What does the word problem mean

VIEW FAVORITES yahooBuzzArticleHeadline = ‘Bush and Blair, Joined at the Hip, Sinking Together’; yahooBuzzArticleSummary = ‘»Never in modern history has the solution to one problem resulted in the creation of so many larger problems, especially since the initial ‘problem‘, Saddam Hussein’s weapons of mass destruction, turned out to be non-existent, «writes Rupert Cornwell in London’s The Independent. ‘ ❋ Unknown (2006)

The most influential arguments against the view that there is a genuine problem of transworld identity (or ˜problem of transworld identification™, to use Kripke’s preferred terminology) are probably those presented by Plantinga (1973, 1974) and Kripke (1980). ❋ Mackie, Penelope (2006)

One metaphysical problem concerns how change is possible (this has recently become known as the ˜problem of temporary intrinsics™). ❋ Hawley, Katherine (2004)

That there is no solution to the race problem is a statement heard so often in America that it has become almost proverbial; that the solution is simple if our citizens would approach the problem fairly is an observation made less often; but that _there is no problem_ would seem to be either the flippant remark of one who dabbles in sociology or the profound utterance of a new seer. ❋ Various (N/A)

The negro problem is one of many race problems which the United States has, but because it is the most pressing of all of our race problems it is frequently spoken of as _the race problem_. ❋ Unknown (1909)

Although there would have been plenty of muttering, nothing would have been done to interfere with the solution of the problem which I had devised, _until the solution was accomplished and the problem ceased to be a problem_. ❋ Theodore Roosevelt (1888)

_What is the precise constitution of the Subliminal_ — such is the problem which deserves to figure in our Science hereafter as the _problem of ❋ William James (1876)

It is well known to most of my readers that woman is a problem; but it may not be as well known that now-a-days, she is a _mathematical problem_. ❋ Frederick Marryat (1820)

Just as astronomy, at bottom, is a mechanical problem, and physiology, likewise, a chemical problem, so is history, at bottom, a _problem of psychology_. ❋ Edmund Spenser (1730)

* This isn’t a linux networking problem, per se, but it is a networking problem* ❋ Unknown (2010)

Our main problem is getting the populists to the polls. ❋ Unknown (2010)

But I would contend that the main problem is in not altering in any significant way the miserable life circumstances of those that a populist movement is supposed to care about, the average working class person. ❋ Unknown (2010)

The main problem is that most universities make it a gigantic pain in the ass for someone who needs to work full-time to pursue a degree. ❋ Unknown (2009)

The main problem is achieving a large increase in first stage specific impulse. ❋ Unknown (2009)

The main problem is that NASA, by paying a profit on engineering development, pays for nearly endless process. ❋ Unknown (2009)

But the main problem is south of the border when the govt of Mexico actively encourages its poorer citizens to leave the country and go to the US violating our laws. ❋ Unknown (2010)

The main problem is still that big time football and basketball are considered part of Title IX, which has gutted men’s sports. ❋ Unknown (2010)

I think the main problem is that the work lawyers actually do is pretty diverse and rather specialized from area to area. ❋ Unknown (2010)

The main problem is that they have two werewolves with them. ❋ Unknown (2009)

My main problem is finding a home for the horse and extra dogs ….. ❋ Unknown (2009)

[damm] [shorty] a [fuckin] problem ❋ J-mellz (2009)

[You know what’s] [wrong] with the world? [George W. Bush]! ❋ Sure (2003)

that [song] is [a problem] ❋ JMills (2004)

[Whats] [yo] problem [man]? ❋ B-ryan (2003)

[For fucks sake] you [fucking cunt] what is your [cunting] problem ❋ Neil999 (2006)

Police: you can’t [skate] here!
[Skater]: Problem [officer]? ❋ JonnyLeonard (2011)

People who HATE [other people] (namely [our President]) have a definite [peace] problem. ❋ The Seal (2006)

«Hey, [thanks] for giving me [a ride]!»
«Sure! [No problem]!» ❋ Julivee (2005)

While [doing a crossword] puzzle with some friends…A friend says name me an eight letter word that ends in [EMS]. Without hesitation the local [fire chief] yells PROBLEMS! I didn’t have them without EMS! ❋ 44431 (2011)

Me: “I [respectfully] disagree with you but I want to still be on [good terms] despite our differing opinions”
[Stupid person]: “Ugh you are a part of the problem ❋ DeiselSandwich (2020)

Noun



Racism and sexism are major social problems.



The company is having financial problems.



He has chronic health problems.



The mechanic fixed the problem with the car.



There are a few problems with your argument.



We have to find a way to solve this problem.



She is bothered by family problems.



We didn’t have any problems getting here.



I have my own problems to deal with.



Mosquitoes are a problem in the summer.

See More

Recent Examples on the Web



Drug overdoses remain a serious public health problem nationwide.


Angela Roberts, Baltimore Sun, 31 Mar. 2023





No problem, said TVR.


Brendan Mcaleer, Car and Driver, 31 Mar. 2023





That’s a problem by itself.


Jeffrey Bellin, Fortune, 31 Mar. 2023





Nationally, more than 100 million people are burdened with medical debt, which can cause problems such as food insecurity, a loss of housing and bankruptcy.


Donovan J. Thomas, ajc, 31 Mar. 2023





Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause redness, pimples, and eye problems.


Cindy Kuzma, Health, 31 Mar. 2023





Set a cohesive multi-communication customer servicing strategy to address their problems and increase their satisfaction.


Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 31 Mar. 2023





But Daniels also saw a potential problem.


The Indianapolis Star, 31 Mar. 2023





But save those problems for another day.


The Editorial Board, WSJ, 31 Mar. 2023




The obvious solution to a non-problem MLB felt the need to address is to have the player on deck retrieve the bat at the plate and toss it toward the dugout.


Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2023





But for most of us, video might simply be the latest non-solution to a non-problem.


Amanda Mcloughlin, Rolling Stone, 13 Oct. 2022





In response largely to a non-problem, Democrats want to trample on the prerogatives of states to conduct elections, mandating their electoral priorities throughout the land.


Rich Lowry, National Review, 9 Mar. 2021





The staff is trained to address residents who show confused or problem behavior.


San Diego Elder Law Center, sandiegouniontribune.com, 24 Apr. 2018





Many people might be surprised to learn that undocumented immigrants are not typically problem children.


Ellen Mcgirt, Fortune, 5 Mar. 2017





Problem officers make things difficult for good ones, said Jim Pasco, executive director of the Fraternal Order of Police, America’s largest police-labor organization.


Gary Fields, WSJ, 30 Dec. 2016





Tracy Chou, a young engineer at Pinterest, is tackling tech’s women problem head-on.


Nathan Heller, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2014



See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word ‘problem.’ Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Britannica Dictionary definition of PROBLEM

[count]

:

something that is difficult to deal with

:

something that is a source of trouble, worry, etc.

  • Racism and sexism are major social problems.

  • The company is having financial problems.

  • She has a drug problem. [=she is addicted to drugs]

  • He has chronic health/medical problems.

  • She has a weight problem. [=her weight is not healthy]

  • The mechanic fixed the problem with the car.

  • There are a few problems with your argument.

  • We have to find a way to solve this problem.

  • She is bothered by family/personal/marriage problems.

  • We didn’t have any problems getting here.

  • I have my own problems to deal with.

  • Mosquitoes are a problem in the summer.

  • When he drinks too much, he causes problems.

  • The problem with you is that you’re too stubborn.

  • We would love to have a dog. The only problem is (that) [=the reason that would be difficult is] we don’t have the time to take care of it.

  • The fact that you’re late is not my problem. [=I am not responsible for helping you deal with the problem of being late]

[singular]

:

difficulty in understanding something

  • I’m having a problem following your argument.

:

a feeling of not liking or wanting to do something

  • “We’ll have to leave a little early.” “OK, I don’t have a problem with that.” [=that doesn’t bother me]

  • “He says he won’t go.” “What’s his problem? ” [=why is he being so unreasonable?]

[count]

:

a mathematical question to be solved

  • a math problem

  • Solve these problems for homework.

no problem

informal

also

not a problem

used to say that you are happy to do something or that you are not bothered by something

  • “Thanks for your help.” “No problem.”

