problems

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'problems' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to any difficulties or issues you may be facing. Example: I'm having a lot of problems trying to get this project finished in time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But problems remain.

The New York Times

They have had enough of career politicians in three parties who don't even understand the problems they face in their everyday lives.

The Guardian

This can cause problems.

The New York Times

He had no problems.

The Guardian

As always if you have any problems posting a comment, or would prefer to comment anonymously, email us at [email protected] and we'll add your views to the thread.

The Guardian

Midway through construction, however, financial problems caused the project to grind to a halt.

The Guardian - Music

"Reforming severance pay arrangements and addressing these problems of the past have been a priority for me from day one as director general," Hall said.

The Guardian

It found 5% of those surveyed had sought help for mental health problems.

The Guardian - Sport

For the north's economic problems do not stem from a lack of tech-startups or an inability to cross the Pennines at lightning-quick speed; they are borne of successive crises of capitalism, each of which leaving behind their own uncompromising legacy.

The Guardian

So while it's certain that the problems haven't really changed, nor have the solutions if either of these flagship announcements are anything to go by.

The Guardian

As I met world leaders at the G20 in Brisbane, the problems were plain to see.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "problems", be specific about the nature and scope of the difficulty to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "problems" vaguely. Always provide enough context to clarify what specific issues you're addressing. Instead of saying, "We have problems," specify, "We have problems with the budget allocation."

Linguistic Context

The word "problems" functions primarily as a plural noun, referring to multiple difficulties, issues, or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "problems" is a versatile and frequently used plural noun to denote difficulties or issues. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts. To enhance clarity, always provide specific details about the nature and scope of the "problems" being discussed. While "problems" enjoys widespread use in news and media, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal settings. Consider alternatives like "difficulties" or "issues" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficulties

Emphasizes the state or quality of being hard to deal with or understand; broader in scope.

troubles

A more general term for difficulties or worries.

issues

Highlights specific points of concern or debate; often used in formal settings.

challenges

Focuses on the stimulating or testing nature of a difficulty; often implies a need for effort.

complications

Indicates that something is complex or involved, potentially making it difficult to resolve.

predicaments

Implies a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation.

setbacks

Highlights delays or reverses in progress.

obstacles

Emphasizes things that block progress or stand in the way.

crises

Denotes a time of intense difficulty, trouble, or danger.

mishaps

Refers to minor accidents or unlucky events.

FAQs

How can I use "problems" in a sentence?

You can use "problems" to refer to difficulties or issues that need to be addressed. For example, "The company is facing several financial problems." or "We need to find solutions to these problems".

What are some alternatives to saying "problems"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "difficulties", "issues", or "challenges".

Which is correct: "the problem is" or "the problems are"?

The correct form depends on whether you're referring to a single issue or multiple issues. Use "the problem is" for a single issue and "the problems are" for multiple issues.

What's the difference between "problems" and "dilemmas"?

"Problems" generally refer to difficulties that need to be resolved, while "dilemmas" involve a choice between two or more options, none of which may be entirely satisfactory.