rectify problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rectify problems" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when discussing how to address problems, for example: "We must work together to rectify the current problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

You can rectify problems due to mechanical failure; but that certainly wasn't possible there.

Independent

The bank is also trying to rectify problems in its Indonesian and Korean operations.

The Guardian - Business

"In the past, we have been able to rectify problems by repairing existing cables, or replacing sections," Mr. Bonomo said.

The New York Times

If inspections are supposed to force companies to rectify problems and avoid future ones, that 2002 inspection was a failure.

The New York Times

"Companies are supposed to have policies to recognize and rectify problems with human rights in their supply chain," she said.

The New York Times

The regulatory failure belonged mainly to state occupational health officials who were deputized by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration to do inspections and rectify problems.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

It has also rectified problems, of water-logging and salination, caused by canals.

The Economist

Some of the money seems likely to go toward rectifying problems that predate the spill, like shrinking wetlands.

The New York Times

Among other difficulties that would await Cohen, the Federal Transit Administration has imposed financial restrictions on Metro until the agency rectifies problems involving its handling of federal grants.

The Washington Post

The provincial Market Supervision Bureau also said it would launch a special campaign aimed at rectifying problems in the automobile field, according to a local Shaanxi news website.

The Washington Post

The jail has 30 days to come up with a plan to rectify the problems.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rectify problems", ensure the context clearly indicates that you are addressing existing issues and aiming to correct them, not just manage or mitigate them. This phrase is best used when the goal is to restore something to a correct or improved state.

Common error

While "rectify problems" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversations. In informal settings, consider using alternatives like "fix problems" or "sort things out" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rectify problems" serves as a verb phrase, indicating the action of correcting or setting right issues. This is a common construction used to describe the process of fixing something that is wrong or deficient. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rectify problems" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe the act of correcting issues. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for professional communication, reports, and discussions, though simpler alternatives may be preferred in informal contexts. This phrase is often found in news media, scientific papers, and academic writing, reflecting its role in formal discourse. Remember to consider your audience and the desired level of formality when deciding whether to use "rectify problems" or a more casual substitute.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Resolve issues

Focuses on finding a solution to issues, without necessarily implying a correction of something wrong.

Remedy situations

Suggests improving a condition, particularly something undesirable, but less formal than "rectify".

Correct errors

Specifically targets errors, whereas "rectify problems" is broader and includes any kind of issue.

Set right troubles

An older, more formal way to express correcting problems or wrongs.

Fix difficulties

Emphasizes repairing something that is broken or not functioning correctly, applicable more to tangible issues.

Improve matters

Offers a general improvement to circumstances, rather than a specific correction.

Mitigate challenges

Focuses on lessening the negative impact of challenges, not necessarily fixing them entirely.

Straighten out complications

Implies addressing intricate or confusing issues, making them more straightforward.

Ameliorate predicaments

Suggests making a bad situation better, though the situation may persist.

Alleviate concerns

Focuses on easing worry or stress related to the problem, rather than solving the problem itself.

FAQs

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

You can use "rectify problems" when you want to express that you are correcting or setting right certain issues. For example, "The company is taking steps to "rectify problems" with its customer service department".

What are some alternatives to "rectify problems"?

Some alternatives to "rectify problems" include "resolve issues", "correct errors", or "fix difficulties". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

Which is more appropriate: "rectify problems" or "address problems"?

"Rectify problems" implies correcting something that is wrong, while "address problems" suggests dealing with issues, which may not necessarily involve fixing something. Use "rectify" when aiming to correct a specific fault.

What is the difference between "rectify problems" and "remedy problems"?

"Rectify problems" and "remedy problems" are very similar. "Rectify" often suggests a complete correction, while "remedy" might imply providing relief or improvement without necessarily fixing the problem entirely.