  • “I’m sorry for interrupting you.” “No problem.”

  • “Can you get this done by lunchtime?” “No problem.”

  • “I would like to pay with my credit card.” “Not a problem.”

Britannica Dictionary definition of PROBLEM

always used before a noun

:

difficult to deal with

  • a problem child

English[edit]

Alternative forms[edit]

  • probleme (obsolete)

Etymology[edit]

From Middle English probleme, from Middle French probleme, from Latin problema, from Ancient Greek πρόβλημα (próblēma, anything thrown forward, hindrance, obstacle, anything projecting, a headland, promontory), from προβάλλω (probállō, to throw or lay something in front of someone, to put forward), from προ- (pro-, in front of) + βάλλω (bállō, to throw, to cast, to hurl).

Pronunciation[edit]

  • (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˈpɹɒbləm/
  • (dated, Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˈpɹɒblɪm/
  • (General American) IPA(key): /ˈpɹɑbləm/
  • Audio (southern England) (file)
  • Hyphenation: prob‧lem

Noun[edit]

problem (plural problems)

  1. A difficulty that has to be resolved or dealt with.

    She’s leaving because she faced numerous problems to do with racism.

    • 1910, Emerson Hough, chapter I, in The Purchase Price: Or The Cause of Compromise, Indianapolis, Ind.: The Bobbs-Merrill Company, →OCLC:

      [] it is not fair of you to bring against mankind double weapons ! Dangerous enough you are as woman alone, without bringing to your aid those gifts of mind suited to problems which men have been accustomed to arrogate to themselves.”

  2. A question to be answered, schoolwork exercise.

    Study hard, but don’t overdo it. The problems in the exam won’t be difficult to solve.

  3. A puzzling circumstance.
  4. Objection.

    You got a problem with that?

  5. Difficulty in accepting or understanding or refusal to accept or understand.
    You made your best honest effort; if they judge you harshly, that’s their problem, not yours.
  6. (climbing) A set of moves required to complete a climb.

Usage notes[edit]

Colloquially, «problem» in sense 1 can be put after an objective personal pronoun to create a noun phrase meaning «that person’s/those people’s problem.»

1994, Joel S. Weissman; Arnold M. Epstein, Falling Through the Safety Net: Insurance Status and Access to Health Care, page 30:

Until Middle America understands lack of insurance and underinsurance as an «us» problem rather than a «them» problem, the motivation for change will be diminished.

Antonyms[edit]

  • solution

Hyponyms[edit]

  • Entscheidungsproblem

Derived terms[edit]

  • alcohol problem
  • algorithmic problem
  • Apollonian problem
  • Archimedes’ problem
  • behavior problem
  • binding problem
  • combination problem
  • core problem
  • decision problem
  • drug problem
  • fencepost problem
  • fiscal problem
  • halting problem
  • Houston, we have a problem
  • logic problem
  • mathematical problem
  • no problem
  • problematic
  • problematical
  • problematize
  • wicked problem

Descendants[edit]

  • Welsh: problem

Translations[edit]

difficulty

  • Albanian: çështje (sq) f, zavall (sq) m, problem (sq) m
  • Amharic: ችግር (čəggər)
  • Arabic: مُشْكِلَة‎ f (muškila)
    Moroccan Arabic: مشكلة(muškila), مصيبة(muṣība), مشكل(muškil, muškul)
    Tunisian Arabic: مشكل(muškul)
  • Aragonese: problema m
  • Armenian: խնդիր (hy) (xndir)
  • Assyrian Neo-Aramaic: ܡܘܼܫܟܸܠܵܐ(muškila)
  • Asturian: problema m
  • Azerbaijani: problem (az), məsələ (az)
  • Bashkir: проблема (problema), мәсьәлә (mäs’älä)
  • Basque: arazo
  • Belarusian: прабле́ма (be) f (prabljéma)
  • Bengali: প্রব্লেম (bn) (problem), সমস্যা (bn) (śomośśa), ঝামেলা (bn) (jhamela), অসুবিধা (ośubidha)
  • Breton: kudenn (br) f
  • Bulgarian: пробле́м (bg) m (problém)
  • Burmese: ပြဿနာ (my) (pra.ssa.na)
  • Catalan: problema (ca) m
  • Cebuano: kalisud
  • Chinese:
    Mandarin: 問題问题 (zh) (wèntí), 困難困难 (zh) (kùnnán), 難題难题 (zh) (nántí), 麻煩麻烦 (zh) (máfán)
  • Czech: problém (cs) m
  • Danish: problem (da) n
  • Dutch: probleem (nl) n
  • Esperanto: problemo
  • Estonian: küsimus (et), takistus (et), kitsikus, mure, probleem
  • Finnish: ongelma (fi), (old slang) probleemi (fi), vaikeus (fi)
  • French: problème (fr) m
  • Galician: problema (gl) m
  • Georgian: პრობლემა (ṗroblema), სირთულე (sirtule)
  • German: Problem (de) n
  • Greek: πρόβλημα (el) n (próvlima)
    Ancient: ἀπορία f (aporía)
  • Hebrew: בְּעָיָה (he) f (be’aya)
  • Hiligaynon: palaligban, problema
  • Hindi: समस्या (hi) f (samasyā), मसला (hi) m (maslā), प्रश्न (hi) m (praśna), दिक़्क़त f (diqqat), दिक्कत (hi) f (dikkat), मुश्किल (hi) f (muśkil)
  • Hungarian: probléma (hu), baj (hu), gond (hu), nehézség (hu)
  • Icelandic: vandamál (is) n
  • Indonesian: masalah (id)
  • Irish: fadhb (ga) f, deacracht f
  • Italian: problema (it) m
  • Japanese: 問題 (ja) (もんだい, mondai)
  • Kazakh: мәселе (mäsele), проблема (kk) (problema)
  • Khmer: ចំណោទ (km) (cɑmnaot)
  • Korean: 문제(問題) (ko) (munje)
  • Kurdish:
    Northern Kurdish: problem (ku), mesele (ku)
  • Kyrgyz: проблема (ky) (problema), көйгөй (ky) (köygöy), маселе (ky) (masele)
  • Lao: ບັນຫາ (ban hā)
  • Latvian: problēma (lv) f
  • Lithuanian: problema f
  • Macedonian: про́блем m (próblem), тешко́тија (teškótija)
  • Malay: masalah (ms), kesulitan (ms), kemusykilan
  • Malayalam: പ്രശ്നം (ml) (praśnaṃ)
  • Maltese: problema f
  • Maore Comorian: taãɓu class 9/10
  • Maori: rarunga
  • Mirandese: porblema m
  • Mongolian:
    Cyrillic: хүндрэл (mn) (xündrel)
    Mongolian: ᠬᠦᠨᠳᠦᠷᠡᠯ (kündürel)
  • Neapolitan: prubblema
  • Ngazidja Comorian: shaka class 5/6
  • Norman: problième m (Jersey)
  • Norwegian:
    Bokmål: problem (no) n, aber (no) n
    Nynorsk: problem n
  • Occitan: problèma (oc) m
  • Old English: wiern f, hremming f
  • Oromo: rakkina
  • Pashto: مسئله‎ f (mas’ala), کشاله‎ f (kašāla)
  • Persian: مشکل (fa) (moškel), مسئله (fa) (mas’ale)
  • Polish: problem (pl) m, kłopot (pl) m
  • Portuguese: problema (pt) m
  • Romanian: problemă (ro) f
  • Russian: пробле́ма (ru) f (probléma)
  • Sanskrit: समस्या (sa) f (samasyā)
  • Scottish Gaelic: duilgheadas m, staing f
  • Serbo-Croatian:
    Cyrillic: про̀бле̄м m
    Roman: pròblēm (sh) m
  • Slovak: problém (sk) m
  • Slovene: problem m
  • Spanish: problema (es) m, dificultad (es) f, lío (es) m
  • Swahili: tatizo (sw) class 5/6, masaibu (sw)
  • Swedish: problem (sv) n
  • Tagalog: problema (tl)
  • Tajik: мушкил (tg) (muškil), масъала (masʾala), проблема (problema)
  • Tatar: мәсьәлә (mäs’älä)
  • Thai: ปัญหา (th) (bpan-hǎa)
  • Tibetan: རྙོག་དྲ (rnyog dra)
  • Turkish: sorun (tr), problem (tr)
  • Turkmen: problem, problema, mesele
  • Tuvaluan: fakalavelave
  • Ukrainian: пробле́ма f (probléma)
  • Urdu: مَسْئَلَہ‎ m (masalā), مُصِیبَت (ur) f (muṣībat), دِقَّت‎ f (diqqat), مُشْکِل‎ f (muśkil)
  • Uyghur: مەسىلە(mesile)
  • Uzbek: masala (uz), muammo (uz), problema (uz)
  • Vietnamese: vấn đề (vi) (問題)
  • Walloon: rujhe (wa) f, aroke (wa) f, arnåjhe (wa) f, rascråwe (wa) f, asticote (wa) f
  • Welsh: problem (cy) f
  • Yiddish: פּראָבלעם‎ m (problem)
  • Yucatec Maya: toop

