tough problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tough problem" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a common expression used to describe a difficult or challenging issue or situation. Example: "The company is facing a tough problem with decreasing sales and increasing competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

The bulb makers face a tough problem.

The New York Times - Tech

"But this is a tough, tough problem.

The New York Times

"This is a very tough problem".

The New York Times

"It is a tough, tough problem.

The New York Times

It's an easy answer to a tough problem.

The Guardian

With one especially tough problem to crack: how to present the largely immobilized guest of honor.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

I'm really, really good at figuring out tough problems.

The New York Times

My rule has been to surface the tough problems.

The New York Times

He understands that these are tough problems and the politics are still difficult.

The New York Times

"I don't think the American people sent us here to avoid tough problems," he said.

The New York Times

Mark Hurd wanted people experienced with tough problems, like laying off fifteen thousand people.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tough problem", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the problem difficult. Be specific about the challenges involved to provide clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "tough problem" as a vague descriptor. Instead of simply stating something is a "tough problem", explain why it is tough and what specific challenges it presents. For example, instead of saying "Finding a solution is a tough problem", say "Finding a sustainable and cost-effective solution is a tough problem due to limited resources and conflicting stakeholder interests."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tough problem" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "tough" modifies the noun "problem". It describes a situation or issue that presents significant difficulty or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tough problem" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a challenging or difficult situation. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use. It appears frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, it's best to provide specific details about why the problem is tough to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include phrases such as "difficult challenge" or "complex situation", which can add nuance depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging issue

Replaces 'problem' with 'issue', emphasizing the difficulty of the matter.

difficult challenge

Replaces 'tough' with 'difficult' and 'problem' with 'challenge', both synonyms maintaining the core meaning.

complex situation

Shifts focus to the intricacy of the situation rather than just the difficulty.

complicated matter

Highlights the entanglement and difficulty in understanding or resolving the matter.

thorny question

Emphasizes the troublesome and contentious nature of the problem.

knotty issue

Similar to 'thorny question', this emphasizes the complexity and difficulty in untangling the problem.

vexing question

Highlights the frustrating nature of the problem.

critical dilemma

Emphasizes the importance and difficulty of the decision or situation.

significant hurdle

Focuses on the obstacle aspect of the problem, suggesting something that needs to be overcome.

formidable obstacle

Highlights the imposing and challenging nature of the obstacle.

FAQs

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

Use "tough problem" to describe a difficult or challenging situation. For example, "The company is facing a "tough problem" with declining sales" or "Climate change presents a "tough problem" for future generations".

What are some alternatives to saying "tough problem"?

Alternatives include "difficult challenge", "complex situation", or "complicated matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "tough problem" or "difficult problem"?

"Tough problem" and "difficult problem" are largely interchangeable. "Tough" might suggest a more resilient or demanding quality, while "difficult" is a more general term for something not easy to do or understand.

What makes something qualify as a "tough problem"?

A "tough problem" is characterized by significant challenges, obstacles, or complexities that make it difficult to resolve or overcome. It often requires considerable effort, resources, or innovative thinking.