1 prob·lem
Pronounced:
/ˈprɑ:bləm/
Function:
nounInflected forms:
plural prob·lemsMeaning:
1 [count] : something that is difficult to deal with : something that is a source of trouble, worry, etc. ▪ Racism and sexism are major social problems. ▪ The company is having financial problems. ▪ She has a drug problem. [=she is addicted to drugs] ▪ He has chronic health/medical problems. ▪ She has a weight problem. [=her weight is not healthy] ▪ The mechanic fixed the problem with the car. ▪ There are a few problems with your argument. ▪ We have to find a way to solve this problem. ▪ She is bothered by family/personal/marriage problems. ▪ We didn't have any problems getting here. ▪ I have my own problems to deal with. ▪ Mosquitoes are a problem in the summer. ▪ When he drinks too much, he causes problems. ▪ The problem with you is that you're too stubborn. ▪ We would love to have a dog. The only problem is (that) [=the reason that would be difficult is] we don't have the time to take care of it. ▪ The fact that you're late is not my problem. [=I am not responsible for helping you deal with the problem of being late]
2 [singular] a : difficulty in understanding something ▪ I'm having a problem following your argument. b : a feeling of not liking or wanting to do something ▪ “We'll have to leave a little early.” “OK, I don't have a problem with that.” [=that doesn't bother me] ▪ “He says he won't go.” “What's his problem?” [=why is he being so unreasonable?]
3 [count] : a mathematical question to be solved ▪ a math problem ▪ Solve these problems for homework.
2 [singular] a : difficulty in understanding something ▪ I'm having a problem following your argument. b : a feeling of not liking or wanting to do something ▪ “We'll have to leave a little early.” “OK, I don't have a problem with that.” [=that doesn't bother me] ▪ “He says he won't go.” “What's his problem?” [=why is he being so unreasonable?]
3 [count] : a mathematical question to be solved ▪ a math problem ▪ Solve these problems for homework.
no problem also not a problem
informal —used to say that you are happy to do something or that you are not bothered by something ▪ “Thanks for your help.” “No problem.” ▪ “I'm sorry for interrupting you.” “No problem.” ▪ “Can you get this done by lunchtime?” “No problem.” ▪ “I would like to pay with my credit card.” “Not a problem.”