the whole problem

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a situation that is difficult and complicated, and you would like to express that the difficulty of the situation exists as a whole. For example: "The whole problem is that I don't know what to do."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"That's the whole problem.

The New York Times

"Fix the whole problem.

The New York Times

But he is not the whole problem.

The Economist

"It encapsulates the whole problem of Mexico".

The New York Times

Yet it is not the whole problem.

The Economist

"This is the whole problem.

The Guardian

"That's the whole problem with the seventies".

The New Yorker

"Can they resolve the whole problem?

The New York Times

That is the whole problem, in an organic nutshell.

The Economist

And unintended births are not the whole problem.

The New York Times

"I thought — oh my God! — this is the whole problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using this phrase when addressing solutions that require looking at all angles. For example, in project management, understanding "the whole problem" helps you develop effective and complete strategies that account for every potential difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "the whole problem" when a specific aspect or symptom is the actual focus. It's important not to overstate the breadth of the issue if you're only dealing with a part of it, or your solutions might be ineffective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the whole problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the entirety of a difficult or complicated situation, Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the whole problem" is a common noun phrase used to refer to all aspects of a complex issue. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. It is frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting its widespread use across different registers. To use it effectively, consider the entire scope of the issue, and avoid oversimplifying when focusing on specific aspects. The related phrases offer alternative ways to express this comprehensive view, enhancing clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the entire issue

Replaces 'problem' with 'issue', emphasizing the scope of the matter.

the complete picture

Uses a metaphor to suggest a full understanding of the situation.

the full extent of the matter

Emphasizes the scope and depth of the problem.

the crux of the matter

Focuses on the most important point or aspect of the problem.

the heart of the problem

Highlights the core or central aspect of the problem.

the underlying issue

Shifts focus to the foundational cause.

the root cause

Specifies the origin of the problem.

the central difficulty

Replaces 'problem' with 'difficulty', suggesting a challenge.

the key challenge

Highlights a difficult task or issue.

the main concern

Highlights a major worry or issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "the whole problem" to refer to all aspects of a complex situation. For example, "The whole problem is that we lack the resources to address every symptom effectively."

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

You can use alternatives like "the entire issue", "the complete picture", or "the crux of the matter" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "the whole problem" or "the main problem"?

The choice depends on whether you're addressing every aspect of an issue or just a key aspect. Use "the whole problem" when you're considering everything. Use "the main problem" when focusing on the most significant part.

What's the difference between "the whole problem" and "the underlying issue"?

"The whole problem" encompasses all aspects of a situation, while "the underlying issue" refers to the fundamental cause or root of the difficulty.