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n. 1. A question to be considered, solved, or answered: math problems. 2. a. A situation, matter, or person that is hard to deal with or understand: was having problems breathing; considered the main problem to be his boss. See Usage Note at dilemma. b. A personal matter that causes one difficulty or needs to be dealt with: felt her tyrannical boss had deep-seated problems. 3. A misgiving, objection, or complaint: I have a problem with his cynicism. adj. Idiom: 1. Difficult to deal with or control: a problem child. 2. Dealing with a moral or social problem: a problem play. no problem 1. Used to express confirmation of or compliance with a request. 2. Used to acknowledge an expression of gratitude. [Middle English probleme, from Old French, from Latin problēma, problēmat-, from Greek, from proballein, to throw before, put forward : pro-, before; see PRO-2 + ballein, blē-, to throw; see gwelə- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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