such a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a problem" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to emphasize an issue or difficulty. For example, "He was so angry about losing the game that it created such a problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Have you experienced such a problem?

The New York Times

"Such a problem area!" he said.

The New Yorker

No wonder recidivism is such a problem".

The New York Times

Perhaps this isn't such a problem.

The Guardian

Transport is such a problem.

The Guardian

Is it really such a problem?

The Guardian - Sport

Why did Wordsworth have such a problem?

The Guardian - Books

Right now there's such a problem.

The Guardian

"We have such a problem with our bodies".

The New York Times

But the noise was not such a problem.

The New York Times - Travel

But why has it only become such a problem now?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "such a problem", ensure the context clearly establishes what the problem is. For instance, "The lack of funding is such a problem that the project is at risk."

Common error

While "such a problem" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal settings. Simpler phrasing might be more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "Dealing with this issue is such a problem", consider "This issue is really difficult to deal with."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a problem" functions as a noun phrase that emphasizes the degree or extent of a particular difficulty. Examples from Ludwig indicate its use in various contexts to highlight the significance of an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "such a problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to emphasize the significance of an issue. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, making it a versatile phrase for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases include "a significant issue" and "a major difficulty", offering alternative ways to express a similar sentiment. When using "such a problem", ensure the context clearly identifies the specific issue being addressed to avoid ambiguity. This phrase serves to highlight the importance of a problem, prompting attention and potentially, action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant issue

This alternative replaces "problem" with "issue" and adds the adjective "significant" to emphasize the importance of the problem.

a major difficulty

This phrase uses "difficulty" as a synonym for "problem" and "major" to highlight the severity.

a considerable challenge

Replacing "problem" with "challenge" reframes the situation as something to be overcome, while "considerable" indicates its size.

a serious concern

This alternative shifts the focus to the worrying aspect of the problem, using "concern" and "serious" to convey this.

a troublesome matter

"Troublesome matter" is a more formal and slightly less common way to describe a problem.

a delicate situation

This suggests that the problem requires careful handling, emphasizing the sensitivity of the issue.

a complex issue

This focuses on the intricate nature of the problem, highlighting its multifaceted aspects.

a pressing matter

This highlights the urgency of the problem, emphasizing that it needs immediate attention.

a tough predicament

This alternative frames the problem as a difficult or unenviable situation.

a sticky situation

This is an informal way to describe a problem that is awkward or difficult to resolve.

FAQs

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

You can use "such a problem" to emphasize the significance or severity of an issue. For instance, "The constant delays became "such a problem" that we had to reconsider the project timeline."

What phrases are similar to "such a problem"?

Alternatives include "a significant issue", "a major difficulty", or "a serious concern", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "such a problem" or "a problem"?

The choice depends on the context. "Such a problem" emphasizes the extent or impact of the problem, while "a problem" is a more general statement. For example, "Lateness was a problem" simply acknowledges the issue, whereas "Lateness was "such a problem"" suggests it caused significant disruption.

What makes "such a problem" different from "that problem"?

"That problem" refers to a specific, already identified problem. "Such a problem" emphasizes the nature, scale, or consequences of the problem. "Finding a solution to that problem is crucial" points to a particular issue, while "Finding solutions to "such a problem" is a constant challenge" highlights the type or magnitude of the issue.