problem Hear it!

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

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.

problem Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • solve: They don't really solve the problem of getting users up on the new OS.
  • cause: The fuel oil on the surface of the water was causing terrible problems for men waiting to be rescued.
  • tackle: In this essay I tackle the problem of solving every Sudoku puzzle.
  • resolve: We have always been told retaliation is not the key to resolving problems.
  • have: I've not had a problem in 200+ auctions.
  • address: We need to be more innovative in how we address the problem.

Adjective modifier

  • mental: The people they work with may be ill or disabled or have physical or mental health problems.
  • serious: Are there really serious problems with the law here?
  • major: Diabetes is becoming a major health problem in many parts of the world.
  • real: Maybe they're the real problem, not our way of life.
  • big: Perhaps the biggest problem from the book's age is the slightly stuffy approach.
  • common: Get advice on common health problems from the self-help guide.. .

Modifies a noun

  • domain: The way he sees it, the language is a mess because the problem domain -- real life -- is also a mess.
  • identification: We then proceeded from problem identification, onto diagnosis and risk assessment.

Noun used with modifier

  • health: Diabetes is becoming a major health problem in many parts of the world.
  • sight: We fight for equal rights for people with sight problems.
  • mobility: I am a psychologist who has MS and a moderate level of mobility problems.
  • debt: The charity dealt with 1.25 million new cases of debt problems in 2005 alone.
  • heart: One day it was heart problems, then hearing loss, then sight problems.
  • drug: As a tier 3/4 service they provide for the most severe and complex drug problems.