widespread problem

USAGE SUMMARY

'widespread problem' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to a problem that a large number of people or entities are facing. For example, "Climate change is a widespread problem that threatens to disrupt life as we know it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There is a widespread problem here that needs addressing.

The Guardian - Money

"It was a widespread problem," he said in a deposition.

The New York Times

I am confident that this is not a widespread problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

Overfishing is also, of course, a widespread problem.

The New York Times

Bribery is a widespread problem in the developing world.

The New York Times

Low enrollment in physics is a widespread problem.

The New York Times

*As a doctor, he understands the widespread problem of performance-enhancing drugs.

The New York Times - Sports

"They have no viability," he said, citing inexperience as a widespread problem.

The New York Times

Lord Justice Leveson found that there was no evidence that police corruption is a widespread problem.

The Guardian

Abuse of women is a serious and widespread problem in tribal areas.

The Guardian

But Section 8 discrimination remains a widespread problem, housing advocates, tenant lawyers and voucher holders say.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "widespread problem", ensure you provide specific context or examples to illustrate the scope and impact of the problem.

Common error

Avoid using "widespread problem" without sufficient evidence. Ensure the issue truly affects a significant portion of the population or system, and avoid exaggerating its prevalence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widespread problem" functions as a descriptor, specifically a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It identifies a problem (noun) that is widespread (adjective), meaning it affects a large number of people or things. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "widespread problem" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe an issue that affects many people or things. As evidenced by the numerous examples found by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide specific context and avoid overstating the scope of the problem. Consider using synonyms like "common issue" or "prevalent concern" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The term has a neutral register and is broadly applicable. Overall, "widespread problem" serves to highlight the extensive nature and broad impact of a given issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common issue

This alternative indicates that the problem occurs frequently, differing slightly in that it doesn't necessarily imply a severe impact.

prevalent concern

This alternative highlights the worry or anxiety caused by the problem, adding an emotional dimension.

pervasive issue

This suggests the problem is deeply ingrained and affects many aspects of something, emphasizing its reach.

rampant issue

This alternative suggests the problem is spreading quickly and uncontrollably, implying a sense of urgency.

extensive difficulty

This highlights the degree of trouble or hardship the problem causes, shifting the focus to its impact.

systemic failing

This highlights that the problem is caused by a flaw or weakness in the overall system.

general problem

This alternative is a more generic term, indicating a problem that is not specific or localized.

broad challenge

This frames the problem as an obstacle that needs to be overcome, suggesting a proactive approach.

ubiquitous phenomenon

This emphasizes that the problem is observed everywhere, almost unavoidable.

global crisis

This escalates the problem to a severe, worldwide scale, indicating significant consequences.

FAQs

What does "widespread problem" mean?

A "widespread problem" refers to an issue that affects many people, places, or things. It indicates that the problem is not isolated but rather prevalent across a broader scope.

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

You can use "widespread problem" to describe various issues, for example: "The lack of affordable housing is a "widespread problem" in many urban areas."

What can I say instead of "widespread problem"?

You can use alternatives like "common issue", "prevalent concern", or "pervasive issue" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as a "widespread problem"?

No, ensure that the issue truly affects a large portion of the population or system. If the problem is localized or affects only a small group, a more specific descriptor would be more accurate.