the only trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the only trouble" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used as a subject, object, or in a phrase modifying another word in the sentence. Example sentences: - The only trouble with our plan is that it's too risky. - I don't mind helping you out, but the only trouble is that I have to leave in an hour. - The only trouble they encountered on their trip was a flat tire. - We could do it, but the only trouble is we don't have enough time. - The only trouble I have with this job is the long commute.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The only trouble is.

The New York Times - Books

This disparity was not the only trouble.

The New York Times - Arts

There's no fridge is the only trouble".

The New Yorker

The only trouble is putting this into practice.

The Economist

The only trouble is, none of them are 19.

The New York Times - Magazine

The only trouble is the low quality of that yield.

The Guardian - Books

The only trouble is that you can detect them.

The Guardian

The only trouble was, Northerners wanted it, too.

The New York Times

The only trouble is, sometimes there really is a wolf.

The New York Times - Health

The only trouble, says White, was getting her to stop.

The Guardian - Sport

The only trouble was Abbott refused to endorse his candidature.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the only trouble", ensure that the context clearly identifies what the trouble is. This prevents ambiguity and makes your writing more precise.

Common error

Avoid using "the only trouble" when multiple issues are present. Accurately assess the situation to prevent misleading readers about the actual number of problems.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only trouble" functions as a noun phrase that often acts as a subject complement or an appositive. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and used in various contexts. It serves to identify a specific problem or difficulty, as shown in several of the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only trouble" is a grammatically sound phrase widely employed to spotlight a specific issue or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts. Its primary function is to single out a problem, and its neutral register makes it suitable for various forms of communication. While frequently found in news and media, it also appears in scientific and business contexts. When using this phrase, clarity and precision are key to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole issue

Emphasizes that this is the only problem, highlighting its uniqueness.

the main problem

Focuses on the primary issue among potentially many smaller issues.

the only concern

Highlights worry or anxiety as the single, notable difficulty.

the chief difficulty

Stresses the prominence and importance of the hurdle.

the single snag

Indicates a minor, isolated problem preventing progress.

the one hitch

Implies a temporary setback or unexpected obstacle.

the only drawback

Points out a solitary disadvantage or imperfection.

the core problem

Zeroes in on the fundamental issue at hand.

the central difficulty

Emphasizes that this is the main obstacle that needs resolution.

the key obstacle

Highlights that this particular issue is most important to overcome.

FAQs

How can I use "the only trouble" in a sentence?

Use "the only trouble" to introduce a single, significant problem or drawback. For example, "The design is excellent; "the only trouble" is the cost."

What phrases are similar to "the only trouble"?

Similar phrases include "the main problem", "the "sole issue"", or "the primary concern", which all highlight a single, notable difficulty.

When is it appropriate to use "the only trouble" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to single out one specific problem or difficulty, especially when other aspects are satisfactory. Be sure that is in fact the "only concern".

What is the difference between "the only trouble" and "the main problem"?

"The only trouble" suggests there is literally just one issue, whereas "the "main problem"" implies it's the most significant issue among others that may exist.