problem

Pronunciation: /ˈprɒbləm/

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Definition of problem

noun

1a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome:they have financial problems the problem of ageism in Hollywood
a thing that is difficult to achieve:motivation of staff can also be a problem

2 Physics & Mathematics an inquiry starting from given conditions to investigate or demonstrate a fact, result, or law.
Geometry a proposition in which something has to be constructed. Compare with theorem.
(in chess) an arrangement of pieces in which the solver has to achieve a specified result.

Phrases

have a problem with: disagree with or have an objection to:I have no problem with shopping on Sundays
no problem: used to express one’s agreement or acquiescence:‘Can you come over here right away?’ ‘No problem.’
that's your (or his, her, etc.) problem: used to express one’s lack of interest in or sympathy with another person’s problems:he’d made a mistake but that was his problem

Origin:

late Middle English (originally denoting a riddle or a question for academic discussion): from Old French probleme, via Latin from Greek problēma, from proballein 'put forth', from pro 'before' + ballein 'to throw'

problem in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of problem in the US English dictionary

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Other

problem

noun

Phrases

have a problem with

no problem

that's your (or his, her, etc.) problem

Origin:

problem in other Oxford dictionaries

Nearby words

More results for problem

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