How Do You Spell PROBLEM?

Pronunciation: [pɹˈɒbləm] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "problem" is /ˈprɑbləm/. The first syllable is pronounced with the open back unrounded vowel /ɑ/. The second syllable has the short /ə/ sound known as the schwa, which is also the most common vowel sound in English. The word is spelled with a silent "b" in the middle, which is a characteristic of many English words. Overall, the phonetic transcription of "problem" emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the pronunciation of each individual sound in English words.

PROBLEM Meaning and Definition

  1. Problem: A problem refers to a challenging situation or an obstacle that hinders progress or causes difficulty. It is a matter or circumstance that requires a solution or resolution. Problems can arise from various areas of life, including personal, professional, academic, or societal domains.

    In essence, a problem is described as an issue that demands attention and requires critical thinking to find a suitable resolution. Problems are often characterized by their complexity, uncertainty, or negative consequences if left unresolved. They can manifest in different forms, such as practical problems that require a specific action or theoretical problems that demand intellectual analysis.

    A problem typically involves a discrepancy between the desired or expected state and the current or actual state. It prompts individuals or groups to seek ways to bridge this gap by identifying and implementing effective strategies or interventions. Problem-solving often involves the process of evaluating options, assessing risks and benefits, and making decisions to mitigate or overcome the challenges presented.

    Individuals employ various problem-solving techniques, such as logical reasoning, creativity, analytical thinking, or collaborative approaches, to tackle different problems. Effective problem-solving skills are essential in personal development, professional success, and societal advancement.

    In summary, a problem is a challenging situation or obstacle that requires attention and resolution. It entails a discrepancy between the current and desired state and calls for critical thinking and decision-making to navigate towards a satisfactory outcome.

  2. A question involving doubt or uncertainty proposed for solution; in geom., a proposition in which some operation or construction is required; in alg., a proposition which requires some unknown truth to be discovered or demonstrated; in logic, a proposition which, appearing neither absolutely true nor false, may consequently be asserted either in the affirmative or negative.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for PROBLEM *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for PROBLEM

Etymology of PROBLEM

The word problem has its roots in the Latin word problema, which in turn comes from the Ancient Greek word problema. The Greek problema originally referred to a task or a question that required thought and analysis to solve. It was derived from the verb proballein, which meant to throw forward or to propose. In Ancient Greek, problema referred to a mathematical problem or a proposition requiring logical solution. Over time, the meaning of the word broadened to encompass any difficulty, challenge, or obstacle that needed to be overcome or resolved, leading to its usage in the modern sense of the word problem.

