the core problem is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the core problem is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to identify or emphasize the main issue or challenge in a discussion or analysis. Example: "In our analysis of the project, the core problem is a lack of communication among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The core problem is training.

The New York Times

The core problem is that minds wander.

The New Yorker

The core problem is leaking water.

The New York Times

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

The Guardian

The core problem is we don't "do" strategy any longer, only tactics.

The Guardian

The core problem is that Pakistan is no longer really a country, if it ever was.

The New Yorker

Perversely, for this we should be thankful; the core problem is strategic, not institutional.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Inevitably, the core problem is that you're trying to see too many things.

The New York Times - Tech

But all agree the core problem is the lack of acknowledgment that an offense has even been committed.

The Guardian

The core problem is commodification, the fragmentation of the care relationship into standardised tasks that objectify the client.

The Guardian

She argued that the "core problem is not Europe but bad discipline in budgets among some member states".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the core problem is", ensure that the statement following the phrase is concise and accurately reflects the main challenge or issue.

Common error

Avoid using "the core problem is" when the issue is actually a symptom or a superficial aspect of a larger, more complex problem. Ensure you're addressing the root cause, not just a manifestation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the core problem is" serves to identify and introduce the central or most significant issue being discussed. It highlights the fundamental challenge or difficulty at hand, setting the stage for further analysis or problem-solving. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a direct way to emphasize the main issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the core problem is" is a versatile phrase used to pinpoint the most significant issue or challenge in a variety of contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news and media, this phrase serves to clarify discussions and direct attention to the most fundamental aspects of a problem. Alternatives like "the central issue is" or "the main difficulty is" can be used for subtle variations in emphasis, but the primary function remains consistent: highlighting the heart of the matter. When using this phrase, ensure you're truly identifying the root cause, and not just a symptom.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the central issue is

Replaces 'core problem' with 'central issue', focusing on the primary matter.

the main difficulty is

Substitutes 'core problem' with 'main difficulty', emphasizing the principal challenge.

the key challenge is

Uses 'key challenge' instead of 'core problem', stressing the most important obstacle.

the primary concern is

Replaces 'core problem' with 'primary concern', highlighting the foremost worry.

the fundamental issue is

Substitutes 'core problem' with 'fundamental issue', emphasizing the basic aspect.

the root cause is

Focuses on the origin of the problem, indicating the fundamental reason for the issue.

the underlying problem is

Highlights the hidden or less obvious nature of the central problem.

the essence of the problem is

Emphasizes the most important aspect of the problem, its fundamental nature.

what it boils down to is

Expresses that the problem ultimately simplifies to a specific issue.

at the heart of the matter is

Highlights the most important or crucial aspect of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "the core problem is" in a sentence?

Use "the core problem is" to introduce the central issue or challenge you want to address. For example, "The core problem is the lack of funding for research".

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

You can use alternatives like "the central issue is", "the main difficulty is", or "the key challenge is" depending on the context.

Is "the core problem is" formal or informal?

The phrase "the core problem is" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "the core problem is" and "the main problem is"?

While both phrases are similar, "the core problem is" suggests a deeper, more fundamental issue, whereas "the main problem is" simply indicates the most significant issue without necessarily implying it's the root cause.