schoolwork exercise

  • Arabic: تَمْرِين‎ m (tamrīn)
  • Armenian: խնդիր (hy) (xndir), հարց (hy) (harcʿ)
  • Asturian: problema m
  • Bashkir: мәсьәлә (mäs’älä)
  • Basque: buruketa (eu)
  • Belarusian: зада́ча (be) f (zadáča), зада́нне n (zadánnje)
  • Bengali: প্রশ্ন (bn) (prôśnô)
  • Breton: poelladenn f
  • Bulgarian: зада́ча (bg) f (zadáča)
  • Catalan: problema (ca) m
  • Chinese:
    Mandarin: 題目题目 (zh) (tímù), 習題习题 (zh) (xítí), 課題课题 (zh) (kètí)
  • Dutch: oefening (nl) f, probleem (nl) n
  • Estonian: harjutus
  • Finnish: harjoitus (fi), harjoitustehtävä (fi)
  • French: problème (fr) m
  • Galician: problema (gl) m
  • Georgian: ამოცანა (amocana)
  • German: Übung (de) f
  • Greek: πρόβλημα (el) n (próvlima)
    Ancient: πρόβλημα n (próblēma)
  • Hungarian: feladat (hu), példa (hu)
  • Interlingua: problema
  • Irish: fadhb (ga) f
  • Japanese: 問題 (ja) (もんだい, mondai), 課題 (ja) (かだい, kadai)
  • Korean: 문제(問題) (ko) (munje), 과제(課題) (ko) (gwaje)
  • Latvian: uzdevums m
  • Macedonian: за́дача f (zádača), про́блем m (próblem)
  • Maori: rapanga
  • Middle English: probleme
  • Norman: problième m (Jersey)
  • Norwegian:
    Bokmål: oppgave (no) m or f
  • Occitan: problèma (oc) m
  • Persian: مسئله (fa) (mas’ale)
  • Polish: zadanie (pl) n
  • Portuguese: problema (pt) m, exercício (pt) m
  • Romanian: problemă (ro) f, exercițiu (ro) n
  • Russian: зада́ча (ru) f (zadáča), зада́ние (ru) n (zadánije)
  • Serbo-Croatian:
    Cyrillic: про̀бле̄м m, зада́так m, једна̀џба f
    Roman: pròblēm (sh) m, zadátak (sh) m, jednàdžba (sh) f
  • Spanish: problema (es) m, ejercicio (es) m
  • Swahili: masaibu (sw)
  • Swedish: uppgift (sv) c, övning (sv) c, problem (sv) n
  • Thai: โจทย์ (th) (jòot)
  • Turkish: soru (tr)
  • Ukrainian: зада́ча f (zadáča), завда́ння (uk) n (zavdánnja)
  • Walloon: problinme (wa) m

puzzling circumstance

  • Arabic: مَسْأَلَة (ar) f (masʔala)
  • Bashkir: мәсьәлә (mäs’älä)
  • Basque: arazo, buruhauste
  • Bengali: প্রব্লেম (bn) (problem), সমস্যা (bn) (śomośśa), ঝামেলা (bn) (jhamela)
  • Catalan: problema (ca) m
  • Cebuano: problema
  • Dutch: probleem (nl) n
  • Estonian: mõistatus
  • Farefare: yelle
  • Greek: πρόβλημα (el) n (próvlima)
  • Irish: fadhb (ga) f
  • Lao: please add this translation if you can
  • Latin: problēma
  • Macedonian: тешко́тија f (teškótija), про́блем m (próblem)
  • Middle English: probleme
  • Norwegian:
    Bokmål: utfordring (no) m or f
  • Portuguese: problema (pt) m
  • Romanian: problemă (ro) f
  • Russian: пробле́ма (ru) f (probléma), зада́ча (ru) f (zadáča)
  • Serbo-Croatian:
    Cyrillic: про̀бле̄м m
    Roman: pròblēm (sh) m
  • Spanish: problema (es) m, embrollo (es) m, lío (es) m, bronca (es) f (Mexico)
  • Swahili: tatizo (sw), masaibu (sw)
  • Tagalog: problema (tl)
  • Thai: เรื่อง (th) (rʉ̂ʉang)

Adjective[edit]

problem (comparative more problem, superlative most problem)

  1. (of a person or an animal) Difficult to train or guide; unruly.
  2. Causing a problem; problematic; troublesome.
    • 2010, A. M. Aleksander, The Pride of the King[1]:

      It is more problem to my family than to me.

See also[edit]

  • trouble

Further reading[edit]

  • problem in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913
  • “problem”, in The Century Dictionary [], New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911, →OCLC.
  • problem at OneLook Dictionary Search

Azerbaijani[edit]

Etymology[edit]

Internationalism; ultimately from Ancient Greek πρόβλημα (próblēma).

Pronunciation[edit]

Noun[edit]

problem (definite accusative problemni, plural problemlər)

  1. problem

Declension[edit]

    Declension of problem
singular plural
nominative problem problemlər
definite accusative problemi problemləri
dative problemə problemlərə
locative problemdə problemlərdə
ablative problemdən problemlərdən
definite genitive problemin problemlərin
    Possessive forms of problem
nominative
singular plural
mənim (my) problemim problemlərim
sənin (your) problemin problemlərin
onun (his/her/its) problemi problemləri
bizim (our) problemimiz problemlərimiz
sizin (your) probleminiz problemləriniz
onların (their) problemi or problemləri problemləri
accusative
singular plural
mənim (my) problemimi problemlərimi
sənin (your) problemini problemlərini
onun (his/her/its) problemini problemlərini
bizim (our) problemimizi problemlərimizi
sizin (your) probleminizi problemlərinizi
onların (their) problemini or problemlərini problemlərini
dative
singular plural
mənim (my) problemimə problemlərimə
sənin (your) probleminə problemlərinə
onun (his/her/its) probleminə problemlərinə
bizim (our) problemimizə problemlərimizə
sizin (your) probleminizə problemlərinizə
onların (their) probleminə or problemlərinə problemlərinə
locative
singular plural
mənim (my) problemimdə problemlərimdə
sənin (your) problemində problemlərində
onun (his/her/its) problemində problemlərində
bizim (our) problemimizdə problemlərimizdə
sizin (your) probleminizdə problemlərinizdə
onların (their) problemində or problemlərində problemlərində
ablative
singular plural
mənim (my) problemimdən problemlərimdən
sənin (your) problemindən problemlərindən
onun (his/her/its) problemindən problemlərindən
bizim (our) problemimizdən problemlərimizdən
sizin (your) probleminizdən problemlərinizdən
onların (their) problemindən or problemlərindən problemlərindən
genitive
singular plural
mənim (my) problemimin problemlərimin
sənin (your) probleminin problemlərinin
onun (his/her/its) probleminin problemlərinin
bizim (our) problemimizin problemlərimizin
sizin (your) probleminizin problemlərinizin
onların (their) probleminin or problemlərinin problemlərinin

Danish[edit]

Noun[edit]

problem n (singular definite problemet, plural indefinite problemer)

  1. problem

Declension[edit]

Derived terms[edit]

  • helseproblem
  • hovedproblem
  • problembarn
  • rygproblem
  • søvnproblem
  • vægtproblem

References[edit]

  • “problem” in Den Danske Ordbog
  • “problem” in Ordbog over det danske Sprog

Indonesian[edit]

Etymology[edit]

From Dutch probleem, from Latin problēma, from Ancient Greek πρόβλημα (próblēma).

