problems that befall

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problems that befall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe issues or difficulties that occur unexpectedly or as a consequence of certain circumstances. Example: "We must find solutions to the problems that befall our community during times of crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Miracle on 34th Street," as those who have left the television on around Christmas may remember, is a movie about the legal problems that befall a man who claims to be an idol.

The New Yorker

He wanted her with him at all times, and having her on stage solved many of the problems that befall marriages in the world of popular music.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its policy would only cover the usual problems that befall travellers, such as sickness, theft or being involved in a road accident.

The Guardian - Travel

They might suffer from hangovers, insomnia or heartburn, but they don't experience the same life-disrupting problems that befall other addicts.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The answer to this question might be derived from an analysis of a number of problems that befell the world media.

The Guardian - Opinion

John Johnson is a personality psychologist at Pennsylvania State University who says that while the MBTI does fail to fully convey the full complexity of, say, the introversion/extroversion spectrum, that's a problem that befalls plenty of personality evaluations that are far less scrutinized.

Vice

These are some of the more common problems that can befall aging or mistreated feet.

The New York Times - Health

Howard Schechter, another Manhattan real estate lawyer, said there are a number of potential problems that can befall a divorcing couple who own real estate.

The New York Times

More seriously, management experts say, JDN's travails offer a case study of the problems that can befall a public company that continues to operate like a private one.

The New York Times

A leader is just a homogenous part of the group, someone who understands the dynamics and helps them solve problems that may befall upon that group.

Huffington Post

"Motion picture and TV companies are very determined to create an Internet distribution ecosystem that avoids the problems that have befallen the music industry," said Warren Lieberfarb, former president of Warner Home Video and now an industry consultant.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "problems that befall" to describe unexpected or unfortunate issues, particularly when emphasizing the passive recipient of the problem.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "problems that befall" can sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "issues that come up" or "difficulties we face" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problems that befall" functions as a noun phrase, where "problems" is the noun and "that befall" acts as a relative clause modifying the noun. The phrase describes specific issues or difficulties that unexpectedly affect something or someone. This is validated by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "problems that befall" is a grammatically correct and somewhat formal way to describe issues that unexpectedly affect someone or something. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as usable and understandable across different contexts, but it appears more frequently in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing than in casual conversation. For more relaxed settings, simpler terms may be more suitable. The phrase serves to emphasize misfortune and is often found in informative contexts to raise awareness of encountered difficulties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issues that arise

This alternative uses more common and neutral terms to describe the occurrence of difficulties.

difficulties that occur

This phrase replaces "befall" with the more straightforward "occur", simplifying the language.

challenges that emerge

This option emphasizes the sense of something new coming into existence as a difficulty.

misfortunes that strike

This alternative evokes a stronger sense of sudden and negative impact.

setbacks that happen

This phrase is more casual and focuses on the idea of temporary impediments.

crises that unfold

This option suggests a gradual revelation of problems, often on a larger scale.

adversities that present themselves

This phrase gives a more formal and personified sense of challenges.

hardships that materialize

This alternative stresses the concrete appearance or realization of difficulties.

tribulations that ensue

This option suggests that the problems are a consequence of something else.

calamities that descend

This alternative evokes a sense of overpowering and overwhelming disaster.

FAQs

How can I use "problems that befall" in a sentence?

You can use "problems that befall" to describe unfortunate or unexpected issues that affect someone or something. For example: "These are some of the more common "problems that can befall" aging or mistreated feet."

What are some alternatives to "problems that befall"?

Alternatives include "issues that arise", "difficulties that occur", or "challenges that emerge", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is "problems that befall" formal or informal?

"Problems that befall" leans toward the formal side, suggesting serious or significant issues. For less formal situations, consider using simpler phrases like "issues that happen".

How does "problems that befall" differ from "challenges that are faced"?

"Problems that befall" emphasizes the unexpected and unfortunate nature of the issues, while "challenges that are faced" suggests a more proactive and intentional engagement with difficulties.