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Problem: meaning, definitions and examples

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problem

 

[ˈprɒbləm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome.

Synonyms

challenge, complication, difficulty, issue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
problem

A general term used for any situation that needs a solution. Often used in both casual and formal settings.

  • We need to solve this problem quickly
  • This problem is affecting our project's timeline
issue

Often used to refer to a specific concern or topic that needs attention. Can be less severe than 'problem'. Used in both formal and informal settings.

  • There’s an issue with the network connectivity
  • We need to address the issue of office space
difficulty

Describes an obstacle that makes a task harder to accomplish. It focuses on the level of effort needed.

  • He had difficulty understanding the new software
  • There's a difficulty in finding qualified candidates for this role
complication

Refers to a situation that is causing additional difficulties, often making things more complex. Can have a negative connotation.

  • The project faced many complications due to the lack of resources
  • Her health condition led to several complications during the surgery
challenge

Often implies a situation that is difficult but also presents an opportunity for growth or achievement. Used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • Running a marathon was a big challenge for me
  • This new project will be a challenge, but I'm excited about it

Examples of usage

  • The region's financial problems
  • The problem of obesity in children is increasing
  • She has problems with her computer
Context #2 | Noun

computing

A matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome.

Synonyms

bug, error, glitch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
problem

A general issue or challenge that needs to be solved, which can be used in various situations such as technical difficulties, personal issues, or social challenges.

  • We have a problem with the server; it's not responding.
  • He has a problem with time management.
  • Environmental pollution is a major problem.
error

A mistake or incorrect action, often used to describe situations where something goes wrong due to human or technical faults. It can be used in various fields, including computing, academics, and daily life.

  • I made an error in my calculations.
  • The system displayed an unexpected error message.
  • There was a spelling error in the document.
bug

A defect or flaw in software or a system that causes it to produce an incorrect or unexpected result, often used in the context of programming and software development.

  • There's a bug in the code that crashes the application.
  • The developers are working hard to fix the bugs in the new update.
glitch

A small, temporary malfunction or irregularity, usually in electronic devices, systems, or software. It often implies a minor, short-lived issue rather than a severe one.

  • There was a glitch in the system that caused the video to freeze.
  • The screen has a glitch that makes the image flicker occasionally.

Examples of usage

  • The program encountered a problem and crashed
Context #3 | Verb

to have difficulty

Have difficulty with something.

Synonyms

encounter difficulties, have difficulty, struggle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
problem

Use this word when referring to a situation that needs a solution or is causing trouble.

  • We need to find a solution to this problem
  • She has a problem with her computer
struggle

This word often reflects continuous effort against difficulties and has a more intense, emotional element.

  • He struggled to finish the marathon
  • She is struggling with her workload
have difficulty

Use this phrase when someone is finding it hard to do something.

  • He has difficulty understanding math
  • She had difficulty finding her keys
encounter difficulties

This phrase is appropriate when you meet or come across problems typically expected or anticipated.

  • We may encounter difficulties during the project
  • They encountered difficulties on their way back home

Examples of usage

  • I'm having problems with my new computer
  • She's always had a problem with authority

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word has roots in the Greek word 'problema,' meaning something thrown forward or presented, which hints at a challenge that needs addressing.
  • Originally appearing in English in the late 14th century, its meaning has evolved to describe various types of dilemmas.
  • The word 'problem' has been used in philosophical contexts for centuries, particularly in discussions about ethics and logic.

Psychology

  • Problem-solving is a fundamental human skill linked to cognitive development and is often used to measure intelligence.
  • People tend to experience anxiety when faced with problems, but successfully solving one can lead to increased self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Research shows that our brain processes problems more effectively when we're in a good mood, highlighting the importance of emotional state on problem-solving abilities.

Education

  • In educational settings, teachers often encourage students to engage with problems as a vital part of the learning process, fostering critical thinking.
  • Mathematics is often seen as a discipline centered around problems, with students learning to identify, formulate, and solve them through various strategies.
  • In problem-based learning, students work collaboratively to solve real-world issues, enhancing both engagement and comprehension.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'Let me solve your problem!' is a common trope in movies and television, often indicating a character stepping up to help another.
  • Music often addresses problems and conflicts, with many hit songs discussing love challenges, social issues, and personal dilemmas.
  • Video games frequently feature levels or missions based on solving a problem or mystery, contributing to their engaging gameplay.

Science

  • In scientific research, identifying a problem is the first step toward developing hypotheses and conducting experiments.
  • Environmental issues are often referred to as planetary problems, encompassing challenges like climate change and habitat destruction.
  • Problem-solving methodologies such as the scientific method are critical in various fields, guiding researchers in finding solutions to both simple and complex challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "problem" in other languages:

🇵🇹 problema

🇮🇳 समस्या (samasya)

🇩🇪 Problem

🇮🇩 masalah

🇺🇦 проблема

🇵🇱 problem

🇯🇵 問題 (mondai)

🇫🇷 problème

🇪🇸 problema

🇹🇷 sorun

🇰🇷 문제 (munje)

🇸🇦 مشكلة (mushkila)

🇨🇿 problém

🇸🇰 problém

🇨🇳 问题 (wèntí)

🇸🇮 problem

🇮🇸 vandamál

🇰🇿 мәселе (mәsele)

🇬🇪 პრობლემა (problema)

🇦🇿 problem

🇲🇽 problema

Word Frequency Rank

With position #296, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.