take on a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take on a problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of addressing or tackling a specific issue or challenge. Example: "In order to improve our project outcomes, we need to take on the problem of communication breakdowns within the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Only the government, they say, can take on a problem as big as health care.

The New York Times - Health

To take on a problem as massive as email under these circumstances is crazy and risky…attributes that, frankly, it's nice to see.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

As they parted company, Shelly realized that once again she had taken on a problem from someone who would be better off solving it himself.

Science Magazine

This felt dangerous to Gautama, as if they were taking on a problem they could have avoided.

The New Yorker

A FEW start-up Internet companies are taking on a problem that goes back to the earliest days of online commerce -- micropayments.

The New York Times

"It's fair to say we knew we were taking on a problem with no silver bullet," said Representative Paul Kanjorski of Pennsylvania, the chairman of the Financial Services subcommittee that has led reform efforts in the House.

The New York Times

The government has "made a huge effort but the roads they promised aren't there," he says, though he adds that he is optimistic that the PPP contracts may at last get under way next year.At least Mr Santos is taking on a problem neglected by all previous governments over the past two decades.

The Economist

"As in all research, it's a question of taking on a problem and thinking and thinking and thinking about what could be used to solve it," said Windell Oskay, a design engineer at a scientific instruments company, and developer of an edible eye composed of malted milk balls, gelatin capsules and cake decorations.

The New York Times

== * As a side note, I'm personally skeptical of startups that aren't willing to show off at least a little bit of product before launch, especially when they're taking on a problem as big as "redefining enterprise communications".

TechCrunch

If your company has a shot at serious growth, it's probably because you are taking on a problem or an industry in a new way.

Huffington Post

When you take on a painful memory or someone's problems, you're doing yourself, and them, a disservice".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take on a problem", ensure the context clearly indicates the entity assuming responsibility for addressing the problem.

Common error

Avoid using "take on a problem" when it's unclear who will be responsible for resolving the issue. Clearly define the responsible party to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take on a problem" functions as a verb phrase, where "take on" acts as a phrasal verb meaning to accept or assume responsibility, and "a problem" is the object of the verb. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take on a problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to express accepting responsibility for addressing a challenging situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific domains. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it emphasizes a proactive approach to resolving difficulties. Alternatives like "address a problem" or "tackle a problem" can be used for similar meanings. When using the phrase, it is important to ensure clarity regarding who is assuming responsibility for resolving the issue. Finally, in most contexts "deal with a problem" can be used instead.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

address a problem

Focuses on directly dealing with an issue, emphasizing action.

tackle a problem

Implies actively engaging with and attempting to resolve a difficulty.

confront a problem

Stresses the act of facing a challenge directly.

handle a problem

Emphasizes managing and dealing with a difficult situation.

deal with a problem

Indicates managing or handling a difficult situation.

grapple with a problem

Suggests a struggle while trying to understand or solve an issue.

face a challenge

Highlights acknowledging and preparing to manage a difficult task.

resolve a problem

Highlights the aim of finding a solution to an issue.

overcome a problem

Focuses on successfully defeating a challenge.

undertake a task

Implies committing to a task that requires problem-solving.

FAQs

How can I use "take on a problem" in a sentence?

You can use "take on a problem" to indicate accepting responsibility for solving a particular issue. For example, "The new manager decided to "address the issue" of low employee morale".

What's a more formal way to say "take on a problem"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "address a challenge" or "tackle an issue" to convey a similar meaning with a slightly elevated tone.

Is it better to "take on a problem" or "solve a problem"?

"Take on a problem" implies accepting the responsibility to deal with it, while "solve a problem" focuses on finding a solution. The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize responsibility or resolution. You can use alternatives like "resolve a problem".

What does it mean to "take on a problem"?

To "take on a problem" means to accept responsibility for dealing with a difficult situation and to begin to try to solve it. It suggests a willingness to "confront the difficulty" and find a solution.