plagued by problems

USAGE SUMMARY

"plagued by problems" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation or challenge that is full of difficulties. For example, "The project has been plagued by problems from the start."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Smithsonian has been plagued by problems.

The New York Times

The process has been plagued by problems.

The New York Times

His term in office has been plagued by problems.

The New York Times

Since its inception, the program has been plagued by problems.

The New York Times

Local phone systems are plagued by problems with antiquated equipment.

The New York Times

That subway line, which only recently had been opened, has been plagued by problems.

The New York Times

The government is working on including them, but tornado statistics are plagued by problems.

The New York Times

The study, which began enrolling patients in 2003, was plagued by problems from the start.

The New York Times - Health

It has been plagued by problems since before work began in 2007.

The New York Times

The Sept. 14 primary was plagued by problems stemming from the new machines.

The New York Times

But after it was announced, the Prudential deal was plagued by problems.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "plagued by problems", ensure that the context clearly identifies the specific issues causing the difficulties. This provides clarity and avoids vague or ambiguous statements.

Common error

Avoid using "plagued by problems" as a generic descriptor without specifying what those problems are. Instead of saying "The project was plagued by problems", state "The project was plagued by problems such as budget overruns and scheduling delays".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plagued by problems" functions as a post-positive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that it is consistently affected by difficulties. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plagued by problems" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something consistently facing difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage and correctness. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, with significant presence in scientific writing as well. While versatile, ensuring clarity by specifying the nature of the problems enhances its effectiveness. Consider alternatives like "beset by difficulties" or "troubled by issues" to adjust the nuance, as appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beset by difficulties

This alternative replaces "plagued" with "beset", which carries a similar meaning of being troubled or harassed, and "problems" with "difficulties".

troubled by issues

This alternative uses "troubled" instead of "plagued", conveying a sense of worry or difficulty, and replaces "problems" with "issues".

dogged by setbacks

This alternative uses "dogged" to mean persistently followed or harassed, replacing "plagued", and "setbacks" instead of "problems", suggesting hindrances or failures.

marred by complications

This alternative uses "marred" to suggest that something has been spoiled or damaged by complications instead of simply being troubled by problems.

hampered by obstacles

This alternative changes the verb to "hampered", indicating that progress has been impeded, and replaces "problems" with "obstacles".

afflicted by troubles

This alternative uses "afflicted" to indicate suffering or distress, similar to being plagued, and replaces "problems" with "troubles".

beset with challenges

This alternative replaces "plagued" with "beset", again implying trouble, and uses "challenges" instead of "problems", suggesting difficulties that require effort to overcome.

ridden with difficulties

This alternative uses "ridden" to describe being overwhelmed or dominated by difficulties, similar to being plagued.

burdened by snags

This alternative uses "burdened" to convey the sense of being weighed down by problems, and replaces "problems" with "snags", suggesting minor difficulties or hitches.

encumbered by hitches

This alternative replaces "plagued" with "encumbered", meaning burdened or impeded, and "problems" with "hitches", which are minor or temporary difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "plagued by problems" in a sentence?

You can use "plagued by problems" to describe something that is consistently experiencing difficulties, for example, "The company's growth was plagued by problems related to supply chain disruptions".

What are some alternatives to "plagued by problems"?

Alternatives include "beset by difficulties", "troubled by issues", or "dogged by setbacks", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the system is plagued with problems" instead of "plagued by problems"?

While "plagued by problems" is the more standard and common usage, "plagued with problems" can also be used, although it is less frequent. The meaning remains essentially the same.

What does it mean when something is described as "plagued by problems"?

It means that the thing being described is consistently experiencing difficulties, setbacks, or issues that negatively impact its progress or function.