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): [ˈproblem]
  • Hyphenation: pro‧blém

Noun[edit]

problem (first-person possessive problemku, second-person possessive problemmu, third-person possessive problemnya)

  1. problem.
    Synonyms: masalah, perkara, persoalan

[edit]

  • problematik
  • problematis

Further reading[edit]

  • “problem” in Kamus Besar Bahasa Indonesia, Jakarta: Language Development and Fostering Agency — Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic Indonesia, 2016.

Middle English[edit]

Noun[edit]

problem

  1. Alternative form of probleme

Norwegian Bokmål[edit]

Noun[edit]

problem n (definite singular problemet, indefinite plural problem or problemer, definite plural problema or problemene)

  1. problem

Derived terms[edit]

  • helseproblem
  • hovedproblem
  • problembarn
  • ryggproblem
  • søvnproblem
  • vektproblem

References[edit]

  • “problem” in The Bokmål Dictionary.

Norwegian Nynorsk[edit]

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): /prʊˈbleːm/

Noun[edit]

problem n (definite singular problemet, indefinite plural problem, definite plural problema)

  1. problem

Derived terms[edit]

  • helseproblem
  • problembarn
  • ryggproblem
  • søvnproblem
  • vektproblem

References[edit]

  • “problem” in The Nynorsk Dictionary.

Polish[edit]

Etymology[edit]

Borrowed from French problème, from Middle French probleme, from Latin problēma, from Ancient Greek πρόβλημα (próblēma, obstacle), from προβάλλω (probállō, to throw or lay something in front of someone, to put forward), from προ- (pro-, in front of) + βάλλω (bállō, to throw, to cast, to hurl).

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): /ˈprɔb.lɛm/
  • Rhymes: -ɔblɛm
  • Syllabification: prob‧lem

Noun[edit]

problem m inan (diminutive problemik)

  1. problem
    Synonyms: bajer, zagwozdka

Declension[edit]

Derived terms[edit]

  • bezproblemowy
  • problemowy
  • bezproblemowo
  • problemowo
  • bezproblemowość
  • problemowość

Further reading[edit]

  • problem in Wielki słownik języka polskiego, Instytut Języka Polskiego PAN
  • problem in Polish dictionaries at PWN

Romanian[edit]

Noun[edit]

problem n (plural probleme)

  1. Alternative form of problemă

Declension[edit]

Serbo-Croatian[edit]

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): /prǒbleːm/

Noun[edit]

pròblēm m (Cyrillic spelling про̀бле̄м)

  1. problem

Declension[edit]

Swedish[edit]

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): /prʊˈbleːm/, /prɔ-/, /-ˈblɛːm/
  • Hyphenation: pro‧blem
  • Audio (of «ett problem,» meaning «a problem») (file)

Noun[edit]

problem n

  1. problem; difficulty
  2. problem; schoolwork exercise

Declension[edit]

Declension of problem 
Singular Plural
Indefinite Definite Indefinite Definite
Nominative problem problemet problem problemen
Genitive problems problemets problems problemens

Synonyms[edit]

The terms below need to be checked and allocated to the definitions (senses) of the headword above. Each term should appear in the sense for which it is appropriate. For synonyms and antonyms you may use the templates {{syn|sv|...}} or {{ant|sv|...}}.
  • fråga
  • komplikation
  • kris
  • spörsmål
  • tal
  • uppgift

[edit]

  • problematik
  • problematisera
  • problematisering
  • problematisk
  • problemavfall
  • problembarn
  • problembaserad
  • problemdiktning
  • problemdrama
  • problemformulering
  • problemfri
  • problemfylld
  • problemhärva
  • probleminventering
  • problemkomplex
  • problemkredit
  • problemlös
  • problemlösare
  • problemlösning
  • problemområde
  • problemorienterad
  • problemsituation
  • problemställning
  • problemtyngd

References[edit]

  • problem in Svenska Akademiens ordlista (SAOL)

Anagrams[edit]

  • plomber

Turkish[edit]

Etymology[edit]

From French problème.

Pronunciation[edit]

  • IPA(key): /pɾob.lɛm/

Noun[edit]

problem (definite accusative problemi, plural problemler)

  1. problem
    Synonym: sorun

Declension[edit]

Inflection
Nominative problem
Definite accusative problemi
Singular Plural
Nominative problem problemler
Definite accusative problemi problemleri
Dative probleme problemlere
Locative problemde problemlerde
Ablative problemden problemlerden
Genitive problemin problemlerin
Possessive forms
Nominative
Singular Plural
1st singular problemim problemlerim
2nd singular problemin problemlerin
3rd singular problemi problemleri
1st plural problemimiz problemlerimiz
2nd plural probleminiz problemleriniz
3rd plural problemleri problemleri
Definite accusative
Singular Plural
1st singular problemimi problemlerimi
2nd singular problemini problemlerini
3rd singular problemini problemlerini
1st plural problemimizi problemlerimizi
2nd plural probleminizi problemlerinizi
3rd plural problemlerini problemlerini
Dative
Singular Plural
1st singular problemime problemlerime
2nd singular problemine problemlerine
3rd singular problemine problemlerine
1st plural problemimize problemlerimize
2nd plural probleminize problemlerinize
3rd plural problemlerine problemlerine
Locative
Singular Plural
1st singular problemimde problemlerimde
2nd singular probleminde problemlerinde
3rd singular probleminde problemlerinde
1st plural problemimizde problemlerimizde
2nd plural probleminizde problemlerinizde
3rd plural problemlerinde problemlerinde
Ablative
Singular Plural
1st singular problemimden problemlerimden
2nd singular probleminden problemlerinden
3rd singular probleminden problemlerinden
1st plural problemimizden problemlerimizden
2nd plural probleminizden problemlerinizden
3rd plural problemlerinden problemlerinden
Genitive
Singular Plural
1st singular problemimin problemlerimin
2nd singular probleminin problemlerinin
3rd singular probleminin problemlerinin
1st plural problemimizin problemlerimizin
2nd plural probleminizin problemlerinizin
3rd plural problemlerinin problemlerinin
Predicative forms
Singular Plural
1st singular problemim problemlerim
2nd singular problemsin problemlersin
3rd singular problem
problemdir
problemler
problemlerdir
1st plural problemiz problemleriz
2nd plural problemsiniz problemlersiniz
3rd plural problemler problemlerdir

Derived terms[edit]

  • problem olmak
  • problemli
  • problemlilik
  • problemsiz
  • problemsizlik

[edit]

  • problematik

Vilamovian[edit]

Pronunciation[edit]

Noun[edit]

problem n

  1. problem

Welsh[edit]

Etymology[edit]

English problem, ultimately from Ancient Greek πρόβλημα (próblēma).

Pronunciation[edit]

  • (North Wales, standard, colloquial) IPA(key): /ˈprɔblɛm/
    • (North Wales, colloquial) IPA(key): /ˈprɔblam/
  • (South Wales) IPA(key): /ˈprɔblɛm/

Noun[edit]

problem f (plural problemau)

  1. problem

Mutation[edit]

Welsh mutation
radical soft nasal aspirate
problem broblem mhroblem phroblem
Note: Some of these forms may be hypothetical. Not every possible mutated form of every word actually occurs.

Further reading[edit]

  • R. J. Thomas, G. A. Bevan, P. J. Donovan, A. Hawke et al., editors (1950–present), “problem”, in Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru Online (in Welsh), University of Wales Centre for Advanced Welsh & Celtic Studies

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Here, the broader issues are already familiar, and discussion has focused at a more sophisticated and detailed level. Within the philosophy of mind, the problem of consciousness is no big news.

David Chalmers

section

ETYMOLOGY OF THE WORD PROBLEM

From Late Latin problēma, from Greek: something put forward; related to proballein to throw forwards, from pro-² + ballein to throw.

info

Etymology is the study of the origin of words and their changes in structure and significance.

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section

PRONUNCIATION OF PROBLEM

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GRAMMATICAL CATEGORY OF PROBLEM

Problem is a noun.

