this very problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"this very problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a problem that has already been mentioned or that is expected to be understood from the context. Example: The government must do something to address this very problem.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Shirts exist to hide this very problem.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Public libraries began during the Depression as a government measure against this very problem.

The New Yorker

In any case, an undaunted Alexander Maksik has brought his skills to this very problem.

The New York Times - Books

There is, to be sure, division in the Bush Administration over this very problem.

The New Yorker

This very problem has, in fact, derailed many CRM programs at major organizations.

Harvard Business Review

She experienced this very problem, and she had a creative idea as to how to fix it.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

And, paradoxically, this is the very problem that the short life span of modern incandescents was meant to solve.

The New Yorker

Paradoxically, this is the very problem that the short life span of modern incandescents was meant to solve.

The New Yorker

Policies of this sort would exacerbate the very problem of income inequality that most needs fixing.

The New York Times

But she is promoting a badly flawed solution to this very real problem.

The Washington Post

Making a joke of suicide at Hernandez's expense stigmatizes this very real problem.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this very problem" to emphasize a specific issue already under discussion or clearly understood within the context. This can help focus the audience's attention and underscore the relevance of your point.

Common error

While "this very problem" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in contexts where simpler phrasing like "this problem" would suffice. Excessive use can make your writing sound repetitive or unnecessarily stiff.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this very problem" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically identifying and emphasizing a particular problem under discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status, highlighting its role in focusing attention on a pre-existing issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this very problem" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize a specific issue already understood within a given context. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability. It appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts. When writing, use "this very problem" to draw attention to a specific issue, but avoid overuse to prevent your writing from sounding repetitive. Alternative phrases like "this specific issue" or "the aforementioned problem" can provide variety. Remember, the aim is to ensure clarity and relevance, making "this very problem" a useful tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this specific issue

Replaces 'problem' with a more neutral term, 'issue', and maintains the demonstrative emphasis.

this particular difficulty

Substitutes 'problem' with 'difficulty' for a slightly varied tone.

this precise challenge

Uses 'challenge' instead of 'problem', framing it as an opportunity for overcoming.

the aforementioned problem

Refers back to a problem already mentioned, creating a formal tone.

the problem in question

Highlights that the problem is under discussion or consideration.

this exact concern

Replaces 'problem' with 'concern' shifting the focus to worry or anxiety.

this very matter

Substitutes 'problem' with 'matter', broadening the scope of the issue.

this very situation

Emphasizes the context or circumstances surrounding the problem.

the heart of the matter

Refers to the central or most important aspect of the problem.

the crux of the issue

Highlights the most critical point or difficulty of the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "this very problem" in a sentence?

Use "this very problem" to refer to a specific issue already mentioned or easily understood. For example, "The new policy aims to address "this very problem" of income inequality".

What's a less formal alternative to "this very problem"?

In less formal contexts, you might use alternatives like "this issue", "this problem", or "the problem we're talking about". These options are generally more suitable for casual conversation or less formal writing.

Is it redundant to say "this very problem"? Why use "very"?

The word "very" intensifies the demonstrative adjective "this", emphasizing the specificity of the problem. While sometimes redundant, it can be useful when you want to ensure the audience understands you are referring to a particular, previously discussed issue.

When is it appropriate to use "this very problem" over "the problem"?

Use "this very problem" when you want to highlight that the problem has already been established or is particularly relevant. "The problem" is more general, whereas "this very problem" adds emphasis and specificity.