threatening problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "threatening problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or issue that poses a significant risk or danger. Example: "The company is facing a threatening problem with cybersecurity that could jeopardize sensitive data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

It's not such a threatening problem.

The Guardian - Film

Sprawl is considered "the most threatening problem we face," said Ken Lewis, the owner of the 800-acre Gabilan View Farms outside Salinas.

The New York Times

It was an example, he said, of the president's dealing first with the less threatening problem, Iraq, because it was the easier to solve.

The New York Times

Usually being close to a globally threatening problem is bad, but sometimes it can be an advantage.

TechCrunch

The most threatening problem to society is the change in both terrestrial and aquatic environment caused by the different kinds of stresses (temperature, toxicants/pollutants, etc).

Advances in Difference Equations

Here we have a more threatening problem, since there is no apparent basis for denying that an argument having this form satisfies Hempel's criteria and therefore ought to be both explanatory and predictive.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

More threatening problems were downed wires and precariously hanging branches.

The New York Times

But the usefulness of the reports can be diluted if banks file them en masse without being selective about the most threatening problems.

The New York Times

Not life threatening problems but things that help.

TechCrunch

Development of highly cost-effective, highly operation-convenient and highly efficient natural polymer-based adsorbents for their biodegradability and biocompatibility, and supply of safe drinking water are the most threatening problems in water treatment field.

Bioresource Technology

One of the major threatening problems faced by the aquaculture industries is the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains owing to extensive use of antibiotics, afterwards leading to a financial loss [ 4].

BMC Veterinary Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "threatening problem", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Threatening" implies a potential for harm or danger, so ensure this aligns with the context of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "threatening problem" for minor inconveniences or issues. Overusing strong language can diminish its impact when describing genuinely serious situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "threatening problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "threatening" modifies the noun "problem". Ludwig AI shows it's used to describe issues that pose a significant risk or danger.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

31%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "threatening problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a situation that poses a significant risk or danger. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides examples from diverse sources. The phrase is often used in news, science, and even wiki contexts, highlighting issues from cybersecurity to health risks. While versatile, it's crucial to use it judiciously, reserving it for situations where the threat is genuine and significant. Consider alternatives like "serious issue" or "grave concern" when a less intense description is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious issue

Replaces "threatening" with a more general term for severity.

grave concern

Emphasizes the importance and worry associated with the problem.

dangerous situation

Highlights the potential for harm or negative consequences.

critical difficulty

Stresses the severity and potential impact of the problem.

significant challenge

Presents the problem as an obstacle to be overcome.

pressing matter

Conveys a sense of urgency and the need for immediate attention.

alarming development

Focuses on the problematic evolution of a situation.

daunting obstacle

Suggests the problem is intimidating and difficult to overcome.

worrying trend

Highlights a pattern or tendency that is cause for concern.

troubling aspect

Draws attention to a specific part of a situation that is problematic.

FAQs

How can I use "threatening problem" in a sentence?

You can use "threatening problem" to describe a situation that poses a significant risk or danger, such as "The company is facing a "threatening problem" with cybersecurity."

What are some alternatives to "threatening problem"?

Alternatives include "serious issue", "grave concern", or "dangerous situation", depending on the context.

Is "threatening problem" too dramatic for everyday situations?

Yes, "threatening problem" suggests a significant risk. For less severe situations, consider milder alternatives like "challenging issue" or "difficult matter".

What's the difference between "threatening problem" and "serious problem"?

"Threatening problem" emphasizes the potential for future harm or danger, while "serious problem" simply indicates that the problem is significant in its current state.