predicament at hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "predicament at hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a current difficult situation or challenge that needs to be addressed. Example: "In light of the predicament at hand, we must come together to find a solution that works for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

After a good ten seconds of drunken bystanders (and by that I mean my entire tour group) gasping and pointing at him in sheer horror, he finally registered the predicament at hand.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Obviously I don't know what is in Paula Deen's heart, but that is hardly relevant to her predicament or to the argument at hand.

Huffington Post

Help is at hand.

The New York Times - Tech

Solutions are at hand.

The New York Times - Arts

Armageddon was at hand.

The New Yorker

There are weapons at hand.

The Guardian - Sport

A solution is at hand!

The New York Times

Some lay near at hand.

The Economist

Yet solutions are at hand.

Unicef

Have snacks at hand.

WikiHow

The task at hand.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "predicament at hand" to emphasize the urgency and immediacy of a difficult situation that requires prompt attention and resolution.

Common error

Avoid using "predicament at hand" excessively in very formal or academic writing; opt for more precise and professional language that specifies the nature of the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "predicament at hand" functions as a noun phrase that modifies and describes a current difficult situation. It typically introduces a problem or challenge that requires attention or resolution, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "predicament at hand" effectively conveys a sense of urgency and immediate concern regarding a difficult situation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, although it's more common in news, business and general contexts than in highly formal or academic settings. When writing, remember to consider the register and audience, opting for more precise language if necessary. Alternative phrases such as "current dilemma" or "pressing issue" can offer similar meanings while catering to different tones. Remember Ludwig's observation: While "predicament at hand" underlines immediate difficulty, phrases like "matter at hand" may simply refer to the topic being discussed without highlighting the problem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

current dilemma

Focuses on the immediacy and problematic nature of the situation, similar to emphasizing a current problem.

present crisis

Highlights the urgency and severity of the situation, emphasizing a critical moment.

immediate problem

Emphasizes the need for urgent resolution, focusing on the direct challenge.

pressing issue

Stresses the importance and urgency of the matter requiring attention.

urgent situation

Highlights the need for immediate action due to the critical nature of circumstances.

existing challenge

Refers to an ongoing difficulty that needs to be overcome.

current challenge

Focuses on the existing difficulty, emphasizing a need to overcome an obstacle.

matter at hand

Shifts focus to the specific issue being discussed or dealt with.

issue in question

Highlights a specific subject of debate or problem being examined.

circumstances at present

Describes the current state of affairs, emphasizing the conditions one is facing.

FAQs

How can I use "predicament at hand" in a sentence?

You can use "predicament at hand" to describe a current difficult situation needing immediate attention. For example: "Given the "predicament at hand", immediate action is necessary."

What's a more formal alternative to "predicament at hand"?

For a more formal alternative, consider using "current dilemma" or "pressing issue" depending on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "predicament at hand" suitable for academic writing?

While understandable, "predicament at hand" may be less suitable for academic writing. Consider using more precise language that specifies the nature of the problem, such as "the current challenge".

What's the difference between "predicament at hand" and "matter at hand"?

"Predicament at hand" specifically refers to a difficult or problematic situation needing resolution, while "matter at hand" simply refers to the topic or issue being discussed or dealt with.