pose a smaller problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pose a smaller problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing issues or challenges that are less significant or easier to manage compared to others. Example: "While the main issue is quite complex, the secondary concerns pose a smaller problem that can be addressed more easily."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

We three vegetarians posed a small problem.

BBC

That of course poses a small logical problem: it's what we want to do in government, but we won't say it will be in the manifesto.

BBC

One provision in the new law, a ban on loans by companies to their executives, may pose a particular problem for smaller companies because they often pay part of the premium for an executive's life insurance.

The New York Times

Unstated debts pose a bigger problem to states with smaller economies.

The New York Times

Small magnets can pose a special problem.

Harvard University

A 1ft rise in sea level isn't a catastrophe, though it will pose a problem, particularly for small island nations.

The Guardian

A one-foot rise in sea level isn't a catastrophe, though it will pose a problem, particularly for small island nations.

The Washington Post

We have a small problem.

BBC

Ventilation will pose a huge problem.

The New York Times

Children pose a particular problem.

The Guardian - Music

Ticks could pose a parallel problem.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pose a smaller problem" when you want to downplay the severity of an issue, suggesting it is less significant than other related concerns or easier to resolve.

Common error

Avoid using "pose a smaller problem" when the issue is actually significant. Ensure the wording aligns with the real impact; otherwise, it can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pose a smaller problem" functions as a predicate within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper grammatical structure. It typically describes a situation or factor that presents a difficulty or challenge but is of relatively minor significance compared to other issues.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pose a smaller problem" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to denote a less significant issue or challenge. Ludwig AI validates this usage. It is most frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While the phrase is not exceptionally common, it's valuable for its ability to downplay the seriousness of an issue, suggesting it is manageable or secondary. Consider alternatives such as "present a minor challenge" or "raise a manageable concern" for similar meanings. Remember that correctly assessing the issue's scale is essential to avoid misrepresentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

present a minor challenge

Emphasizes the challenge aspect while specifying it is of lesser importance.

constitute a slight difficulty

Highlights the difficulty, portraying it as minimal or insignificant.

create a limited issue

Focuses on the issue being restricted in scope or effect.

raise a manageable concern

Indicates the concern is within acceptable boundaries to handle.

introduce a reduced obstacle

Highlights the presence of an obstacle, but its scaled-down nature.

offer a smaller hurdle

Suggests a minor barrier or impediment that requires less effort to overcome.

involve a minimal setback

Points out a hindrance that is slight and doesn't cause significant delay.

entail a trivial problem

Downplays the significance by labeling the issue as not serious or noteworthy.

represent a slight inconvenience

Focuses on the aspect of inconvenience while minimizing its impact.

generate a minor impediment

Underlines the impeding nature but designates it as limited and not too complex.

FAQs

How can I use "pose a smaller problem" in a sentence?

You can use "pose a smaller problem" to indicate that something presents a challenge, but it is not a major concern. For example: "While the main issue is complex, the secondary concerns "pose a smaller problem" that can be addressed more easily."

What's a good alternative to "pose a smaller problem"?

Alternatives include phrases like "present a minor issue", "create a lesser challenge", or "raise a manageable concern" depending on the specific context. Consider using "present a minor challenge" for a more direct substitution.

Is it correct to say "pose a smaller problem"?

Yes, "pose a smaller problem" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase. However, ensure that its usage accurately reflects the actual significance of the problem being discussed.

What is the difference between "pose a smaller problem" and "pose a significant problem"?

"Pose a smaller problem" indicates a less serious or easily manageable challenge, while "pose a significant problem" implies a major and potentially difficult issue. The choice depends on the actual impact and severity of the situation. Consider using "pose a major problem" for a stronger contrast.