the extent of the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the extent of the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the size, scope, or seriousness of an issue or challenge. Example: "We need to assess the extent of the problem before deciding on the best course of action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The extent of the problem is unclear.

The New York Times

Few dispute the extent of the problem.

The New York Times

But the extent of the problem was hushed up.

The New York Times - Arts

The extent of the problem is a matter of dispute.

The New York Times

He said: "We never realised the extent of the problem.

The Guardian

Mexican authorities know full well the extent of the problem.

The New York Times

Vodafone has admitted the extent of the problem.

The Guardian - Money

There was no denial about the extent of the problem".

The Guardian

Because we don't know the extent of the problem.

The New York Times

Congress is slowly grasping the extent of the problem.

The Washington Post

This report describes the extent of the problem.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the extent of the problem", ensure you provide context or data to support the assessment. Quantify the extent whenever possible to provide clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the "extent of the problem" without sufficient data. Overstating the case can undermine your credibility and make your analysis less persuasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the extent of the problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a clause. It refers to the degree, size, or scope of a particular issue. Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

22%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the extent of the problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that serves to describe the scope or magnitude of an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. It is versatile enough for news, academic, and general discussions. When using the phrase, providing context or data to support the assessment is important to quantify the "extent of the problem" and to support your claim. Alternatives such as "the magnitude of the problem" or "the scope of the problem" can be used depending on the specific nuance. Understanding the frequency and range of the phrase will help to use it efficiently.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the magnitude of the problem

Changes the word "extent" to "magnitude", emphasizing the size or scale.

the scope of the problem

Replaces "extent" with "scope", focusing on the range or area affected.

the severity of the problem

Changes "extent" to "severity", highlighting the seriousness or gravity.

the scale of the problem

Uses "scale" instead of "extent", emphasizing the proportional size.

the depth of the problem

Replaces "extent" with "depth", focusing on the complexity or intensity.

the degree of the problem

Uses "degree" instead of "extent", highlighting the level or intensity.

the seriousness of the problem

Changes "extent" to "seriousness", emphasizing the gravity or importance.

the breadth of the problem

Replaces "extent" with "breadth", focusing on the wide range or scope.

the immensity of the problem

Changes "extent" to "immensity", emphasizing the vast size.

how far the problem goes

Rephrases the entire expression to be less formal and more direct.

FAQs

How can I use "the extent of the problem" in a sentence?

You can use "the extent of the problem" to describe the scope or magnitude of an issue. For example, "We need to determine "the extent of the problem" before implementing any solutions."

What are some alternatives to "the extent of the problem"?

Alternatives include "the magnitude of the problem", "the scope of the problem", or "the severity of the problem" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "extent of the problem" or "size of the problem"?

While both are acceptable, "extent of the problem" often implies a more comprehensive understanding of the issue's ramifications, whereas "size of the problem" can refer more literally to a measurable quantity. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. They are generally interchangeable with minimal change in meaning. For example: "the size of the problem" and ""the extent of the problem"".

Why is it important to understand "the extent of the problem"?

Understanding "the extent of the problem" is crucial for developing effective solutions and allocating resources appropriately. Without a clear grasp of the scope, efforts may be misdirected or insufficient. For example: Once we are able to estimate "the extent of the problem", we can start allocating resources and find a solution.