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problem
[prob-luhm]
noun
any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty.
Synonyms: , ,Antonyms:a question proposed for solution or discussion.
Synonyms: , ,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.
problem
/ ˈɒə /
noun
any thing, matter, person, etc, that is difficult to deal with, solve, or overcome
( 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 questions
a problem play
Other 51Թ Forms
- subproblem noun
51Թ History and Origins
Origin of problem1
51Թ History and Origins
Origin of problem1
Idioms and Phrases
no problem,
(used as a conventional reply to a request or to express confirmation or affirmation).
Sure, no problem, I can do that right away.
(used as a conventional reply to an expression of gratitude or thanks).
No problem, I’m glad I could help!
Example Sentences
“If I thought things were getting out of control,” the GOP candidate told Time magazine, “I would have no problem using the military.”
Sometimes getting to the ground has been the problem for him, however.
"Then if you have some problems, no, that is not my problem to understand. I am the head coach, I am not a mannequin."
It also highlights a shift, as Greenland's leaders consolidate relations with Denmark and the EU, "because we have to have allies in these problems," says Kaj Kleist, alluding to US pressure.
She’s aware that Quintana was raised in a home where alcohol was a constant accessory and sometimes a visible problem.
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When To Use
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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
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