sensitive problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sensitive problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an issue that requires careful handling due to its delicate nature or potential emotional impact. Example: "The team is currently addressing a sensitive problem regarding employee morale that needs to be approached with caution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I think for police departments this is an incredibly sensitive problem," the chief said.

The New York Times

Unemployment in France remains high at 9.2 percent, while joblessness among youth, a particularly sensitive problem, is 22.8 percent.

The New York Times

Critics accuse Obama of dumping a sensitive problem in the middle of nowhere rather than accepting that the US should take responsibility for prisoners it has abused.

The Guardian

South Africa's government is grappling with the same, extremely sensitive, problem of how, and whether, to marry traditional healing with western medicine in its new network of primary health care.

The Economist

At the same time, by making it cheaper for China to import oil, iron ore and other goods, a rise in the renminbi is one way of combating inflation, which has become an increasingly worrisome and politically sensitive problem in China.

The New York Times

M'Hallah and Alkhabbaz (2013) apply a simple Operations Research tools to a common and sensitive problem.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

There's a risk in addressing voter fraud and other "sensitive" problems more directly.

The Guardian

Toward the end of 2005, however, both governments called for resolutions of sensitive problems and promised to work on their differences.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A United States marine has been arrested and accused of attempted rape in a case that has again raised the sensitive problems of the American military presence on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, police officials said today.

The New York Times

Though the distinctions are still blurred, codes of conduct are starting to emerge under three headings: (1) artworks acquired through recent or continuing thefts, (2) artworks acquired through war and (3) artworks acquired through colonial exploitation.However they are acquired, human remains and spiritual or sacred objects make for particularly sensitive problems.

The Economist

Various environmentally sensitive problems need to be avoided and solved at the early stage of railway survey and design.

Principles of Railway Location and Design

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sensitive problem" when you want to highlight the need for careful and tactful handling of a difficult situation. Avoid it if a more direct or blunt description is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the term "sensitive problem" to describe every minor issue. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make you seem overly cautious or avoidant. Be specific when possible to provide clarity and direction for resolution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sensitive problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "sensitive" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "problem". It identifies a specific type of issue requiring careful handling. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sensitive problem" is a commonly used phrase to denote an issue requiring careful handling due to its potential for causing emotional distress or ethical concerns. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. When using this phrase, it's essential to prioritize empathy and respect in your communication, while also avoiding overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives such as "delicate issue", "tricky situation" or "thorny issue" may be more appropriate depending on the context. By understanding the nuances of "sensitive problem" and its alternatives, you can communicate more effectively and thoughtfully in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delicate issue

Emphasizes the need for careful handling due to potential fragility or volatility. It's a common alternative that focuses on the tact required.

tricky situation

Highlights the complexity and potential for negative outcomes if not managed properly. It focuses on the strategic considerations.

thorny issue

Suggests a problem that is difficult to resolve due to its complexity and potential for conflict. It emphasizes the challenging nature.

awkward matter

Implies a problem that may cause discomfort or embarrassment. It centers on the social dynamics and potential unease.

challenging concern

Highlights the difficulty in addressing the problem and the need for significant effort. It focuses on the effort needed for resolution.

contentious subject

Indicates a problem likely to cause disagreement or debate. It focuses on the divisiveness of the issue.

precarious predicament

Implies a situation that is unstable and could easily lead to negative consequences. It emphasizes the risk involved.

difficult dilemma

Highlights the presence of a hard choice between two or more options. It focuses on the decision-making process.

complex complication

Emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the problem. It focuses on the level of detail and interconnectedness.

vexing question

Suggests a problem that is annoying or frustrating due to its difficulty or lack of clear solution. It focuses on the emotional impact of the problem.

FAQs

What does "sensitive problem" mean?

A "sensitive problem" is an issue that requires careful handling due to its potential to cause emotional distress, conflict, or ethical concerns. It often involves privacy, confidentiality, or deeply held beliefs.

When is it appropriate to use the term "sensitive problem"?

Use "sensitive problem" when you want to highlight the need for caution and tact in addressing an issue. It's suitable when dealing with topics that could easily offend or upset others, or when confidentiality is paramount.

What are some alternatives to "sensitive problem"?

Depending on the specific context, alternatives to "sensitive problem" include "delicate issue", "tricky situation", "thorny issue", or "awkward matter". Choose the alternative that best captures the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do you approach a "sensitive problem" effectively?

Approaching a "sensitive problem" requires empathy, respect, and careful planning. Start by acknowledging the potential impact on those involved, maintain confidentiality, and communicate with tact and transparency. Seek input from relevant stakeholders to ensure a fair and comprehensive resolution.