Idioms with the word PROBLEM

  • no problem The idiom "no problem" is an informal response used to convey that a request or situation is not difficult or inconvenient, and can be easily accommodated.
  • cash flow problem The idiom "cash flow problem" refers to a financial situation in which a person or a business entity experiences a shortage or lack of funds in their day-to-day operations. It implies that there is an imbalance or a disruption in the flow of money, resulting in difficulties in meeting financial obligations such as paying bills, salaries, or debts.
  • work the problem The idiom "work the problem" means to thoroughly analyze and solve a specific issue or difficulty by addressing it systematically and methodically. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the task at hand and finding practical solutions instead of getting overwhelmed by the overall situation. This approach encourages individuals or teams to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable components and actively pursue resolutions.
  • root of the problem The idiom "root of the problem" refers to the underlying cause or source of an issue or difficulty. It represents the fundamental or central aspect that needs to be addressed or resolved in order to effectively alleviate or solve the problem at hand.
  • What's the problem? The idiom "What's the problem?" is used when someone wants to inquire about the issue or difficulty that someone else is facing. It implies a willingness to understand and help solve the problem.
  • (that causes) no problem The idiom "(that causes) no problem" means that there is no difficulty or complication associated with a particular situation, action, or request. It suggests that something can be easily handled, managed, or accommodated without causing any trouble or inconvenience.
  • a chicken-and-egg problem The idiom "a chicken-and-egg problem" refers to a situation where it is difficult to determine which came first, as each element or aspect relies on the other for its existence or occurrence. It implies a circular dependency where the cause and effect are mutually dependent and cannot be determined or resolved.
  • one-banana problem The idiom "one-banana problem" refers to a situation or issue that is relatively insignificant or trivial. It implies that the problem is so small that it could easily be solved or dealt with, similar to the simplicity of peeling and consuming a single banana.
  • a cash flow problem The idiom "a cash flow problem" refers to a situation where an individual, business, or organization does not have enough funds readily available to meet their financial obligations or to cover their expenses. It implies a temporary or ongoing difficulty in managing and maintaining a positive cash flow, often resulting in the inability to pay bills, debts, or other financial commitments.
  • problem child The idiom "problem child" refers to a person, thing, or situation that consistently causes difficulties or challenges. It commonly describes someone or something that is troublesome, disruptive, or hard to manage.
  • that's your, his, etc. problem The idiom "that's your, his, etc. problem" means that the issue or responsibility being referred to solely belongs to the person it is attributed to, and others should not be concerned or involved. It implies that the person is to deal with the consequences, difficulties, or challenges related to a particular situation.
  • first world problem The idiom "first world problem" refers to a minor or trivial issue that is typically experienced by individuals living in affluent, developed countries. It is used to highlight the contrast between the everyday struggles faced in developed nations, which are generally characterized by stable infrastructure, high quality of life, and access to resources, and the more significant challenges faced in less developed or impoverished regions of the world. This phrase is often used humorously or sarcastically to acknowledge and poke fun at the relative insignificance of certain problems in the grand scheme of things.
  • be not (one's) problem The idiom "be not one's problem" means that something or someone is not one's responsibility or concern. It indicates that an individual does not have to worry about or take responsibility for a particular situation or individual.
  • (I have) no problem with that. The idiom "(I have) no problem with that" means that one agrees with and accepts something without any objection or difficulty. It expresses a positive and cooperative attitude towards a particular situation or proposal.
  • a problem shared is a problem halved The idiom "a problem shared is a problem halved" means that discussing or sharing a problem with someone else can make it easier to handle or solve. The act of sharing the problem reduces its burden or difficulty, making it seem less overwhelming.
  • have an alcohol problem To "have an alcohol problem" means to suffer from alcohol addiction or dependency. It refers to a condition where an individual consumes alcohol excessively and regularly, leading to negative consequences in their personal life, relationships, work, or overall well-being. It implies that the person is unable to control or moderate their alcohol consumption, and it may have detrimental effects on their physical and mental health.
  • a whale of a bill/difference/problem etc. The idiom "a whale of a bill/difference/problem etc." refers to a situation or issue that is significant, immense, or of great magnitude. It suggests that the bill, difference, problem, etc., is exceptionally large or substantial, often beyond what was anticipated or expected. It is used to emphasize the size or significance of the matter being discussed.
  • have a weight problem The idiom "have a weight problem" typically refers to an individual who is dealing with ongoing issues related to their weight, usually implying that they are overweight or obese. It suggests that the person struggles with maintaining a healthy weight and may face challenges with dieting, exercise, or overall physical fitness.
  • do you have a problem with that? The idiom "do you have a problem with that?" is a rhetorical question commonly used to challenge or confront someone's disagreement, resistance, or opposition to a particular idea, decision, action, or situation. It typically implies that the person asking the question is confident in their stance and is ready to defend or assert their viewpoint if necessary.
  • have a problem with The idiom "have a problem with" is used to convey that someone feels negative emotions or experiences difficulty with a particular person, thing, or situation. It indicates a lack of agreement, discomfort, or dissatisfaction towards something.
  • contend with a problem The idiom "contend with a problem" means to deal with, confront, or tackle a difficult or challenging issue or obstacle. It implies actively engaging with the problem, making efforts to overcome it, or finding a way to solve it.
  • have a problem with sth/sb The idiom "have a problem with something/somebody" means to feel negatively or be displeased with something or someone. It refers to a situation in which someone experiences difficulty, disagreement, or dissatisfaction with a particular issue or person.
  • a chicken-and-egg situation, problem, etc. This idiom is used to describe a situation in which it is unclear which of two events or decisions is the cause and which is the effect, creating a dilemma where it is difficult to determine which came first. It implies a circular or self-referential problem that is difficult to solve due to its intertwined nature.

Similar spelling words for PROBLEM

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