root of the problem



*root of the problem

an understanding of the causes or basis of a problem. (*Typically: determine ~; figure out ~; find ~; get to ~; get at ~.) It will take a little more study to get to the root of the problem. Let's stop avoiding the issue and get at the root of the problem.
See also: of, problem, root

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Abdullo-Tajik
Yekaterinaye-kah-tye-REE-nah, ee-kah-tee-REE-nahRussian
Makram-Arabic
Sabellasə-BEL-əEnglish (Rare)
Rosemonde-French
Fatmire-Albanian