problem
word
/ˈpɹɑbɫəm/
PRAH-bluhm
/pɹˈɒbləm/
PROB-luhm
Definition
A situation, thing, or person that causes difficulty or needs to be dealt with or solved.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in everyday and formal speech. Can refer to personal issues, technical difficulties, or abstract challenges. Often appears in phrases like 'solve a problem', 'face a problem', 'a serious problem'. Not to be confused with 'trouble' which can imply more emotional or physical distress.
Spanish: problemaPortuguese (BR): problemaPortuguese (PT): problemaChinese (Simplified): 问题Chinese (Traditional): 問題Hindi: समस्याArabic: مشكلةBengali: সমস্যাRussian: проблемаJapanese: 問題Vietnamese: vấn đềKorean: 문제Turkish: problem - sorunUrdu: مسئلہIndonesian: masalah
Example Sentences
We’ve got a problem with the car — it won’t start.
natural
She’s been struggling with a personal problem lately.
natural
I have a problem with my computer.
basic
We need to find a solution to this problem.
basic
The teacher helped me with a math problem.
basic
Don't worry, we can fix this problem quickly.
natural