serious problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"serious problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
Example: "The global pandemic is a serious problem that the world must address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Funny gesture, serious problem.

The New Yorker

Scotch, a serious problem.

The New Yorker

This is a serious problem.

Forbes

Corruption is a serious problem.

The Economist

This poses a serious problem.

The New York Times

Is this a serious problem?

The Economist

It's a serious problem there".

The New Yorker

That's a serious problem".

The New York Times

This was as serious problem.

The Guardian

"It's a serious, serious problem".

The New York Times - Science

Poverty is a serious problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "serious problem", ensure that you clearly define the specific issue being addressed and its potential consequences to provide context and clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "serious problem" when the issue is minor or easily resolved. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact when describing genuinely critical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious problem" functions as a noun phrase, where 'serious' modifies the noun 'problem'. It serves to identify and categorize an issue as being significant and potentially impactful, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious problem" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote an issue of considerable importance and potential negative impact. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. Analysis of diverse sources reveals its frequent appearance in news, encyclopedias, and business contexts. When using this phrase, clarity and context are key to conveying the specific nature and severity of the problem effectively. Alternatives such as "grave concern" or "critical issue" can offer nuanced ways to express similar sentiments. While "serious problem" is versatile, overusing it in less critical situations can diminish its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grave concern

Emphasizes the worrying nature of the issue.

critical issue

Highlights the importance and urgency of the matter.

significant challenge

Focuses on the difficulty in overcoming the obstacle.

major difficulty

Underlines the level of trouble or adversity involved.

pressing matter

Highlights the urgency and need for immediate attention.

urgent crisis

Suggests a situation that is immediate and requires immediate attention.

troubling situation

Focuses on the anxiety and worry caused by the circumstances.

worrisome development

Highlights a change or event that is causing concern.

complex dilemma

Highlights the intricate and difficult nature of the decision.

vexing question

Emphasizes the puzzling and irritating nature of the issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "serious problem" to describe an issue that has significant negative consequences. For example: "Climate change is a "serious problem" that requires global cooperation."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "serious problem"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "grave concern", "critical issue", or "significant challenge".

Is it redundant to say "very serious problem"?

While not strictly redundant, "very serious problem" can sometimes be seen as intensifying the phrase unnecessarily. Consider whether "grave concern" or "critical issue" might be a more impactful choice.

How do I identify whether an issue qualifies as a "serious problem"?

An issue can be considered a ""serious problem"" if it has the potential to cause significant harm, disruption, or negative consequences on a large scale or to a vital system.