the problem in question

USAGE SUMMARY

"the problem in question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a problem that has already been discussed or identified. For example, "We have been discussing the problem in question all morning, but have yet to find a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

THE problem in question is real and troubling, according to most experts.

The Economist

Only after that does anyone want to know the problem in question.

The New York Times

In the first place, the orator must have a certain amount of prestige, and the problem in question must raise some interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The fewer simple alternatives exist, the more likely it is that the trait we actually possess did indeed evolve to solve the problem in question.

The Guardian - Books

"Given that the Irish government of the day decided not to legislate on the matter, it is difficult to see how" the Vatican's "letter to the Irish bishops, which was issued subsequently, could possibly be constructed as having somehow subverted Irish law or undermined the Irish state in its efforts to deal with the problem in question," the Vatican said.

The New York Times

The problem in question is characterized by different boundary conditions.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

The air force says the problems in question (including communications glitches in poor weather and landing mishaps) have since been solved.

The Economist

The problems in question are the Westchester Medical Center and the Yonkers school system, both of which have cut services, laid off employees and stand a few thin dimes from even worse.

The New York Times

The problems in question do not arise directly from the notion of an individual's existing in more than one possible world with different properties.

SEP

Citizens expect politicians to make sound decisions by bringing the best evidence to bear on the problems in question.

Health Research Policy and Systems

The problems in questions are of significant theoretical and practical interest.

Biology Direct

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the problem in question" to clearly refer back to a specific issue that has already been introduced or defined in the text, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the problem in question" if you haven't explicitly stated the problem earlier in your writing. Otherwise, it can confuse readers who aren't sure what you're referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the problem in question" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a determiner + noun + prepositional phrase construction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, highlighting its role in referencing a previously mentioned problem.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the problem in question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for referring to a previously mentioned issue. As supported by Ludwig AI, its formal tone makes it suitable for professional and academic contexts. It is prevalent in scientific and news publications, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity. Remember to introduce the problem before using this phrase to ensure your audience understands the reference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the issue at hand

Focuses on the immediacy and relevance of the problem.

the matter in question

Emphasizes the specific topic being discussed or investigated.

the subject under discussion

Highlights the act of discussing a particular subject.

the topic being considered

Stresses the process of thinking about a specific topic.

the challenge being addressed

Highlights the difficulty and effort involved in dealing with a problem.

the difficulty at issue

Points out a specific obstacle or complication that needs to be resolved.

the situation in question

Refers to a particular set of circumstances or events that constitute a problem.

the concern under investigation

Highlights the act of researching or examining a matter of concern.

the puzzle needing solving

Implies that the problem is like a riddle that needs to be figured out.

the dilemma under scrutiny

Emphasizes the careful and critical examination of a difficult choice or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "the problem in question" in a sentence?

Use "the problem in question" to refer to a specific problem that you've already mentioned. For example: "After analyzing the data, we can better understand "the problem in question"."

What are some alternatives to "the problem in question"?

You can use alternatives like "the issue at hand", "the matter in question", or "the subject under discussion" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "the problem in question" in formal writing?

Yes, "the problem in question" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly and professionally refers to a previously mentioned problem.

What's the difference between "the problem in question" and "the problem at hand"?

"The problem in question" refers to a problem that has already been identified, while "the problem at hand" often refers to the immediate or current problem that needs to be addressed.