root cause of the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "root cause of the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the fundamental reason or underlying issue that leads to a particular problem. Example: "After thorough investigation, we identified the root cause of the problem as a lack of communication between departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The root cause of the problem is press unaccountability.

The Guardian - Opinion

That depends on whether the root cause of the problem has been identified.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You can't get at the root cause of the problem in the public sector.

The New York Times

"It doesn't really get to the root cause of the problem," he said.

The New York Times

Mr. Brodsky, an Ardsley native, argues that overdevelopment in the village is the root cause of the problem.

The New York Times

According to the left leaning think tank, the root cause of the problem is an unaccountable and unreformed civil service.

The Guardian

Osborne says he needed to tackle the root cause of the problem, "a decade of over-spending".

The Guardian

I'm not sure if retailers would get behind that initiative, but it is the root cause of the problem.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These efforts are worthwhile, but they fail to address the root cause of the problem, which is Western immigration restrictions.

The New Yorker

"Typically, we will take out the damaged equipment to try to determine what the root cause of the problem is".

The New York Times

All of which underlines the need for a solution to the root cause of the problem, Europe's sovereign-debt crisis.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "root cause of the problem", ensure you have thoroughly investigated the issue to accurately identify the fundamental reason, rather than addressing superficial symptoms.

Common error

Avoid mistaking the symptoms of a problem for its "root cause". A symptom is a manifestation of the problem, while the "root cause" is the underlying factor that triggers the symptom. Always dig deeper to identify the fundamental issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "root cause of the problem" functions as a noun phrase, identifying the core reason behind an issue. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in pinpointing the fundamental element needing resolution across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

30%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "root cause of the problem" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to identify the fundamental reason behind an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It appears most frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts. Identifying and addressing the "root cause of the problem", rather than superficial symptoms, is crucial for effective and lasting solutions. Alternatives include "underlying reason" and "fundamental reason".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

underlying reason for the problem

Replaces "root cause" with "underlying reason", emphasizing the fundamental nature of the cause.

fundamental reason for the issue

Substitutes "root cause" with "fundamental reason", highlighting the basic and crucial aspect of the cause.

primary driver of the issue

Uses "primary driver" instead of "root cause", suggesting a more active and influential role of the cause.

main reason behind the problem

Replaces "root cause" with "main reason", simplifying the phrasing while retaining the core meaning.

core of the problem

Uses "core" to indicate the central and most important element of the problem.

origin of the problem

Focuses on the starting point or source of the problem.

source of the problem

Highlights the origin from which the problem arises.

genesis of the problem

Implies a more formal or academic context, referring to the initial development of the problem.

deep-seated cause of the issue

Emphasizes that the reason for the problem is profoundly established and may be challenging to address.

true cause of the problem

Adds an element of authenticity, suggesting that superficial explanations may exist, but that the true underlying factor has been discovered.

FAQs

What does "root cause of the problem" mean?

The phrase "root cause of the problem" refers to the fundamental or underlying reason why a problem is occurring. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective problem-solving.

How can I identify the "root cause of the problem"?

Techniques like the '5 Whys' or Ishikawa diagrams (fishbone diagrams) can help you systematically explore potential causes and identify the "root cause of the problem".

What are some alternatives to saying "root cause of the problem"?

You can use alternatives like "underlying reason", "fundamental reason", or "primary driver" depending on the context.

Why is it important to address the "root cause of the problem" instead of just treating the symptoms?

Addressing only the symptoms provides temporary relief, but the problem will likely recur. Targeting the "root cause of the problem" offers a more sustainable and effective solution.