pressing problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"pressing problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a problem that needs to be promptly addressed because of its importance or urgency. For example, "The climate crisis is a pressing problem that demands immediate action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bush had inherited a pressing problem.

The New Yorker

Shaun's other pressing problem is his children.

The Guardian - Music

Another pressing problem lies in public perception.

The Washington Post

"I designed the Cardiopad to resolve a pressing problem.

The Guardian

Even in the towns, power supply is a pressing problem.

The New York Times

This question addresses the pressing problem of prioritisation head-on.

The Guardian

This was "a real pressing problem", he said.

The Guardian

Which brings us to a sartorially pressing problem.

The Guardian - Music

"It's an increasing, growing and pressing problem everywhere, including Europe.

The Guardian

— Patrick Farrell The Economist: No, not global warming — global worming, that's the pressing problem.

The New York Times

But LG - like arch-rival Samsung - faces a pressing problem.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pressing problem", ensure the context clearly indicates why the problem is urgent and requires immediate attention. Avoid vague statements; provide specific details about the problem's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "pressing problem" when the issue is merely inconvenient or mildly concerning. Reserve this phrase for situations with significant consequences and a genuine need for immediate action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pressing problem" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'pressing' modifies 'problem' to emphasize its urgency and importance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pressing problem" is a widely used and grammatically sound way to describe an urgent and significant issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's common across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. When using this phrase, be specific about why the problem is urgent and avoid overstating the situation. Alternatives like "urgent issue" or "critical challenge" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Remember to reserve "pressing problem" for situations that truly demand immediate attention and have potentially significant consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

urgent issue

Replaces 'pressing' with 'urgent', emphasizing the need for immediate action.

critical challenge

Substitutes 'problem' with 'challenge', highlighting the difficulty and importance of the situation.

serious concern

Replaces 'pressing problem' with 'serious concern', indicating a matter of significant worry.

acute crisis

Uses 'acute crisis' instead of "pressing problem", emphasizing the severity and immediacy of the situation.

burning question

Replaces 'pressing problem' with 'burning question', focusing on a problem that requires immediate answers or solutions.

immediate priority

Replaces "pressing problem" with 'immediate priority', shifting the focus to what needs the most urgent attention.

dire situation

Replaces "pressing problem" with 'dire situation', highlighting the severity and potential consequences of the problem.

troubling matter

Replaces 'pressing problem' with 'troubling matter', suggesting a problem that causes distress or worry.

significant difficulty

Replaces "pressing problem" with 'significant difficulty', emphasizing the level of challenge the problem presents.

exigent circumstance

Uses 'exigent circumstance' instead of "pressing problem", indicating a situation that demands immediate attention and action.

FAQs

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

You can use "pressing problem" to describe an urgent and important issue. For example, "Climate change is a "pressing problem" that requires global cooperation".

What are some alternatives to "pressing problem"?

Alternatives include "urgent issue", "critical challenge", or "serious concern". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "pressing problem" in formal writing?

Yes, "pressing problem" is suitable for formal writing, especially when addressing urgent and important issues. However, ensure the tone and context are appropriate for the audience.

What makes a problem "pressing"?

A problem is considered "pressing" when it demands immediate attention due to its potential consequences or impact. It implies a sense of urgency and the need for prompt action.