there is a problem with

USAGE SUMMARY

"there is a problem with" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to an issue or difficulty that exists with something. For example: "There is a problem with the computer system, and we need to resolve it as soon as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Right now there is a problem with ebooks.

TechCrunch

There is a problem with the computer.

Independent

But there is a problem with it.

The Economist

But there is a problem with brainstorming.

The New Yorker

But there is a problem with electrodialysis.

MIT Technology Review

There is a problem with Botox, though.

The New York Times - Health

No: there is a problem with torture.

The New Yorker

There is a problem with this theory.

The Guardian - Arts

But there is a problem with the cautious approach.

The New Yorker

There is a problem with this approach, however.

The New Yorker

Toyota denies there is a problem with such systems.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is a problem with", clearly identify the subject or area to which the problem relates to avoid ambiguity. For example, "There is a problem with the internet connection" is clearer than "There is a problem".

Common error

Avoid using "there is a problem with" without specifying the exact nature of the problem. Instead of saying "There is a problem with the project", elaborate by saying "There is a problem with the project's budget allocation, which needs to be addressed promptly".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is a problem with" functions as an existential clause introducing a statement of concern or difficulty. It is used to highlight a specific issue related to a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

18%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there is a problem with" is a versatile and commonly used expression for identifying issues or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is suitable for various contexts, from informal conversations to formal reports, and its neutral tone makes it widely acceptable. When using the phrase, clarity is key: specifying the subject of the problem ensures effective communication. While alternatives like "there is an issue with" or "there is a difficulty with" exist, "there is a problem with" remains a direct and easily understood choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is an issue with

Substitutes "problem" with "issue", which can soften the negative connotation.

there is a difficulty with

Emphasizes the troublesome nature of the situation by using the word "difficulty".

there is a challenge with

Replaces "problem" with "challenge", suggesting a difficulty that requires effort to overcome.

there is a snag with

Replaces "problem" with "snag", implying a minor obstacle or complication.

there is a hitch with

Uses "hitch" instead of "problem", suggesting a temporary impediment.

there is a flaw with

Focuses on the imperfection or weakness inherent in something.

there is a fault with

Highlights a specific defect or flaw as the cause of the problem.

a concern exists regarding

Indicates that worry or unease is associated with something.

difficulties arise when

Highlights when difficulties appear in some situation.

a stumbling block is

Specifies the presence of a difficulty that impedes progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "there is a problem with" to indicate an issue or difficulty related to a specific subject. For example, "There is a problem with "the new software" that needs to be fixed".

What are some alternatives to "there is a problem with"?

Alternatives include phrases like "there is an issue with", "there is a difficulty with", or "a concern exists regarding" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "there's a problem with"?

Yes, "there's a problem with" is a contraction of "there is a problem with" and is perfectly acceptable in both spoken and written English, especially in informal contexts.

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

"There is a problem with" indicates a single, specific issue, while "there are problems with" suggests multiple issues or a more widespread concern. For example, "There is a problem with the printer" versus "There are problems with the entire network".