that is the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"that is the problem" is a grammatically correct expression that can be used in written and spoken English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a difficulty or a difficulty that someone is having with something. For example: "I've been trying to fix my computer all morning, but I can't figure out what's wrong - that is the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With biodegradable objects, it is disposal that is the problem.

The New York Times

It is public credulity that is the problem, not scepticism.

Independent

It is not the brand that is the problem.

The New York Times

Don't think it's our confidence that is the problem.

The New York Times

"[But] it's the uncertainty that is the problem.

Independent

It is the Bush administration that is the problem.

The Economist

It is that seventh day that is the problem.

The New York Times

"It is the residue that is the problem.

The Guardian

"It is the rhetoric that is the problem," he said.

The Guardian

No-one - that is the problem.

BBC

That is the problem".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that is the problem" to clearly and concisely identify the central issue in a discussion or analysis. It provides a direct way to focus attention on what needs to be addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "that is the problem" as a simplistic conclusion to complex arguments. Ensure you've adequately explained the context and nuances before stating the problem directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is the problem" serves as a declarative statement, functioning primarily to identify or highlight a specific issue or difficulty that has been previously discussed or implied. Ludwig examples show its use in clarifying the core of a challenge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is the problem" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to identify a key issue or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's important to ensure sufficient context is provided before using the phrase to avoid oversimplifying complex arguments. Consider alternatives like "that's the challenge" or "that's the difficulty" to add nuance where necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's the challenge

Replaces "problem" with "challenge", framing the issue as something to be overcome.

that's the difficulty

Substitutes "problem" with "difficulty", emphasizing the troublesome aspect.

that's the key issue

Highlights the identified problem as the most important point of concern.

that's where the trouble lies

Uses a more figurative expression to point out the source of difficulty.

that's the crux of the matter

Emphasizes that the identified problem is the central point of the situation.

the heart of the matter is that

Emphasizes the core issue in a more elaborate way.

that's what's causing the issue

Focuses on the problem as the direct cause of a specific issue.

the fundamental flaw is

Identifies the problem as a basic defect or weakness.

the root cause is

Points to the underlying cause of the difficulties.

the main obstacle is

Presents the problem as a barrier preventing progress.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "that is the problem"?

You can use alternatives such as "that's the challenge", "that's the difficulty", or "that's the key issue" depending on the context.

Is "that is the problem" formal or informal?

The phrase "that is the problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might opt for a more sophisticated phrasing.

What's the difference between "that is the problem" and "that's a problem"?

"That is the problem" identifies a specific, pre-defined issue, while "that's a problem" introduces a new issue or expresses concern about something.

How to use "that is the problem" effectively in a sentence?

Use "that is the problem" after you've provided enough context to make the issue clear to your audience. For instance, "We lack the necessary resources; "that is the problem"".