there is a problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "there is a problem" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce a problem or issue. For example: "There is a problem with our strategy that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is a problem here.

Independent

There is a problem, though.

The New York Times

"Yes, there is a problem.

The Economist

In practice, though, there is a problem.

The Economist

There is a problem of attitudes, too.

The Economist

But there is a problem here.

The New York Times

There is a problem with the computer.

Independent

"Yes, but there is a problem.

Independent

No doubt, there is a problem.

The Economist

"There is a problem," it begins.

The New York Times - Books

But there is a problem with it.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there is a problem" to introduce a specific issue that needs attention or resolution. For example: "There is a problem with the new software update that is causing system crashes."

Common error

While "there is a problem" is acceptable, avoid overuse in formal contexts. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "an issue exists" or "a difficulty has arisen" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is a problem" functions as an existential clause, asserting the existence of an issue or difficulty. Ludwig examples show it introducing specific concerns across diverse situations. It's a straightforward way to signal that something requires attention or resolution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "there is a problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce an issue. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. While its neutral register makes it versatile, more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain settings. When writing, be mindful of overusing the phrase, and consider stronger vocabulary to more precisely articulate the problem, as synonyms and related phrases can clarify your meaning. Overall, "there is a problem" serves as a clear and direct way to signal that something requires attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there's an issue

Uses the contraction "there's" for a slightly more informal tone while keeping the core meaning.

there's something wrong

Emphasizes that something is not right, using more direct language.

an issue exists

Replaces the more conversational "there is" with the formal "exists".

a difficulty arises

Substitutes "problem" with "difficulty" and "there is" with "arises", increasing formality.

a concern has emerged

Replaces "problem" with "concern" and uses a more formal verb phrase.

a challenge is apparent

Substitutes "problem" with "challenge", framing it as something to be overcome.

an obstacle presents itself

Replaces "problem" with "obstacle" and uses a more descriptive verb phrase.

we have a situation

Shifts focus to the existence of a "situation" that needs addressing.

something is amiss

Uses a more general expression to indicate something is wrong.

we've encountered a snag

Introduces a more informal term, "snag", to describe the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "there is a problem" in a sentence?

You can use "there is a problem" to introduce an issue or difficulty. For example, "There is a problem with the budget that needs immediate attention."

What can I say instead of "there is a problem"?

You can use alternatives like "an issue exists", "a difficulty arises", or "a concern has emerged" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "there is a problem"?

"There is a problem" is appropriate in many contexts, from informal conversations to professional settings. However, consider using more formal alternatives in highly formal writing.

What's the difference between "there is a problem" and "there's a problem"?

"There is a problem" is the full form, while "there's a problem" is a contraction. The contraction is slightly more informal but generally acceptable in most situations.