problem lies in the fact that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problem lies in the fact that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a specific issue or challenge that is being discussed or analyzed. Example: "The problem lies in the fact that we lack sufficient funding to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The real problem lies in the fact that satellite measurements of TMT are highly uncertain.

The Guardian

Part of the problem lies in the fact that Philippine law places a very low value on human life.

The Guardian - Opinion

For Downes, the problem lies in the fact that there is not enough leadership in this area.

The Guardian

As with wider society, part of the problem lies in the fact that the key decision-makers remain overwhelmingly white, male and middle-aged.

The Guardian - Film

Some advocates for the deaf say the problem lies in the fact that American Sign Language, called signing, bears no relationship to English in syntax, grammar or spelling.

The New York Times

The problem lies in the fact that the dead-end suspense and pill-popping, knife-wielding darkness of today's TV dramas shove more subtle pilot candidates out of the way.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Investigators studying the failed conductors realized that part of the problem lay in the fact that in the Japanese sample each triplet was made up of two niobium-tin strands and one of copper.

Science Magazine

The intangible problem lies in the fact it is always easier to support policies that apply pain to someone else.

Huffington Post

The problem, says Mansfield, lies in the fact that that touch has become totally sexualised in the western world.

Vice

The problem of recoil lies in the fact that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Vice

The key problem that confronts us lies in the fact that the homicide rate spikes in early 2008, just as our late period begins.

Latin American Economic Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "problem lies in the fact that" to clearly and directly identify the fundamental reason for a challenge, ensuring your explanation is precise and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "problem lies in the fact that" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more direct phrasing like "the reason is" or "the trouble is" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problem lies in the fact that" functions as a connector, specifically introducing the reason or cause behind a problem. It serves to pinpoint the fundamental issue at hand. Ludwig AI confirms this based on the analysis of numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

39%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "problem lies in the fact that" is a commonly used connector that introduces the fundamental reason behind an issue. Ludwig AI analysis reveals its prevalence in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, indicating its suitability for formal and analytical writing. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's important to consider the context and avoid overuse in informal settings. Alternatives such as "the root cause is" or "the key issue stems from" can provide variety while maintaining clarity. Ultimately, using "problem lies in the fact that" effectively involves understanding its purpose and choosing the appropriate register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the underlying reason is

Points to a less obvious, but fundamental cause.

the root cause is

Highlights the fundamental reason behind a problem.

the fundamental flaw is

Highlights a basic defect or weakness.

the central difficulty is

Emphasizes the main challenge or obstacle.

at the heart of the matter is

Indicates the core or essence of the problem.

the core issue is

Focuses on the central difficulty rather than explicitly stating it as a 'problem'.

the major impediment is

Focuses on what is hindering progress or causing difficulty.

the key issue stems from

Indicates that the problem originates from a specific source.

the crux of the matter is

Identifies the most important point of a problem.

the real issue revolves around

Highlights the central point around which the problem is focused.

FAQs

What does "problem lies in the fact that" mean?

The phrase "problem lies in the fact that" is used to indicate the fundamental cause or reason behind a particular issue or difficulty. It highlights what the core of the problem is.

How can I use "problem lies in the fact that" in a sentence?

Use "problem lies in the fact that" to introduce the core reason for a problem. For example, "The "problem lies in the fact that" the project was underfunded from the beginning."

What are some alternatives to "problem lies in the fact that"?

Alternatives include "the issue stems from", "the root cause is", or "the central difficulty is". These phrases offer similar meanings while varying the expression. For example, instead of saying "The "problem lies in the fact that"…", you could say "The "root cause is"…".

When is it appropriate to use "problem lies in the fact that"?

This phrase is suitable for formal writing and discussions where you need to clearly articulate the primary reason for a problem. It's common in academic, professional, and analytical contexts.