a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome, a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution

make a problem out of something, have bigger fish to fry, throw a spanner in the works

have a problem with, no problem, the problem is

Formal and Informal Expressions of problem

In different contexts, you can replace 'problem' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'issue, difficulty' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'trouble, hassle' is a commonplace synonym.

problem: Explore its Definition & Usage

problem Definition

1a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome
2a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution

Using problem: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "problem" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The problem of pollution needs to be addressed urgently.
Example
We have a problem with the budget.
Example
She has a drinking problem.
Example
The math problem was too difficult for me.

problem Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for problem

Antonyms for problem

Idioms Using problem

make a problem out of something
to make something seem more difficult or complicated than it really is
Example
He always makes a problem out of everything.
have bigger fish to fry
to have more important things to do or deal with
Example
I can't worry about that right now. I have bigger fish to fry.
throw a spanner in the works
to cause problems or difficulties that prevent something from happening in the way that was planned
Example
His sudden resignation threw a spanner in the works for the project.

Phrases with problem

have a problem with
to be unhappy about or opposed to something
Example
I have a problem with the way you are treating your employees.
no problem
used to say that something can be done or given without difficulty or that you are happy to do it
Example
Can you help me move this table? No problem!
the problem is
used to introduce a statement that explains why something is difficult or impossible to do
Example
The problem is that we don't have enough money to buy a new car.

Origins of problem

from Middle English 'probleme', from Old French 'probleme', via Latin from Greek 'problēma', from 'proballein' meaning 'to throw something forward'

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Summary: problem in Brief

The term 'problem' [ˈprɒbləm] refers to an unwelcome or harmful matter or situation that requires attention and resolution. It can also refer to a question or inquiry. Examples include 'The problem of pollution needs to be addressed urgently.' and 'She has a drinking problem.' Phrases like 'no problem' and idioms like 'have bigger fish to fry' are also common. 'Problem' can be formalized as 'issue' or 'difficulty,' or made informal as 'trouble' or 'hassle.'