A noun is a type of word the meaning of which determines reality. Nouns provide the names for all things: people, objects, sensations, feelings, etc.

WHAT DOES PROBLEM MEAN IN ENGLISH?

Problem

A problem, which can be caused for different reasons, and, if solvable, can usually be solved in a number of different ways, is defined in a number of different ways. This is determined by the context in which a said problem or problems is defined. When discussed, a problem can be argued in multiple ways. Generally speaking, there are two positions to take, the polemic or the defensive. An example of this is the mother who has a problem with how her daughter is going out, dressed in a particular fashion. She may tell her daughter, there is no way she is leaving the house looking like that. In this example, the mother would be on the polemic side, and the daughter, who presumably would like to go out dressed however she pleases, would be on the defensive side.


Definition of problem in the English dictionary

The first definition of problem in the dictionary is any thing, matter, person, etc, that is difficult to deal with, solve, or overcome. Other definition of problem is a puzzle, question, etc, set for solution. Problem is also a statement requiring a solution usually by means of one or more operations or geometric constructions.

WORDS THAT RHYME WITH PROBLEM

Synonyms and antonyms of problem in the English dictionary of synonyms

SYNONYMS OF «PROBLEM»

The following words have a similar or identical meaning as «problem» and belong to the same grammatical category.

Translation of «problem» into 25 languages

online translator

TRANSLATION OF PROBLEM

Find out the translation of problem to 25 languages with our English multilingual translator.

The translations of problem from English to other languages presented in this section have been obtained through automatic statistical translation; where the essential translation unit is the word «problem» in English.

Translator English — Chinese


问题

1,325 millions of speakers

Translator English — Spanish


problema

570 millions of speakers

English


problem

510 millions of speakers

Translator English — Hindi


समस्या

380 millions of speakers

Translator English — Arabic


مُشْكِلَة

280 millions of speakers

Translator English — Russian


проблема

278 millions of speakers

Translator English — Portuguese


problema

270 millions of speakers

Translator English — Bengali


সমস্যা

260 millions of speakers

Translator English — French


problème

220 millions of speakers

Translator English — Malay


Masalah

190 millions of speakers

Translator English — German


Problem

180 millions of speakers

Translator English — Japanese


問題

130 millions of speakers

Translator English — Korean


문제

85 millions of speakers

Translator English — Javanese


Masalah

85 millions of speakers

Translator English — Vietnamese


vấn đề

80 millions of speakers

Translator English — Tamil


பிரச்சனை

75 millions of speakers

Translator English — Marathi


समस्या

75 millions of speakers

Translator English — Turkish


sorun

70 millions of speakers

Translator English — Italian


problema

65 millions of speakers

Translator English — Polish


problem

50 millions of speakers

Translator English — Ukrainian


проблема

40 millions of speakers

Translator English — Romanian


problemă

30 millions of speakers

Translator English — Greek


πρόβλημα

15 millions of speakers

Translator English — Afrikaans


probleem

14 millions of speakers

Translator English — Swedish


problem

10 millions of speakers

Translator English — Norwegian


problem

5 millions of speakers

Trends of use of problem

TENDENCIES OF USE OF THE TERM «PROBLEM»

The term «problem» is very widely used and occupies the 1.049 position in our list of most widely used terms in the English dictionary.

Trends

FREQUENCY

Very widely used

The map shown above gives the frequency of use of the term «problem» in the different countries.

Principal search tendencies and common uses of problem

List of principal searches undertaken by users to access our English online dictionary and most widely used expressions with the word «problem».

FREQUENCY OF USE OF THE TERM «PROBLEM» OVER TIME

The graph expresses the annual evolution of the frequency of use of the word «problem» during the past 500 years. Its implementation is based on analysing how often the term «problem» appears in digitalised printed sources in English between the year 1500 and the present day.

Examples of use in the English literature, quotes and news about problem

10 QUOTES WITH «PROBLEM»

Famous quotes and sentences with the word problem.

We worked on solving the problem of voice communications in a noisy military environment. We established military codes that are highly audible and invented selection tests for personnel who had a superior ability to recognize sound in a noisy background.

The clear problem of the outlawing of insult is that too many things can be interpreted as such. Criticism, ridicule, sarcasm, merely stating an alternative point of view to the orthodoxy, can be interpreted as insult.

When you have energy companies like Shell and British Petroleum, both of which are perhaps represented in this room, saying there is a problem with excess carbon dioxide emission, I think we ought to listen.

Some tell me I’ll break my ankle on my high heels — but I live in them. I’m known for doing speed dashes and leaps and bounds in heels. No problem.

Since scarcity is the basic economic problem, if it does not exist then there is no reason for my economics course. Devoting time to the study of how people use limited resources to fulfill unlimited wants and needs should help us to discover how to best utilize the resources we have at our disposal.

My life used to be like that game of freeze tag we played as kids. Once tagged, you had to freeze in the position you were in. Whenever something happened, I’d freeze like a statue, too afraid of moving the wrong way, of making the wrong decision. The problem is, if you stand still too long, that’s your decision.

There’s lots of problem solving in any marriage, but when you have this collective goal that is a human being, it’s an inspiring rally point.

Here, the broader issues are already familiar, and discussion has focused at a more sophisticated and detailed level. Within the philosophy of mind, the problem of consciousness is no big news.

It’s an issue that we need to have a national discussion about, the militarization of local police forces, and then when they are used to quell peaceful demonstration. Then we have a problem, and especially around this entire case of the murder of Michael Brown at the hands of a Ferguson police officer.

If you swap it about, do television, theatre, film, you can go on surprising yourself. The problem is you get employed to do something you’ve already done. They want something from that sheep pen of performances they’ve seen you do.

10 ENGLISH BOOKS RELATING TO «PROBLEM»

Discover the use of problem in the following bibliographical selection. Books relating to problem and brief extracts from same to provide context of its use in English literature.

1

The USSR Olympiad Problem Book: Selected Problems and …

Over 300 challenging problems in algebra, arithmetic, elementary number theory and trigonometry, selected from Mathematical Olympiads held at Moscow University.

Давид Оскарович Шклярский, Николай Николаевич Ченцов, I. M. Yaglom, 1993

2

Problem-Solving Strategies

This unique collection of problems from major national and international mathematical competitions for high school students is for trainers and participants at all levels: IMO, Tournament of the Towns, and noncalculus parts of the Putnam …

3

The Monty Hall Problem : The Remarkable Story of Math’s Most …

Mathematicians call it the Monty Hall Problem, and it is one of the most interesting mathematical brain teasers of recent times. Imagine that you face three doors, behind one of which is a prize. You choose one but do not open it.

Jason Rosenhouse Associate Professor of Mathematics James Madison University, 2009

4

A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide

Drawing upon exclusive interviews with Washington’s top policy makers, access to newly declassified documents, and her own reporting from the modern killing fields, Power provides the answer in «A Problem from Hell,» a groundbreaking work …

5

Problem Book in Relativity and Gravitation

Although well suited for individual use, the volume may also be used with one of the modem textbooks in general relativity. «This work is full of interesting problems, arranged by subject and graded by difficulty.

One Bible, Many Answers In God’s Problem, the New York Times bestselling author of Misquoting Jesus challenges the contradictory biblical explanations for why an all-powerful God allows us to suffer.

7

Problem Solving 101: A Simple Book for Smart People

Outlines a popular Japanese problem-solving strategy, explaining how the author’s philosophies about critical thinking can be applied to American business environments to enable better decision making.

8

Poincaré and the Three Body Problem

The idea of chaos figures prominently in mathematics today. It arose in the work of one of the greatest mathematicians of the late 19th century, Henri Poincare, on a problem in celestial mechanics: the three body problem.

9

Problem Finding, Problem Solving, and Creativity

What is the role of problem solving in creativity? And how are problem solving and creativity related to problem finding? This book addresses these questions, and fills an obvious need for an overview of the research on problem finding.

10

The Birth of the Palestinian Refugee Problem Revisited

This 2004 book explores the realities behind the Palestinian exodus of 1948 during the Arab-Israeli war.

10 NEWS ITEMS WHICH INCLUDE THE TERM «PROBLEM»

Find out what the national and international press are talking about and how the term problem is used in the context of the following news items.

