very serious problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very serious problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the gravity or significance of an issue or situation. Example: "The company is facing a very serious problem with its supply chain that could impact production."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is a very serious problem.

The New York Times

"It is a very, very serious problem".

The New York Times

"He has a very serious problem," Mr. Perepelytsya said.

The New York Times

"There is a very serious problem with confidence," he added.

Independent

"This is a very, very serious problem," Mr. Levin said.

The New York Times

Only 4percentthinknk loneliness is a very serious problem.

The New York Times

"It became a very serious problem," Ms. Ruben said.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a symptom of a very serious problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

New York City has a very serious problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Even 20percentt indicates a very serious problem".

The New York Times

"We don't have a very serious problem of conservation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "very serious problem", ensure the context clearly illustrates the severity. Provide specific details or examples to underscore the significance of the issue. For instance, instead of just stating "the budget deficit is a very serious problem", explain how it impacts essential services or future economic stability.

Common error

Avoid using "very serious problem" as a default descriptor for minor inconveniences. Overusing this phrase diminishes its impact when describing genuinely critical situations. Reserve it for circumstances that pose significant risks or consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very serious problem" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "serious" is intensified by the adverb "very". Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability, serving to describe the significant nature of an issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "very serious problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe significant issues across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides numerous examples from authoritative sources, primarily in news and media, but also in scientific and encyclopedic content. While versatile, it's important to use it judiciously, reserving it for situations that genuinely warrant a strong emphasis on severity. Alternatives like "grave issue" or "critical situation" can provide variety and nuance. Remember to provide context when using this phrase to maximize its impact. Overuse without justification can dilute its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grave issue

Uses a different adjective to emphasize the severity of the problem.

critical situation

Replaces 'problem' with 'situation' to focus on the broader context and urgency.

dire predicament

Employs stronger vocabulary to highlight the challenging and unfavorable circumstances.

major concern

Substitutes 'problem' with 'concern' to soften the tone while maintaining the importance.

pressing matter

Focuses on the urgency and the need for immediate attention to the problem.

acute crisis

Highlights the sudden and intense nature of the problem.

significant challenge

Replaces 'problem' with 'challenge' to frame it as an obstacle to overcome.

worrisome development

Shifts the focus to the evolving and potentially negative aspects of the problem.

troubling matter

Emphasizes the disturbing and unsettling nature of the problem.

precarious circumstance

Highlights the instability and potential for negative outcomes.

FAQs

What does "very serious problem" mean?

The phrase "very serious problem" indicates an issue or situation that poses a significant risk or has substantial negative consequences. It's used to emphasize the gravity of a situation that requires immediate attention and careful consideration.

What are some alternatives to "very serious problem"?

You can use alternatives like "grave issue", "critical situation", or "dire predicament" depending on the context and the level of formality required.

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

You can use "very serious problem" to highlight the importance or severity of an issue. For example, "Climate change is a very serious problem that requires global cooperation" or "The company is facing a very serious problem with its supply chain."

Is it better to say "serious problem" or "very serious problem"?

While both are grammatically correct, "very serious problem" intensifies the concern. Use "very serious problem" when you want to emphasize the critical nature of the issue. Otherwise, "serious problem" may suffice.