deep-seated problem
noun phraseUK /ˌdiːp ˈsiːtɪd ˈprɒbləm/
US /ˌdiːp ˈsiːtɪd ˈprɑːbləm/
A problem that is hard to fix because it has been there for a long time.
The town's deep-seated problem with litter took years to solve.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A hidden cause of trouble that is not easy to see at first.
The teacher looked for the deep-seated problem behind the students' bad grades.
3. A serious difficulty that has grown slowly over time.
Poverty is a deep-seated problem in many parts of the world.
4. A habit or feeling that is very hard to change.
His fear of speaking in public was a deep-seated problem.