Greece’s Problem Is More Complicated than Austerity

Greece’s main economic problem is structural and an exit from the Eurozone will not solve it. Besides the short-term costs of such a move, … «blogs.hbr.org, Jul 15»

China’s stock market is falling again, and it’s a huge problem for the …

But now the government has a bigger problem: Stocks fell 8.5 percent on Monday, the largest one-day decline in eight years, and people are … «Vox, Jul 15»

Here’s What the Kid From ‘Problem Child’ Looks Like Now

If you are a child of the ’90s, you probably grew up loving Problem Child. The 1990 comedy about a devious little boy named Junior who sets … «Zimbio, Jul 15»

EU ‘good’ at problem solving says UK commissioner

The European Union is «very effective» at solving problems, Britain’s top official in Brussels has said, amid reports it is becoming more receptive … «BBC News, Jul 15»

SBS Bank resolving transaction problem

SBS Group chief executive Wayne Evans said a small number of the bank’s customers experienced the problem on Sunday. «What was … «The Southland Times, Jul 15»

Seven reasons Bernie Sanders is a big problem for Hillary Clinton

Seven reasons Bernie Sanders is a big problem for Hillary Clinton. Date: July 28, 2015 — 11:54AM. (29); Read later … «Sydney Morning Herald, Jul 15»

Victoria failing on problem gambling in $2.5bn pokies industry …

The Victorian government has been criticised by academics and public health experts for its lacklustre measures to address problem gambling. «The Guardian, Jul 15»

Surging bad loans: Jaitley is worsening the problem by delaying …

The April-June quarter numbers of Chennai-based Indian Overseas Bank (IoB) clearly shows the extent of mess some of the state-run banks … «Firstpost, Jul 15»

Bossie: The John Boehner Problem

Time and time again, Boehner has failed to provide a vision or use the robust majority in the U.S. House—which conservatives provided … «Breitbart News, Jul 15»

Hillary Clinton’s Bernie Sanders Problem Is Bigger Than Anyone …

Hillary Clinton’s Bernie Sanders Problem Is Bigger Than Anyone Realizes. Jul 27, 2015 9:36 AM PDT. Seven ways in which the septuagenarian socialist from … «Bloomberg, Jul 15»

REFERENCE

« EDUCALINGO. Problem [online]. Available <https://educalingo.com/en/dic-en/problem>. Apr 2023 ».

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Discover all that is hidden in the words on educalingo

Other forms: problems

If you are facing something that will be difficult to handle, you have a problem on your hands. A problem is a roadblock in a situation, something that sets up a conflict and forces you to find a resolution.

The meaning of the Greek word próblēma meant «to put forth,» which is different from the meaning of problem today, but it reminds you that any problem becomes easier to solve once you have defined it. A math problem is easier once you have the numbers in front of you: that’s why word problems can be so difficult. Problem can also be an adjective in rare cases. Once you were a problem child, but now you spend your time listening to everyone else’s problems.

Definitions of problem

  1. noun

    a question raised for consideration or solution

    “our homework consisted of ten
    problems to solve”

    see moresee less

    types:

    show 11 types…
    hide 11 types…
    mystifier, puzzle, puzzler, teaser

    a particularly baffling problem that is said to have a correct solution

    case

    a problem requiring investigation

    homework problem

    a problem that students are assigned to do outside of class

    brain-teaser, conundrum, enigma, riddle

    a difficult problem

    poser, sticker, stumper, toughie

    a particularly difficult or baffling question or problem

    Gordian knot

    any very difficult problem; insoluble in its own terms

    koan

    a paradoxical anecdote or a riddle that has no solution; used in Zen Buddhism to show the inadequacy of logical reasoning

    pons asinorum

    a problem that severely tests the ability of an inexperienced person

    rebus

    a puzzle where you decode a message consisting of pictures representing syllables and words

    sudoku

    a number puzzle in which the numbers 1 through 9 must be placed into a grid of cells so that each row or column contains only one of each number

    acrostic, word square

    a puzzle where you fill a square grid with words reading the same down as across

    type of:

    head, question

    the subject matter at issue

  2. noun

    a source of difficulty

    “what’s the
    problem?”

    synonyms:

    trouble

  3. noun

    a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved

    “she and her husband are having
    problems

    “urban
    problems such as traffic congestion and smog”

    synonyms:

    job

    see moresee less

    types:

    race problem

    a social and political problem caused by conflict between races occupying the same or adjacent regions

    balance-of-payments problem

    an economic problem caused by payments for imports being greater than receipts for exports

    type of:

    difficulty

    a condition or state of affairs almost beyond one’s ability to deal with and requiring great effort to bear or overcome

DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘problem’.
Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors.
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WordReference Random House Learner’s Dictionary of American English © 2023

prob•lem /ˈprɑbləm/USA pronunciation  n. [countable]

  1. any question or matter involving doubt or difficulty:has financial and emotional problems.
  2. a statement requiring a solution, usually by means of mathematical operations:simple problems in addition.

adj. [before a noun]

  1. unwilling to cooperate;
    unruly:a problem child.

Idioms

  1. no problem, (is used to express the speaker’s willingness to do something):«Can you come to the meeting tomorrow?» —»No problem.»

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2023

prob•lem 
(probləm),USA pronunciation n. 

  1. any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty.
  2. a question proposed for solution or discussion.
  3. [Math.]a statement requiring a solution, usually by means of a mathematical operation or geometric construction.
  4. no problem, (used as a conventional reply to a request or to express confirmation, affirmation, or gratitude).

adj.

  1. difficult to train or guide;
    unruly:a problem child.
  2. [Literature.]dealing with choices of action difficult either for an individual or for society at large:a problem play.
  • Greek próblēma origin, originally, obstacle, (akin to probállein to throw or lay before), equivalent. to pro- pro2 + -blē-, variant stem of bállein to throw (compare parabola) + -ma noun, nominal suffix of result
  • Latin problēma
  • Middle English probleme 1350–1400

    • 1, 2.See corresponding entry in Unabridged puzzle, riddle, enigma.


    • 1.See corresponding entry in Unabridged certitude.


Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

problem /ˈprɒbləm/ n

  1. any thing, matter, person, etc, that is difficult to deal with, solve, or overcome
  2. (as modifier): a problem child
  3. a puzzle, question, etc, set for solution
  4. a statement requiring a solution usually by means of one or more operations or geometric constructions
  5. (modifier) designating a literary work that deals with difficult moral questions: a problem play

Etymology: 14th Century: from Late Latin problēma, from Greek: something put forward; related to proballein to throw forwards, from pro-² + ballein to throw

problem‘ also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):

  • Top Definitions
  • Synonyms
  • Quiz
  • Related Content
  • More About Problem
  • Examples
  • British
  • Idioms And Phrases

This shows grade level based on the word’s complexity.

[ prob-luhm ]

/ ˈprɒb ləm /

This shows grade level based on the word’s complexity.


noun

any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty.

a question proposed for solution or discussion.

Mathematics. a statement requiring a solution, usually by means of a mathematical operation or geometric construction.

adjective

difficult to train or guide; unruly: a problem child.

Literature. dealing with choices of action difficult either for an individual or for society at large: a problem play.

QUIZ

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There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?

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Idioms about problem

    no problem, Informal.

    1. (used as a conventional reply to a request or to express confirmation or affirmation): Sure, no problem, I can do that right away.
    2. (used as a conventional reply to an expression of gratitude or thanks): No problem, I’m glad I could help!

Origin of problem

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English probleme, from Middle French problème, from Latin problēma, from Greek próblēma “something thrown or put forward, projection, obstacle, defence, something offered as an excuse, something proposed as a task, practical or theoretical problem” (akin to probállein “to throw or lay before”), equivalent to pro- pro-2 + -blē-, variant stem of bállein “to throw” (cf. parabola) + -ma noun suffix of result

OTHER WORDS FROM problem

sub·prob·lem, noun

Words nearby problem

probenecid, probie, probiotic, probit, probity, problem, problematic, problematics, problematize, problem page, pro bono

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

MORE ABOUT PROBLEM

What is a basic definition of problem?

