potential problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"potential problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are discussing a situation that might cause problems in the future. For example, "The forecasted increase in demand for our products could be a potential problem for our company if we are not able to meet the demand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The potential problem?

The New York Times - Food

Enforcement is another potential problem.

The New York Times

That is the potential problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, declarer noticed a potential problem.

The New York Times

But it also created a potential problem.

The New Yorker

City officials acknowledge the potential problem.

The New York Times

"The potential problem is that the T.D.F.

The New York Times

Shale gas itself presents another potential problem.

The New Yorker

And there's an even bigger potential problem.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But this structure raises another potential problem.

The New Yorker

"That is a potential problem," he admits.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "potential problem", clearly articulate the specific consequences that might arise if the problem is not addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "potential problem" without specifying what makes it a problem. Always provide context or details about the potential negative impacts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "potential problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "potential" modifies the noun "problem". As highlighted by Ludwig, it describes a problem that is possible or likely to occur in the future.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

26%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "potential problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a future difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, be specific about the nature of the problem and its possible consequences. Alternatives like "possible issue" or "likely difficulty" can add nuance depending on the context. Remember to provide context and details to avoid vague problem descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

possible issue

Focuses on the possibility of a problem arising.

likely difficulty

Emphasizes the probability of encountering a challenge.

impending complication

Highlights the imminence of a complex situation.

future challenge

Specifically points to a challenge in the time ahead.

developing concern

Suggests a worry that is growing or unfolding.

brewing crisis

Implies a crisis that is gradually intensifying.

looming threat

Highlights a danger that is perceived as imminent and significant.

underlying risk

Focuses on a risk that is not immediately apparent.

conceivable setback

Suggests a possible but not necessarily probable hindrance.

latent risk

Highlights a risk that is currently hidden or dormant.

FAQs

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

Use "potential problem" to describe a situation that might cause difficulties in the future. For example, "The lack of funding is a "potential problem" for the project."

What's a good alternative to "potential problem"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "possible issue", "likely difficulty", or "impending complication".

Is it better to say "potential problem" or "actual problem"?

Use "potential problem" when the issue hasn't happened yet but might, and "actual problem" when the issue is currently happening. They describe different stages of an issue.

What's the difference between "potential problem" and "risk"?

"Risk" generally refers to the probability of something negative occurring, while "potential problem" refers to a situation that could lead to negative consequences. They are closely related but not interchangeable.