roads are subject to traffic gridlock, a pervasive problem that remains unresolved.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Why is child trafficking such a pervasive problem in the northeast?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pervasive problem", provide specific examples to illustrate the extent and impact of the issue. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "pervasive problem" without sufficient evidence. Ensure the problem is genuinely widespread and not merely an isolated incident to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pervasive problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "pervasive" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "problem". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable. Examples show it is used to highlight issues affecting many aspects of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pervasive problem" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase to describe a widespread issue. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. It functions as a noun phrase and its primary purpose is to highlight issues affecting many aspects of a situation. As shown through numerous examples from news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, the phrase is versatile and impactful. To enhance your writing, remember to provide specific instances of the problem's reach. While "pervasive problem" is strong, alternatives such as "ubiquitous problem" or "widespread issue" can add variety to your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pervasive issue

Replaces "problem" with "issue", offering a slightly softer connotation.

ubiquitous problem

Highlights the widespread presence and common occurrence of the problem.

omnipresent problem

Stresses that the problem is present everywhere and unavoidable.

deep problem

Emphasizes the intensity and rooted nature of the problem.

rampant problem

Suggests that the problem is growing quickly and out of control.

broad problem

Indicates the extensive scope and wide-ranging impact of the problem.

dominant problem

Implies that the problem is the most significant or influential one.

severe problem

Emphasizes the gravity and seriousness of the problem.

frequent problem

Focuses on the regular occurrence and common nature of the problem.

intensive problem

Suggests a problem needing significant resources and attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "pervasive problem" to describe issues that are widespread and affect many aspects of a situation. For example, "Corruption is a "pervasive problem" in many developing countries."

What can I say instead of "pervasive problem"?

You can use alternatives like "ubiquitous problem", "widespread issue", or "rampant problem" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "pervasive problem" or "common problem"?

"Pervasive problem" suggests a deeper, more ingrained issue than "common problem". Use ""pervasive problem"" when the problem affects many aspects of a system or society, while "common problem" simply indicates that it occurs frequently.

What's the difference between "pervasive problem" and "systemic problem"?

"Systemic problem" implies that the problem is inherent within a system's structure, while ""pervasive problem"" suggests the problem is widespread and affects many areas, but not necessarily because of a flawed system. A systemic problem is always pervasive, but a pervasive problem isn't always systemic.