A problem is a situation, question, or thing that causes difficulty, stress, or doubt. A problem is also a question raised to inspire thought. In mathematics, a problem is a statement or equation that requires a solution. Problem has a few other senses as a noun and an adjective.

A problem is a thing or event that causes you to wonder, cry, panic, or get angry. Life is full of problems that we try our best to handle. Something that involves problems or resembles a problem is said to be problematic.

  • Real-life examples: A clogged toilet is an annoying problem. A rock in your shoe is often just a small problem. An international war is a big problem that causes many other problems for a large number of people.
  • Used in a sentence: I need to pass this final exam or I am going to have a big problem with the grade for this class! 

Problem is used in this same sense as an adjective to mean something is unruly or difficult to handle.

  • Real-life examples: A problem car doesn’t run well. A problem school has a lot of difficulties that need to be solved. A problem child is someone who is considered rowdy or unruly.
  • Used in a sentence: Instead of labeling someone a “problem child,” we should try to understand why the child acts the way they do. 

A problem is a question or puzzle that is intended to be solved or to be deeply thought about.

  • Real-life examples: Your teacher may present a problem to the class so you can use what you’ve learned to solve it. Scientists present problems to other scientists so they can work together to think about them and discover new information.
  • Used in a sentence: Ivan managed to solve the problem of how to separate the rocks and the sand. 

In math, a problem is a mathematical statement that lacks a solution (answer) that a student or testee is expected to provide. This sense is nearly always specifically phrased as a “math problem.” These kinds of problems are frequently a source of pain and misery to math students.

  • Real-life examples: Examples of math problems include “2 + 2 = ?” and “3x + 2y = 30. x = 4. Solve for y.”
  • Used in a sentence: The math exam consisted of 100 problems that ranged in difficulty. 

Where does problem come from?

The first records of problem come from around 1350. It comes from the Greek próblēma, meaning “something thrown or put forward.”  It is a noun made by combining the Greek prefix pro- and the verb bállein, meaning “to throw.”

Did you know … ?

How is problem used in real life?

Problem is a common word that people use to refer to things that cause stress or difficulty.

I think I will cause problems for the me of tomorrow

— latino heat (@Im_JeremyM) November 26, 2020

A1: we took a problem our school wanted to talk thru. We then presented the problem to a group. Answered clarifying questions. Then we were asked to sit and listen as the group discussed it. Very insightful to get varying perspectives from educators from other schools.#NYEDChat

— Tyler Arnold 🤙🏾 Dr. Ty (@tyarnold18) October 2, 2018

I’ve been working on math problems for 2 hours now and I’m still not done 😭 someone put me out of my misery please 😩

— eddy is a klee haver (@egbarbatos) November 28, 2020

Try using problem!

Which of the following words is NOT a synonym of problem?

A. difficulty
B. answer
C. trouble
D. issue

Words related to problem

complication, dilemma, dispute, headache, issue, obstacle, question, trouble, botheration, box, count, crunch, disagreement, doubt, hitch, mess, pickle, predicament, quandary, scrape

How to use problem in a sentence

  • We can now create video-game quality simulations to evaluate complex skills like creativity or problem-solving.

  • The competition will be an ersatz astronaut training program of sorts, including physical challenges, as well as puzzles and problem-solving tasks, as well as emotionally challenging scenarios, according to Deadline.

  • Lindsey Graham has changed after 25 years in Washington into someone who puts his political fortunes ahead of problem-solving.

  • When you have armed soldiers on the streets, I think, as a public affairs officer, that’s a perception problem in and of itself.

  • The problem in Venezuela is not the oil, it’s the political system.

  • Several times, either because they forgot or they had a technical problem, they connected directly, and we could see them.

  • Every once in a while, they act swiftly and acknowledge the problem.

  • Part of the problem is the mandate of the war and the means with which the U.S. is fighting it do not match up.

  • The third problem is the evidence of corroborating witnesses.

  • But this physical involvement, or lack of it, is only part of the problem.

  • And now let me come to the second problem we opened up in connection with college education—the problem of its extension.

  • No man can believe it who tests it by his reason in the same way in which he would test any modern problem.

  • But the essential problem of to-day is to know how far we are to depart from its principles.

  • We notice that more attention is given to the problem of placing a feature than to that of making a likeness of it.

  • But the West is not in its essence a time problem; there, they can wait—next week—next month.

British Dictionary definitions for problem


noun

  1. any thing, matter, person, etc, that is difficult to deal with, solve, or overcome
  2. (as modifier)a problem child

a puzzle, question, etc, set for solution

maths a statement requiring a solution usually by means of one or more operations or geometric constructions

(modifier) designating a literary work that deals with difficult moral questionsa problem play

Word Origin for problem

C14: from Late Latin problēma, from Greek: something put forward; related to proballein to throw forwards, from pro- ² + ballein to throw

Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Idioms and Phrases with problem

The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

prob·lem

 (prŏb′ləm)

n.

1. A question to be considered, solved, or answered: math problems.

2.

a. A situation, matter, or person that is hard to deal with or understand: was having problems breathing; considered the main problem to be his boss. See Usage Note at dilemma.

b. A personal matter that causes one difficulty or needs to be dealt with: felt her tyrannical boss had deep-seated problems.

3. A misgiving, objection, or complaint: I have a problem with his cynicism.

adj.

1. Difficult to deal with or control: a problem child.

2. Dealing with a moral or social problem: a problem play.

Idiom:

no problem

1. Used to express confirmation of or compliance with a request.

2. Used to acknowledge an expression of gratitude.


[Middle English probleme, from Old French, from Latin problēma, problēmat-, from Greek, from proballein, to throw before, put forward : pro-, before; see pro-2 + ballein, blē-, to throw; see gwelə- in Indo-European roots.]

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

problem

(ˈprɒbləm)

n

1.

a. any thing, matter, person, etc, that is difficult to deal with, solve, or overcome

b. (as modifier): a problem child.

2. a puzzle, question, etc, set for solution

3. (Mathematics) maths a statement requiring a solution usually by means of one or more operations or geometric constructions

4. (Literary & Literary Critical Terms) (modifier) designating a literary work that deals with difficult moral questions: a problem play.

[C14: from Late Latin problēma, from Greek: something put forward; related to proballein to throw forwards, from pro-2 + ballein to throw]

Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014

prob•lem

(ˈprɒb ləm)
n.

1. any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty.

2. a question proposed for solution or discussion.

3. Math. a statement requiring a solution, usu. by means of a mathematical operation or geometric construction.

adj.

4. difficult to train or guide; unruly: a problem child.

5. Literature. dealing with difficult choices: a problem play.

Idioms:

no problem, (used as a conventional reply to a request or to an expression of gratitude): “Thanks a lot.” “No problem.”

[1350–1400; Middle English probleme < Latin problēma < Greek próblēma orig., obstacle =probállein to throw or lay before (pro- pro-2 + bállein to throw) + -ma n. suffix of result]

Random House Kernerman Webster’s College Dictionary, © 2010 K Dictionaries Ltd. Copyright 2005, 1997, 1991 by Random House, Inc. All rights reserved.

problem

The noun problem has two common meanings.

1. an unsatisfactory situation

A problem is an unsatisfactory situation that needs to be dealt with.

They discussed the problem of bullying in schools.

You can say that someone has a problem or has problems.

We have a problem with our car.

They are having financial problems at the moment.

You can also say that someone has problems doing something.

Many people are having problems paying their rent.

The company has problems finding suitably qualified staff.

Be Careful!
Don’t say that someone ‘has problems to do’ something. Don’t say, for example, ‘Many people are having problems to pay their rent‘.

2. ‘reason’

Don’t use ‘problem’ with why when you are explaining why a situation has occurred. Don’t say, for example, ‘The problem why he couldn’t come is that he is ill‘. You say ‘The reason why he couldn’t come is that he is ill’.

The reason why the project failed is lack of money.

