Noun A1 — Beginner /ˈprɒbləm/

Problem — Definition, Examples & Pronunciation

A difficulty or obstacle that needs a solution — one of the most essential words in English.

Quick Definition

A problem is a situation, person, or thing that is difficult to deal with or that causes trouble. It can also be a question or puzzle that requires an answer or solution.

What Does Problem Mean?

Problem comes from Greek problema (a task put forward, a question proposed) via Latin. In modern English it is one of the most frequent nouns, appearing in every register from casual conversation to academic writing.

Key collocations: have a problem, solve a problem, cause a problem, deal with a problem, face a problem, a big/serious/major problem. Note that in informal British English, "No problem!" functions as a response to thanks, equivalent to "You're welcome."

Compare problem with issue (more neutral, used in formal/professional contexts) and challenge (suggests the difficulty can be overcome positively). In everyday speech, these three words are often interchangeable, but tone and register differ.

Word in Use

SentenceUsage note
We need to solve this problem before the deadline.solve a problem — most common collocation
The traffic is a real problem in this city.describing a persistent difficulty
She finished the maths problem in two minutes.problem = puzzle or exercise

Common Mistakes

Watch Out For

I have problems with understand the grammar.

I have problems with understanding the grammar. (preposition + gerund)

She made a big problem at the meeting.

She caused a big problem at the meeting. (cause, not make)

Related Words

result reason support issue challenge difficulty

Practise This Word

Flash Cards Wordsearch Quiz

Frequently Asked Questions about “problem”

What does problem mean?
A problem is a situation that is difficult, unwanted, or needs to be resolved: 'We have a problem with the heating system.' It can also be a puzzle or question that requires a solution: 'a maths problem'. In informal British English, 'no problem' means 'you are welcome' or 'that is fine'.
What is the difference between problem and issue?
Problem suggests something negative that needs fixing: 'There is a problem with your password.' Issue is more neutral and often used in professional or formal contexts: 'We need to address several key issues.' In everyday speech, issue can sound more polite than problem, which is why many people prefer it in business settings.
How do you use problem in a sentence?
Common patterns: 'have a problem with something', 'solve/fix a problem', 'deal with a problem', 'a problem arises'. You can say 'the problem is that...' to introduce an explanation. Avoid 'make a problem' — use 'cause a problem' instead.
What is the CEFR level of problem?
Problem is an A1 word — one of the most basic and frequent words in English. It appears in nearly every domain of everyday life, from technology and health to relationships and work. Mastering it at A1 gives you a building block for hundreds of common expressions.
What are synonyms for problem?
Synonyms include: issue, difficulty, challenge, obstacle, complication, dilemma, trouble, setback, and snag. For a maths/logic problem, you can say puzzle, question, or exercise. The right synonym depends on the formality and the severity of the situation.
How do you pronounce problem?
Problem is pronounced /ˈprɒbləm/ in British English and /ˈprɑːbləm/ in American English. The stress is on the first syllable: PROB-lem. The second syllable is a weak schwa sound. Many learners add an extra vowel: 'pro-ba-lem' — avoid this.
What is the adjective form of problem?
The adjective form is 'problematic' (causing or constituting a problem): 'The situation is highly problematic.' You can also use 'problem' as a modifier: 'a problem child', 'a problem area', 'problem behaviour'. These compound nouns are very common in English.
Is problem countable or uncountable?
Problem is a countable noun: one problem, two problems, many problems. It is not used as an uncountable noun. You would not say 'much problem' — instead say 'many problems' or 'a lot of problems'. The indefinite article 'a' is always used with the singular: 'a problem'.
What does no problem mean in English?
'No problem' is an informal response to a request or thanks, meaning 'it was easy' or 'you are welcome': 'Thanks for your help!' — 'No problem!' It is very common in spoken English. In formal writing or speech, 'not at all', 'of course', or 'my pleasure' would be more appropriate.
How can I practise the word problem on LexFizz?
Try LexFizz's Flash Cards to practise problem and its key collocations (solve a problem, cause a problem, face a problem). The Vocabulary Quiz tests you on meaning in context, and the Wordsearch helps reinforce the spelling. As an A1 word, problem is a great starting point for beginner vocabulary building.