problems surface

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problems surface" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that issues or difficulties become apparent or visible over time. Example: "As the project progressed, several problems surfaced that needed to be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"Lockheed doesn't want to have any of these problems surface after the deal closes".

The New York Times

"But if problems surface in 2001, they will clearly be on Michael Bonsignore's watch".

The New York Times

The merger agreement, according to executives and investment bankers who shaped it, gives Dynegy the opportunity to quit the deal without penalty if major new problems surface.

The New York Times

Moreover, even if such places represent socioeconomic extremes, similar problems surface whenever large-scale migration fuses with the more precarious parts of the economy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Japan's new prime minister, Yasuo Fukuda, said in his first policy speech in October that "in promoting structural reform, we have seen disparity and other problems surface".

The Economist

The collapse of MF Global shows how easy it is to obscure risky investments and the pitfalls that can occur when those problems surface.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Then script problems surfaced.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, new problems surfaced.

The New York Times

But from the start, problems surfaced.

The New York Times

The problems surfaced before Trump took office.

The New Yorker

The problems surfaced under Novation's new auditor, Deloitte & Touche.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "problems surface" when you want to emphasize the gradual or unexpected revelation of issues, especially in situations where they were previously hidden or unforeseen.

Common error

While "problems surface" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. More sophisticated alternatives like "difficulties emerge" or "challenges arise" might be more appropriate in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problems surface" functions as a declarative statement, asserting that issues or difficulties are becoming visible or apparent. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from business deals to social issues, indicating its broad applicability. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "problems surface" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to describe the emergence of issues or difficulties. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, indicating its versatility. While alternatives like "issues arise" or "difficulties emerge" may be more appropriate for highly formal writing, "problems surface" serves as a clear and effective way to introduce the revelation of challenges or obstacles. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English, making it a reliable choice for expressing the appearance of problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issues arise

This alternative is more general and emphasizes the occurrence of issues.

difficulties emerge

This alternative emphasizes the gradual appearance of challenges or hardships.

issues become apparent

This alternative focuses on the clarification and visibility of existing issues.

challenges present themselves

This alternative is more formal and suggests an active appearance of challenges.

complications develop

This alternative focuses on the process of problems evolving into a more complex state.

snags occur

This alternative suggests minor difficulties or hitches in a process.

obstacles arise

This alternative specifically refers to impediments or barriers that emerge.

hitches develop

This alternative suggests unexpected minor problems that cause delay or disruption.

setbacks emerge

This alternative emphasizes the appearance of events that delay progress.

difficulties come to light

This alternative highlights the revealing or uncovering of existing difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "problems surface" in a sentence?

You can use "problems surface" to describe the emergence of issues or difficulties. For example, "As the project progressed, several problems surfaced that needed immediate attention."

What can I say instead of "problems surface"?

You can use alternatives like "issues arise", "difficulties emerge", or "challenges present themselves" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "problems surface" or "problems surfacing"?

"Problems surface" is a statement of fact, while "problems surfacing" implies an ongoing process. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the event or the process.

What's the difference between "problems surface" and "issues come to light"?

"Problems surface" emphasizes the emergence of problems, while "issues come to light" highlights the revealing of existing issues that were previously unknown or hidden.