Collins COBUILD English Usage © HarperCollins Publishers 1992, 2004, 2011, 2012

ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend:

Noun 1. problem - a state of difficulty that needs to be resolvedproblem — a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved; «she and her husband are having problems»; «it is always a job to contact him»; «urban problems such as traffic congestion and smog»

difficulty — a condition or state of affairs almost beyond one’s ability to deal with and requiring great effort to bear or overcome; «grappling with financial difficulties»

race problem — a social and political problem caused by conflict between races occupying the same or adjacent regions

balance-of-payments problem — an economic problem caused by payments for imports being greater than receipts for exports

2. problem — a question raised for consideration or solution; «our homework consisted of ten problems to solve»

question, head — the subject matter at issue; «the question of disease merits serious discussion»; «under the head of minor Roman poets»

mystifier, puzzle, puzzler, teaser — a particularly baffling problem that is said to have a correct solution; «he loved to solve chessmate puzzles»; «that’s a real puzzler»

case — a problem requiring investigation; «Perry Mason solved the case of the missing heir»

homework problem — a problem that students are assigned to do outside of class

Gordian knot — any very difficult problem; insoluble in its own terms

koan — a paradoxical anecdote or a riddle that has no solution; used in Zen Buddhism to show the inadequacy of logical reasoning

pons asinorum — a problem that severely tests the ability of an inexperienced person

rebus — a puzzle where you decode a message consisting of pictures representing syllables and words

3. problem - a source of difficultyproblem — a source of difficulty; «one trouble after another delayed the job»; «what’s the problem?»

difficulty — a factor causing trouble in achieving a positive result or tending to produce a negative result; «serious difficulties were encountered in obtaining a pure reagent»

pressure point — where problems or difficulties are likely to occur; «a key pressure point in the controversy was the building permit»

can of worms — a source of unpredictable trouble and complexity

growing pains — problems that arise in enlarging an enterprise (especially in the early stages)

hydra — trouble that cannot be overcome by a single effort because of its many aspects or its persistent and pervasive quality; «we may be facing a hydra that defies any easy solution»

matter — a problem; «is anything the matter?»

Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2012 Princeton University, Farlex Inc.

problem

noun

1. difficulty, trouble, dispute, plight, obstacle, dilemma, headache (informal), disagreement, complication, predicament, quandary, turf war (informal) the economic problems of the inner city

adjective

1. difficult, disturbed, troublesome, unruly, delinquent, uncontrollable, intractable, recalcitrant, intransigent, unmanageable, disobedient, ungovernable, refractory, maladjusted Sometimes a problem child is placed in a special school.

Proverbs
«A problem shared is a problem halved»

Collins Thesaurus of the English Language – Complete and Unabridged 2nd Edition. 2002 © HarperCollins Publishers 1995, 2002

problem

noun

A situation that presents difficulty, uncertainty, or perplexity:

The American Heritage® Roget’s Thesaurus. Copyright © 2013, 2014 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Translations

problém

problemopgave

problemo

harjutuskitsikusküsimusmõistatusmure

مشکل

ongelma

problem

bajfeladatgondprobléma

dæmivandamál

問題

문제

problemiškas

problēmauzdevumsgrūti audzināms bērns

problémový

problemtežava

problemпроблем

problem

ปัญหา

vấn đề

Collins Spanish Dictionary — Complete and Unabridged 8th Edition 2005 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1971, 1988 © HarperCollins Publishers 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2005

Collins English/French Electronic Resource. © HarperCollins Publishers 2005

problem

nProblem nt; (Math: as school exercise) → Aufgabe f; (= problematic area)Problematik f; what’s the problem?wo fehlt’s?; he’s got a drink(ing) problemer trinkt (zu viel); to have no problem with somethingkein Problem or keine Schwierigkeiten mit etw haben, etw nicht problematisch finden; I had no problem in getting the moneyich habe das Geld ohne Schwierigkeiten bekommen; no problem! (inf)kein Problem!; the whole problem of modernizationdie ganze Modernisierungsproblematik; problem areaProblembereich m


problem

:

problem family

nProblemfamilie f

problem page

nProblemseite f

problem play

nProblemstück nt

problem-solving

nProblemlösung f; problem skillsProblemlösungsfähigkeit f

Collins German Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged 7th Edition 2005. © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1980 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2007

Collins Italian Dictionary 1st Edition © HarperCollins Publishers 1995

problem

(ˈprobləm) noun

1. a difficulty; a matter about which it is difficult to decide what to do. Life is full of problems; (also adjective) a problem child.

2. a question to be answered or solved. mathematical problems.

ˌprobleˈmatic(al) (-ˈmӕ-) adjective

Kernerman English Multilingual Dictionary © 2006-2013 K Dictionaries Ltd.

problem

مُشْكِلَة problém problem Problem πρόβλημα problema ongelma problème problem problema 問題 문제 probleem problem problem problema проблема problem ปัญหา sorun vấn đề 问题

Multilingual Translator © HarperCollins Publishers 2009

prob·lem

n. problema; cuestión; trastorno;

___ solvingsolución de ___ -s.

English-Spanish Medical Dictionary © Farlex 2012

  • No problem
  • There’s a problem with your fax (US)
    There is a problem with your fax (UK)
  • There’s a problem with the room

Collins Multilingual Translator © HarperCollins Publishers 2009

English-Spanish/Spanish-English Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.

Meaning Problem

What does Problem mean? Here you find 27 meanings of the word Problem. You can also add a definition of Problem yourself

1

0

 
0

In IT, the unknown underlying cause of one or more incidents.

2

0

 
0

Problem

late 14c., «a difficult question proposed for solution,» from Old French problème (14c.) and directly from Latin problema, from Greek problema «a task, that which is proposed, a questi [..]

3

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0

Problem

 in mathematics a problem is a question which needs a mathematical solution. • problems may be written in words or using numbers and variables. • problem solving includes examining the question t [..]

4

0

 
0

Problem

A question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution. An intricate unsettled issue which is a source of perplexity, distress, or vexation, and that may be difficult to understand or accept. [D031 [..]

5

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0

Problem

Term often used synonymously with condition

6

0

 
0

Problem

a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved; &amp;quot;she and her husband are having problems&amp;quot;; &amp;quot;it is always a job to contact him&amp;quot;; &amp;quot;urban [..]

7

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0

Problem

a question that is difficult to answer or decide

8

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0

Problem

A situation which is generally uncomfortable, or otherwise undesirable. I always seem to have several — how about you?

9

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0

Problem

oyfgabe

10

0

 
0

Problem

A problem in physics involves process(es) to find a physical quantity.

11

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0

Problem

Something that needs to be solved. Problems are usually questions that scientists ask about science topics.

12

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Problem

Any issue that can be improved cost effectively.

13

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Problem

(n) a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved(n) a question raised for consideration or solution(n) a source of difficulty

14

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0

Problem

Solving — Ability of the individual to bring cognitive processes to the consideration of how to accomplish a task. [Click Here To Return To List]

15

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Problem

Solving Skill — Ability to consider the probable factors that can influence the outcome of each of various solutions to a problem, and to select the most advantageous solution. Individuals with defici [..]

16

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0

Problem

A question, matter, situation, or person that is perplexing or difficult to figure out, handle, or resolve. Problems, like questions, can be divided into many types. Each has a (particular) logic. See [..]

17

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0

Problem

SOLVING — ability of the individual to bring cognitive processes to the consideration of how to accomplish a task.     

18

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0

Problem

Situations affecting a significant number of people, that are believed to be sources of difficulty or threaten the stability of the community, and that require Programs of amelioration.

19

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0

Problem

issue, challenge, complication

20

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0

Problem

Unclean-URLs — Solution: URL rewrites Problem: Session IDs — Solution: Blocked via robots.txt, URL normalization Problem: duplicate content — Solution: URL normalization, Meta robots [..]

21

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0

Problem

Root cause of one or more incidents.

22

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0

Problem

A recurring set of related harmful events in a community that members of the public expect the police to address.

23

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0

Problem

A liability, someone likely to be whacked. Usage, from the trial:

24

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0

Problem

A problem is a cause of one or more incidents. The cause is not usually known at the time a problem record is created and the problem management process is responsible for further investigation.

25

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Problem

A difficulty that has to be resolved or dealt with.

(She’s leaving because she faced numerous problems to do with racism.)

*fi|probleemi, (vaikeus)
* French: (problème,m)
* Galician: (problema,m [..]

26

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0

Problem

problem

27

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Problem

Natural or artificial (especially at a wall or when bouldering) layout of holds presenting an obstacle between you and the top. Usually requires more than brute force to overcome.

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