spate of problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spate of problems" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden or large number of issues occurring in a short period of time. Example: "The company faced a spate of problems after the software update, leading to numerous customer complaints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

More than a dozen other airlines are operating Dreamliners, and all have expressed confidence in the aircraft, despite the spate of problems.

The New York Times

Harder hit than most publishers who have struggled with falling print revenue, Reader's Digest emerged from bankruptcy last year to a spate of problems.

The New York Times

The sour results are the most recent in a spate of problems at Interpublic, which works for marketers like Coca-Cola, General Motors, Samsung and Unilever.

The New York Times

Ms. Kaiser said that Baltimore's strong leadership team, including Mr. Sanders, would see the company through its current spate of problems.

The New York Times

Mrs. Whitman acted after a spate of problems came to light in recent weeks, adding to Greystone's legacy as a sprawling, unwieldy center.

The New York Times

Although Fisker successfully brought its stylish Karma sedan to market in late 2011, the company has had a spate of problems in recent months, including a recall of more than 2,000 cars to replace a cooling fan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

But critics say it could lead to a housing bubble and a spate of problem loans on which the government could be left to make good.

The New York Times

That may take time to achieve, given the spate of smaller problems.

The New York Times

Philip Pugliese, the bicycle coordinator there, said in an interview that the city had experienced a spate of docking problems.

The New York Times

Jackson said that the spate of legal problems involving Binghamton players should not factor into Broadus's future.

The New York Times - Sports

Residents expressed frustration at the incident, which follows a spate of electrical problems that have plagued the area since January.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spate of problems", ensure the context clearly indicates a sudden and unexpected occurrence of multiple issues. Avoid using it for chronic or ongoing difficulties.

Common error

Avoid using "spate of problems" when a simpler phrase like "several issues" or "some difficulties" would suffice. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a sudden and unusual increase in problems, not just the presence of routine challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spate of problems" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a period marked by a sudden increase in difficulties or issues, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spate of problems" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe a sudden occurrence of multiple issues, according to Ludwig AI. While not overly frequent, it appears commonly in news and media contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for formal and informal communication, but you may prefer alternatives like "series of issues" or "wave of difficulties" depending on the specific context. When using this phrase, make sure to use it to express something more than just issues but a sudden unusual quantity of them.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

series of issues

Focuses on the sequential nature of the problems, less emphasis on suddenness.

wave of difficulties

Emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the problems, suggesting a large number.

rash of incidents

Highlights the sudden and often unpleasant nature of the events, similar to an outbreak.

outbreak of issues

Implies a sudden and widespread occurrence, often used in medical or technical contexts.

cluster of difficulties

Suggests a grouping or concentration of problems occurring together.

stream of setbacks

Conveys a continuous flow of negative events or obstacles.

succession of troubles

Highlights the sequential nature of problems, emphasizing one after another.

sequence of complications

Focuses on the intricate and complex nature of the problems.

torrent of misfortunes

Implies a heavy and overwhelming flow of unfortunate events.

barrage of crises

Emphasizes the intensity and rapid succession of critical problems.

FAQs

How can I use "spate of problems" in a sentence?

You can use "spate of problems" to describe a sudden increase in difficulties. For example: "The project experienced a "spate of problems" during the final stages."

What phrases are similar to "spate of problems"?

Similar phrases include "series of issues", "wave of difficulties", or "rash of incidents" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "spate of problems" in formal writing?

Yes, "spate of problems" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in news reports or analytical contexts. However, consider alternatives like "series of issues" for a more neutral tone in some situations.

What's the difference between "spate of problems" and "succession of problems"?

"Spate of problems" emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of the problems, while "succession of problems" focuses on the sequential occurrence. A "spate of problems" implies a burst of issues, whereas a "succession of problems" suggests they occurred one after another.