Problems: meaning, definitions and examples

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problems

[ˈprɒbləmz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in daily life

Difficulties or challenges that need to be solved or overcome.

Synonyms

challenges, difficulties, issues.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
problems	Typically used in a general sense to describe any number of situations that cause trouble, concern, or distress. Problems can be major or minor and cover a wide range of scenarios, both personal and professional. I'm having problems with my computer. She has financial problems that need attention.
issues	Usually refers to specific, often smaller-scale problems that need addressing or resolving. Issues can be technical, social, or personal, and the term is frequently used in a professional context. We need to discuss the issues with our current plan. There are some technical issues with the website.
difficulties	Often used to refer to situations that cause trouble or require effort to manage. It suggests more of a struggle and can imply a sense of distress or hardship. They encountered difficulties while traveling abroad. He has difficulty understanding the new math concepts.
challenges	Commonly suggests obstacles or tasks that require effort, skill, or courage to overcome. Challenges often carry a more neutral or even positive connotation as they imply an opportunity for growth or achievement. Completing the marathon was a huge challenge for him. The team faced several challenges during the project.

Examples of usage

He faced many problems at work today.
Financial problems can cause stress and anxiety.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in mathematics

A mathematical question or exercise that requires a solution.

Synonyms

challenge, equation, puzzle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
problems	Used for general issues or difficulties that require a solution. It can be applied in both personal and professional settings. She has problems with time management at work. We need to address these problems before they get worse.
equation	Primarily used in mathematical or scientific contexts to represent a problem that requires a numerical or logical solution. He solved the complex equation in just a few minutes. Understanding this equation is key to figuring out the entire system.
puzzle	Refers to a game or activity designed to test ingenuity or knowledge. It can also mean a situation that is mysterious or difficult to understand. She loves solving crossword puzzles in her free time. The disappearance of the ancient artifact remains a puzzle to archaeologists.
challenge	Used for tasks or situations that are difficult but can be overcome with effort. Often has a positive connotation, implying growth or learning. Running a marathon was a huge challenge for him. Starting a new job can be a thrilling challenge.

Examples of usage

She solved the algebra problems quickly.
The students struggled with the geometry problems.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in computer science

An unexpected situation that arises during the execution of a program, preventing its normal operation.

Synonyms

bug, error, issue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
problems	General reference to difficulties or challenges in various situations. She is facing some personal problems. The project encountered several problems during its development.
bug	Technical issues, usually related to software or hardware malfunctions. The new software update has a bug causing it to crash. They are working to fix the bug in the code.
error	Mistakes or inaccuracies, can be used in technical and non-technical contexts. There was an error in the calculations. The error message appeared on the screen.
issue	Concerns or topics that need discussion or resolution, can also refer to problems but in a more neutral tone. There are several issues we need to address in the meeting. The website is experiencing technical issues.

Examples of usage

The software engineer fixed the coding problem.
The system crashed due to a serious problem.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'problema', meaning something thrown forward, or set before someone.
In Latin, 'problematicus' referred to something causing confusion or difficulty, which influenced its modern meaning.

Psychology

Problem-solving is a crucial skill that is linked to cognitive development, allowing individuals to analyze situations.
Psychologists often categorize problems as well-structured (clear solutions) or ill-structured (unclear solutions), impacting how people approach them.

Pop Culture

Film and literature often depict characters facing problems, showcasing their growth or transformation when overcoming these challenges.
The phrase 'first world problems' became popular to describe minor issues faced in wealthy societies, often discussed humorously.

Education

In education, students are encouraged to address real-life problems through project-based learning, enhancing engagement and practical understanding.
Critical thinking and problem-solving are key skills emphasized in many modern educational curriculums worldwide.

Mathematics

In math, problems are often categorized into types such as algebraic, geometric, or word problems, each requiring specific methods and techniques.
Solving math problems can improve logical reasoning and analytical skills, essential both in academics and everyday life.

Translations

Translations of the word "problems" in other languages:

🇵🇹 problemas

🇮🇳 समस्याएँ

🇩🇪 Probleme

🇮🇩 masalah

🇺🇦 проблеми

🇵🇱 problemy

🇯🇵 問題 (もんだい)

🇫🇷 problèmes

🇪🇸 problemas

🇹🇷 sorunlar

🇰🇷 문제 (문제)

🇸🇦 مشاكل

🇨🇿 problémy

🇸🇰 problémy

🇨🇳 问题 (wèntí)

🇸🇮 problemi

🇮🇸 vandamál

🇰🇿 мәселелер

🇬🇪 პრობლემები

🇦🇿 problemlər

🇲🇽 problemas

Word Frequency Rank

With position #333, 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.

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330 history
331 class
332 short
333 problems
334 reason
335 real
336 enough
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