take on the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"take on the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You would use it when talking about accepting a challenge or difficult task and can be used in the imperative, indicative, or subjunctive moods. Example: "John decided to take on the problem and find a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

More than two dozen other bills are in development to head off future Enrons: some would change the way companies issue stock options, others take on the problem of auditors who act more like lap dogs than watchdogs.

The New York Times

Her new-mum FOMO anthem Life For Me – punctuated at Festival Hall with a rousing "Are there any mums out there?" – with its refrain, "Tell me I'm normal for feeling like this/It's a bit early for a midlife crisis" is a deceptively upbeat 21st century take on "the problem that has no name".

The Guardian

The majority of Ansari's Knoxville material meditated on race in America, especially his own experiences as an Indian actor in Hollywood — getting mistaken for Kumail Nanjiani, his take on The Problem With Apu, having difficulties casting a younger version of himself for Master Of None, and the realities of dating as part of a mixed race couple in the public eye.

Vice

Module 5: The Students Take On the Problem: Although the students had an analogous problem to structure their thinking, they were being asked to think about a novel problem.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Dr. Quintero, one of the first doctors in this country to take on the problem, said he and his colleagues had developed a repair method, "amniopatch," which they had used on about a dozen patients who had membrane ruptures after amniocentesis or other procedures.

The New York Times - Health

The court, however, has so far refused to take on the problem.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

In times such as these it is rare indeed to find one such as yourself willing to take on the problems of America.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think he's the one person of any party who can take on the problems we've got," says Dintersmith of his favorite candidate.

Forbes

What happened to the Democratic Party's willingness to take on the problems facing ordinary people?

The New York Times

Moreover, this small development is also doing its part to take on the problems of economic and social injustice.

The New York Times

Ms. Quan has seemed to take on the problems herself, leaving many out of the picture, including the chief of police.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take on the problem", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is assuming responsibility and what specific problem they are addressing. For clarity, it's often helpful to specify the method or resources they will employ.

Common error

Avoid using "take on the problem" without clearly defining what "the problem" actually is. Ambiguity can lead to confusion about the scope and objectives of the effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take on the problem" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of assuming responsibility or deciding to deal with a particular issue. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly used. The examples in Ludwig showcase its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take on the problem" is a grammatically correct and common phrase used to convey the act of assuming responsibility for addressing an issue. As Ludwig AI validates, it finds frequent use across news and media, scientific and formal contexts. When writing, ensure to clearly define the problem for clarity and consider more formal alternatives like "address the problem" or "resolve the issue" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

address the problem

This alternative offers a direct and straightforward substitution, focusing on the act of dealing with the issue.

tackle the problem

This alternative suggests a more vigorous and proactive approach to the issue.

confront the problem

This alternative emphasizes facing the issue directly, often implying a challenging situation.

deal with the problem

This alternative provides a general way of managing or handling the issue.

handle the problem

This alternative indicates managing the issue, often in a practical manner.

grapple with the problem

This alternative suggests struggling or wrestling with a complex or difficult issue.

attack the problem

This alternative implies a forceful and direct approach to solving the problem.

resolve the problem

This alternative focuses on finding a solution and bringing the issue to an end.

mitigate the problem

This alternative refers to reducing the severity or impact of the issue.

ameliorate the problem

This alternative suggests improving a bad situation to make it more bearable.

FAQs

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

You can use "take on the problem" to describe someone accepting responsibility for solving an issue. For example, "The new CEO decided to "tackle the problem" of low employee morale."

What's a more formal alternative to "take on the problem"?

In a more formal context, consider using phrases like "address the problem" or "resolve the issue". These options often sound more professional and precise.

Is it correct to say "taken on the problem" instead of "take on the problem"?

Yes, "taken on the problem" is the past participle form and is correct when used in perfect tenses. For example, "She has "taken on the problem" with great enthusiasm."

What's the difference between "take on the problem" and "face the problem"?

"Take on the problem" implies accepting responsibility to solve it, while "face the problem" simply means acknowledging and confronting it, not necessarily solving it. "Take on" suggests action; "face" suggests awareness.