problem

noun
UK: /ˈprɒbləm/
US: /ˈprɑːbləm/

  1. A situation that causes difficulties and that needs to be dealt with or solved.

    1. I have a problem with my car. [ ] [ ]
    2. The persistent problem of poverty requires innovative and collaborative solutions. [ ] [ ]

  2. A question to be answered or a calculation to be worked out.

    1. Solve this math problem quickly. [ ] [ ]
    2. The complex problem required advanced knowledge in both mathematics and physics. [ ] [ ]

  3. Something that is difficult to achieve or accomplish.

    1. Getting a visa can be a problem. [ ] [ ]
    2. Language barriers often pose a significant problem for international students. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

issue predicament difficulty challenge question enigma obstacle
problem transitive-verb

  1. To present a difficulty or obstacle.

    1. Broken computer problems my work. [ ] [ ]
    2. The lack of funding continues to problem the progress of the research project. [ ] [ ]
problem adjective

  1. Characterized by difficulties or causing trouble.

    1. This is a problem area. [ ] [ ]
    2. The problem employee was warned about his frequent absences from work. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "problem" in English means: A situation that causes difficulties and that needs to be dealt with or solved., A question to be answered or a calculation to be worked out., Something that is difficult to achieve or accomplish..

The phonetic transcription of "problem" is /ˈprɒbləm/ in British English and /ˈprɑːbləm/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "problem": issue, predicament, difficulty, challenge, question, enigma, obstacle.

Example usage of "problem": "I have a problem with my car.". More examples on the page.