create a problem vs cause a problem

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Create a problem' is used when someone is intentionally making a problem or issue, while 'cause a problem' is used when something or someone is the reason behind a problem or issue.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 2942 views

create a problem

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to intentionally making a problem or issue.

This phrase is used when someone deliberately makes a problem or issue occur. It implies that the problem was intentionally brought into existence.

Examples:

His careless actions create a problem for the whole team.
I didn't mean to create a problem, but it happened anyway.

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Furthermore, if more than one disaster strikes in any one calendar year, the Fund's upper limit (EUR 1 billion) may also create a problem.
I totally trust the maid, but why create a problem?
And they hadn't done anything because - kind of, like in car business, engineers are there to solve problems, and we were asking them to create a problem.
We have explained to the Chilean authorities that the fact of opening a panel does not necessarily create a political problem or create a problem of diplomatic or other understanding.
I used the FBI to create a problem for Roger.
We create a problem for him and then solve it.
In the framework of modern automated monitoring systems and process control equipment, reporting does not create a problem.
So, essentially they create a problem, and then charge you to fix it.
The Hellenic Republic acknowledged that Greek legislation may create a problem in relation to Regulation No 343/2003 and displayed willingness to take measures in that regard.
The Commission is well aware of the concern that the application of state aid rules may create a problem for the functioning of the German alcohol monopoly.
Does not our liberalisation of the electricity market without ensuring sufficient investment, especially in the grid, create a problem?
These figures show that emissions from large combustion plants create a problem which should be a priority for common, supranational regulation.
It is so... typical of you to create a problem like this... when I finally have a chance to accomplish something!
Any slippage at this point would create a problem: when optimally loaded this lorry holds 33 pallets of food stacked high in the back.
Don't create a problem for us, for manufacturing, for application, then we have to buy new companies, we have to buy our competitors, we have to do all kinds of things because you sold too many widgets.

Alternatives:

make a problem
generate a problem
bring about a problem
initiate a problem
start a problem

cause a problem

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to being the reason behind a problem or issue.

This phrase is used when something or someone is the reason behind a problem or issue. It implies that the problem was a result of a particular cause.