stubborn problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"stubborn problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe a problem that is particularly difficult or takes an especially long time to solve. For example, "We have been trying for weeks to solve this stubborn problem, but have made very little progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Underemployment is another stubborn problem.

The New York Times

The police report a stubborn problem with illegal OxyContin use.

The New York Times

The manufacturer's most stubborn problem has been with peanuts.

The New Yorker

Gangs were the city's biggest and most stubborn problem, a safety and public-relations nightmare.

The New York Times

The industry sees it as a fix to a stubborn problem: job vacancies, particularly for engineers.

The New York Times

It could also illustrate a stubborn problem that's been holding augmented reality back.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

But stubborn problems remain.

The New York Times

TOMORROW: Stubborn problems.

The New York Times

TODAY -- Stubborn problems.

The New York Times

MONDAY -- Stubborn problems.

The New York Times

In some quarters at least, the intervention is being embraced as a fresh approach to stubborn problems.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "stubborn problem", provide context to highlight why the problem is proving difficult to resolve. For instance, mention specific obstacles or contributing factors.

Common error

Avoid using "stubborn problem" as a generic descriptor. Instead, elaborate on the specific nature of the problem and why it's resistant to solutions. Without context, the phrase can sound vague and uninformative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stubborn problem" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "stubborn" modifies the noun "problem". It's used to characterize a particular issue as being difficult to resolve or overcome. Ludwig AI validates this usage as grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stubborn problem" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an issue that is difficult to resolve. According to Ludwig AI, it is valid and usable in English writing. Its prevalence across various domains like news, science, and formal business indicates its versatility. To enhance clarity, it's best practice to provide specific context when using this phrase. While alternatives like "intractable issue" or "persistent difficulty" exist, "stubborn problem" effectively conveys the resistance to easy solutions, it's important to avoid overuse without context. As "stubborn problem" is a "Very common" phrase, always consider what level of details, examples, or context should be given together.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intractable issue

Focuses on the difficulty of managing or resolving the problem.

persistent difficulty

Emphasizes the continuing nature of the challenge.

ongoing struggle

Highlights the continuous effort required to deal with the problem.

unyielding challenge

Stresses the resistance to change or improvement.

chronic issue

Indicates the long-lasting nature of the problem.

deep-seated problem

Suggests the problem is fundamental and difficult to address.

formidable obstacle

Highlights the significant difficulty posed by the problem.

challenging situation

Broadly refers to a difficult set of circumstances.

tough nut to crack

Idiomatic expression for a problem that is hard to solve.

vexing question

Implies a problem that causes annoyance and perplexity.

FAQs

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

You can use "stubborn problem" to describe issues that are difficult to resolve despite repeated efforts. For instance, "Homelessness remains a "stubborn problem" in many major cities."

What are some alternatives to "stubborn problem"?

Alternatives to "stubborn problem" include "persistent difficulty", "intractable issue", or "unyielding challenge", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "stubborn problem" or "persistent problem"?

Both "stubborn problem" and "persistent problem" are correct, but "stubborn" suggests a resistance to being solved, while "persistent" simply indicates that the problem continues to exist.

What makes a problem a "stubborn problem"?

A "stubborn problem" is one that resists easy solutions, often due to deeply ingrained factors or complex interdependencies. It requires sustained effort and innovative approaches to overcome.