problem Hear it!

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problem definition

prob·lem (präb′ləm)

noun

  1. a question proposed for solution or consideration
  2. a question, matter, situation, or person that is perplexing or difficult
  3. Math. a proposition requiring solution by mathematical operations, constructions, etc.

Etymology: ME probleme < MFr < L problema < Gr problēma < proballein, to throw forward < pro-, forward + ballein, to throw, drive: see pro- & ball

adjective

  1. presenting a problem of human conduct or social relationships a problem novel
  2. very difficult to deal with; esp., very difficult to train or discipline a problem child
problem Idioms

have a problem with

Informal
  1. to be unable to understand or do she has a problem with French verbs
  2. to disagree with; disapprove of I have a problem with your plans to paint the kitchen purple

no problem

Slang
yes; I will do what you ask: used in response to a request

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Alternate definitions:

idioms problem idiom

problem Synonyms

problem

n.

  1. A difficulty

    dilemma, quandary, obstacle; see difficulty 1, 2, predicament.

  2. A question to be solved

    query, intricacy, enigma; see puzzle 2.


Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

problem Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • solve: They don't really solve the problem of getting users up on the new OS.

Adjective modifier

  • mental: The people they work with may be ill or disabled or have physical or mental health problems.

Modifies a noun

  • domain: The way he sees it, the language is a mess because the problem domain -- real life -- is also a mess.

Noun used with modifier

  • health: Diabetes is becoming a major health problem in many parts of the world.
problem usage examples (more)

The word usage examples above have been gathered from various sources to reflect current and historical usage. They do not represent the opinions of YourDictionary.com.

problem quotes

I have yet to see any problem, however complicated, which, when you looked at it in the right way, did not become still more complicated.

-Anderson, Poul William

He isjoyful with swift movement when a mouse sticks in his sharp paw. I too am joyful when I understand a dearly loved difficult problem.

-Anonymous

There isno such thing as a problem without a gift for you in its hands.You seek problems because you need their gifts.

-Bach, Richard

problem quotes (more)

Webster's New World Dictionary of Quotations Copyright © 2005 by Chambers Harrap Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Published by Wiley, Hoboken, NJ. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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MLA Style

"problem." Webster's New World College Dictionary. 2009

  • Your Dictionary. 4 July 2009
  • <www.yourdictionary.com/problem>

APA Style

problem. (2009). In Webster's New World College Dictionary

  • Retrieved July 4th, 2009, from www.yourdictionary.com/problem

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