profound problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "profound problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an issue or situation that is very serious and difficult to understand or solve. For example: "Deforestation is a profound problem that needs to be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

We have a profound problem on our hands.

The Guardian - Business

The more profound problem is really about demographics.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There was a profound problem of spirit in the desire to win," he said.

The New Yorker

Most of the uninsured described their lack of coverage as a profound problem.

The New York Times - Health

"It's a profound problem," said the lawyer, Paul M. Sherman, with the Institute for Justice.

The New York Times

There is also a profound problem that is not subtle at all.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Of course South Africa has profound problems.

The New York Times

Consider then the profound problems facing macroeconomic policymakers in Africa.

The Economist

And the cause can be traced, for the most part, to two profound problems.

The New York Times

But to a large extent it has only catalyzed an awareness of more profound problems".

The New York Times

The rest of the prison system is also experiencing profound problems.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "profound problem" when you want to emphasize the deep-rooted and significant nature of an issue. It's suitable for formal and serious contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "profound problem" in everyday conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly dramatic or pretentious when a simpler term would suffice. Reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant such emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "profound problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "profound" modifies the noun "problem". It typically serves to emphasize the significance and depth of the problem being discussed. Ludwig examples show it's used to highlight issues in diverse fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "profound problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a deeply significant issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights the seriousness and complexity of a problem, urging careful consideration. Predominantly used in News & Media and Science contexts, it maintains a mostly formal tone. Related phrases like "deep-seated issue" or "significant challenge" can offer nuanced alternatives. Remember to reserve "profound problem" for situations that genuinely warrant such emphasis, avoiding overuse in casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deep-seated issue

Emphasizes the entrenched and fundamental nature of the problem.

significant challenge

Highlights the difficulty and importance of the problem.

serious dilemma

Focuses on the problematic and complex nature of the situation.

complex difficulty

Stresses the intricate and challenging aspects of the problem.

grave concern

Indicates the seriousness and potential danger associated with the problem.

fundamental flaw

Points to a basic and critical defect underlying the problem.

critical issue

Emphasizes the importance and urgency of addressing the problem.

substantial obstacle

Highlights the impediment and magnitude of the problem.

major predicament

Focuses on the troublesome and difficult situation caused by the problem.

thorny question

Highlights the complexity and sensitivity of the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "profound problem" to describe a serious and deeply rooted issue. For example, "Climate change represents a "profound problem" for future generations".

What are some synonyms for "profound problem"?

Alternatives include "deep-seated issue", "significant challenge", or "serious dilemma". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "profound problem" or "serious problem"?

"Profound problem" suggests a deeper, more fundamental issue than "serious problem". Use "profound" when the problem's roots are complex and its implications far-reaching.

What's the difference between a "profound problem" and a "complex problem"?

A "complex problem" is intricate and multifaceted, while a "profound problem" is deep-seated and fundamentally significant. A problem can be both complex and profound, but they emphasize different aspects.