the core problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the core problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the fundamental issue or main difficulty in a situation or discussion. Example: "After analyzing the situation, we realized that the core problem was a lack of communication among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is the core problem".

The New York Times

"But the core problem remains.

The New York Times

That's the core problem.

Harvard Business Review

Is frostbite the core problem anyway?

The New York Times

The core problem is training.

The New York Times

It is the core problem.

The New York Times

The core problem is that minds wander.

The New Yorker

Flank limitations are the core problem.

The Guardian

I knew that was the core problem.

The Guardian

The core problem is leaking water.

The New York Times

(FFC800) The core problem is our London-centric economy.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the core problem" to pinpoint the single, most important issue affecting a situation. It helps focus discussions and solutions.

Common error

Avoid using "the core problem" when multiple, equally important problems exist. Instead, acknowledge the range of issues and address them accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the core problem" functions as a noun phrase, specifically identifying the primary issue or difficulty in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the core problem" is a versatile noun phrase used to pinpoint the most significant issue in various contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its prevalence in news, science, and business contexts underscores its importance in focusing discussions and solutions. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the primary issue, and consider alternatives like "the central issue" or "the fundamental issue" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the central issue

Replaces "core" with "central", emphasizing the issue's importance.

the fundamental issue

Uses "fundamental" instead of "core", highlighting the basic nature of the issue.

the underlying problem

Emphasizes that the problem might not be immediately obvious.

the principal issue

Uses "principal" to denote the main or most important issue.

the key challenge

Substitutes "problem" with "challenge", framing it as an obstacle to overcome.

the main difficulty

Replaces "problem" with "difficulty", focusing on the troublesome aspect.

the primary concern

Shifts the focus to what is most worrisome or significant.

the root cause

Focuses on the origin or source of the problem.

the crux of the matter

Highlights the most crucial point or aspect of the situation.

the heart of the matter

Uses a metaphor to indicate the most important element.

FAQs

How to use "the core problem" in a sentence?

You can use "the core problem" to identify the main issue in a situation. For example, "The core problem is the lack of funding for the project."

What can I say instead of "the core problem"?

You can use alternatives like "the central issue", "the fundamental issue", or "the root cause" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "the core problem" or "the main problem"?

Both "the core problem" and "the main problem" are correct and can often be used interchangeably. "The core problem" emphasizes the most fundamental issue, while "the main problem" simply highlights the most significant one.

What's the difference between "the core problem" and "the underlying problem"?

"The core problem" refers to the most significant issue. "The underlying problem" suggests a less obvious issue that is the true cause of difficulties.