when problems surface

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when problems surface" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the moment when issues or difficulties become apparent or noticeable. Example: "We need to have a plan in place when problems surface during the project to ensure we can address them promptly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

How do our favourite artists cope when problems surface?

Vice

The internal Navy documents obtained by POGO and Aviation Week shed light on another dimension: the reaction of military personnel when problems surface.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Still, when problems surfaced this winter, Mr. Schundler, a nonvoting member of the museum's board, distanced himself even though some advisers urged him to help resolve the emerging conflict between the museum's executive director, Nina S. Jacobs, staff members and the board.

The New York Times

Ms. Appelbaum is not always predicting doom for her banks: when problems surfaced at Xerox, for example, she noted that even under the worst circumstances, the company's lenders would likely get all of their money back.

The New York Times

When problems do surface, the preferred solution is typically ritualized apology, resignation and, in extreme cases, suicide.

The New York Times

The relationships seemed fine until cohabitation when problems then surface in a big way.

Huffington Post

The collapse of MF Global shows how easy it is to obscure risky investments and the pitfalls that can occur when those problems surface.

The New York Times

According to White Collar Watch, the collapse of MF Global shows how easy it is to obscure risky investments and the pitfalls that can occur when those problems surface.

The New York Times

Often times, when these problems surface, we immediately express our frustration, we vent to anyone or anything willing to listen.

Huffington Post

According to Ben Uglow of Morgan Stanley, another bank, Siemens's contract losses, writedowns, restructuring and other charges have totalled $34.5 billion since 2001, knocking huge dents in profits (see chart).Those familiar with the firm say that when problems have surfaced, engineers have been afraid to report them to the higher-ups, instead continuing to throw time and money at them.

The Economist

But it raises this question: Why did city officials not push harder for answers when the problems surfaced?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when problems surface" to introduce a discussion of solutions or preventative measures. It sets the stage for addressing potential issues proactively.

Common error

Avoid using "when problems surface" in very informal settings; simpler phrases like "if things go wrong" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when problems surface" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by specifying when the action in the main clause occurs. Ludwig AI examples show this clause introducing situations requiring action or describing reactions to emerging difficulties.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when problems surface" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, primarily found in News & Media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It serves as an adverbial clause of time, typically introducing discussions about addressing emerging difficulties. While generally neutral in register, it's best suited for situations requiring a somewhat professional tone. Consider alternatives like "as issues emerge" or "when challenges arise" for slight variations in formality or connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as problems come to light

Replaces "surface" with "come to light", emphasizing discovery.

as issues emerge

Replaces "problems" with "issues" and "surface" with "emerge", slightly more formal.

when challenges arise

Substitutes "problems" with "challenges" and "surface" with "arise", softening the negative connotation.

if complications arise

Substitutes "problems" with "complications" and "surface" with "arise", suitable for more technical contexts.

if difficulties occur

Changes "problems" to "difficulties" and "surface" to "occur", creating a more conditional tone.

when snags develop

Uses the informal term "snags" for "problems" and "develop" for "surface".

should issues present themselves

A more formal and cautious way of saying the same thing, using "present themselves" instead of "surface".

upon encountering difficulties

Focuses on the act of facing problems, replacing the entire clause with a participial phrase.

when matters go wrong

A general expression for when things don't go as planned.

in the event of issues arising

A more formal and legalistic phrasing, emphasizing a contingency.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when problems surface" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "should issues present themselves", "in the event of issues arising", or "upon encountering difficulties".

What's a less serious way to say "when problems surface"?

Informal alternatives include "when things go wrong", "when snags develop", or simply "if there are issues".

Is it always appropriate to use "when problems surface" in professional writing?

While generally acceptable, assess your audience. In very casual professional settings, consider alternatives like "if issues come up".

How does "when problems surface" differ from "when issues arise"?

"When problems surface" and "when issues arise" are quite similar, but "surface" often implies the problem was hidden or not immediately obvious, whereas "arise" simply means it occurs.