this is the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when identifying or highlighting an issue or difficulty in a discussion or explanation. Example: "After reviewing the data, I can confidently say that this is the problem we need to address in our strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And this is the problem.

The New York Times

This is the problem with guilt.

Independent

This is the problem with Leibovitz.

Independent

This is the problem of personal distribution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is the problem of "external validity".

The New Yorker

This is the problem with being misquoted.

The New York Times

This is the problem of distributive shares.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A. This is the problem.

The New York Times - Health

"This is the problem really.

The Guardian

This is the problem with multipolarity.

The New York Times

This is the problem with the show.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is the problem" to clearly and directly identify the core issue you are addressing in your writing. This ensures clarity and focus for your audience.

Common error

While "this is the problem" is acceptable in most contexts, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Alternatives like "here's the thing" or "the issue is" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is the problem" functions as a declarative statement used to identify and introduce a specific issue or difficulty. It serves to focus attention on the core challenge being addressed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is the problem" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to pinpoint a core issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for neutral to semi-formal contexts, commonly appearing in news, encyclopedias, and scientific discussions. While it effectively clarifies the central concern, alternative phrases might be considered for more formal or casual settings to fine-tune the tone. Understanding its function and context helps ensure its appropriate and impactful use in writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

here lies the difficulty

Changes the focus to the location of the problem, implying it's central to the situation.

this is where the issue arises

Highlights the point at which a problem starts to manifest.

the central difficulty is

Emphasizes the core or main nature of the problem.

the key challenge is

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

the main concern is

Substitutes "problem" with "concern", suggesting a worry or apprehension.

the crux of the matter is

Focuses on the most important point that's causing trouble.

that's the real issue

Emphasizes the genuineness of the identified issue.

the underlying cause is

Shifts the focus to the foundational reason behind the problem.

it all boils down to

Implies that the problem is a fundamental aspect after simplification.

this is the crux

Shortens the phrase to its most essential part, emphasizing a critical point.

FAQs

How can I use "this is the problem" in a sentence?

Use "this is the problem" to clearly identify the core issue or difficulty you are discussing. For example, "The budget cuts are affecting our ability to provide services; "this is the problem" we need to address".

What's a more formal alternative to "this is the problem"?

In more formal writing, consider alternatives like "the central issue is", "the primary challenge lies in", or "the key difficulty is". These phrases offer a similar meaning but convey a more professional tone.

Is it correct to say "this is a problem" instead of "this is the problem"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "This is a problem" indicates that something is problematic, while "this is the problem" identifies a specific issue that needs to be addressed. Consider the context to determine which phrase is more appropriate.

What can I say instead of "this is the problem" to sound less accusatory?

To avoid sounding accusatory, you can use phrases like "a challenge we face is", "an area for improvement is", or "a key consideration is". These alternatives focus on the issue itself rather than placing blame.