problem 1 of 2

problem

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun problem differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of problem are enigma, mystery, puzzle, and riddle. While all these words mean "something which baffles or perplexes," problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern.

problems created by high technology

In what contexts can enigma take the place of problem?

While the synonyms enigma and problem are close in meaning, enigma applies to utterance or behavior that is very difficult to interpret.

his suicide remains an enigma

When could mystery be used to replace problem?

Although the words mystery and problem have much in common, mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation.

the mystery of the stone monoliths

Where would puzzle be a reasonable alternative to problem?

The words puzzle and problem are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, puzzle applies to an enigma or problem that challenges ingenuity for its solution.

the thief's motives were a puzzle for the police

When might riddle be a better fit than problem?

In some situations, the words riddle and problem are roughly equivalent. However, riddle suggests an enigma or problem involving paradox or apparent contradiction.

the riddle of the reclusive pop star

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of problem
Noun
The staff is trained to address residents who show confused or problem behavior. San Diego Elder Law Center, sandiegouniontribune.com, 24 Apr. 2018 Many people might be surprised to learn that undocumented immigrants are not typically problem children. Ellen McGirt, Fortune, 5 Mar. 2017
Adjective
Both buildings have problems, but the city hall building in particular has raised issues because of its size, lack of handicapped accessibility, mold and asbestos problems, and use of lead paint, according to Johnson County Reporting. Taylor O’Connor 11, Kansas City Star, 11 July 2025 Whatever the specific parallels, the problem of how to recover from such assaults on the law and the polity remains vexing. Julia M. Klein, The Atlantic, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for problem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for problem
Noun
  • This creates both challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs navigating gray areas.
    Javier Hasse, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
  • But Maryland argues that its permit would need to be appealed through the state courts, which would involve filing a challenge at the appropriate circuit court — in this case in Worcester County.
    Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 20 July 2025
Noun
  • Hollinshead declined to answer the Idaho Statesman’s questions during a phone call, citing an ongoing investigation and need to wait for approval from the Elmore County Prosecutor’s Office.
    Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 14 July 2025
  • Submit your questions to us about metro Phoenix and Arizona for a chance to be chosen for the podcast.
    Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Otherwise, the 27-year-old’s immeasurable talent has been enough to compensate for the shortcomings of Red Bull’s car, which has proven troublesome since midway through last season.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 10 July 2025
  • Work will be done to improve a troublesome railroad crossing for motorists in the center of Mt. Juliet for the second time in about four years.
    Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • The Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation into this matter and will have additional details to share very shortly.
    Christopher Kuhagen, jsonline.com, 19 July 2025
  • After a reported incident of fan harassment against Reese during the Fever and Sky's first game of the season on May 17, the WNBA launched an investigation into the matter.
    Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • Creative minds in Hollywood and the entertainment industry have long had a role at the Central Intelligence Agency, devising clever solutions to its most vexing problems, such as perfecting the art of disguise and harnessing a magician’s ability to cast spellbinding illusions.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2025
  • The Dodgers have become proficient at overcoming injuries with unprecedented roster depth and are close to getting to the other side of a vexing issue once again.
    Doug Padilla, Oc Register, 5 July 2025
Noun
  • The wide-ranging survey was designed to tease out how individuals’ perceptions and beliefs around key global issues and their personal economic outlook impact their purchasing behavior.
    Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • Horehound candy has origins going back centuries in folk medicine, when the horehound plant was used to brew teas and used as remedies for various throat and digestive issues.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • This is especially worrisome since the Tesla launched its Robotaxi service less than two weeks ago on June 22.
    Charles Singh, USA Today, 4 July 2025
  • Baird analyst Jonathan Komp said in a note last week that some of the bearish sentiment on Wolverine stock is overdone, especially in light of its strong first-quarter results that proved its exposure to tariffs is perhaps not as worrisome as previously feared.
    Brian Evans, CNBC, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Richard Dreyfuss has opted out of a fan event due to a severe case of bronchitis.
    Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 13 July 2025
  • For more severe or persistent cases, your healthcare provider may recommend oral medications, injections or infusions, and light therapy.12 For mild cases or flares, creams, ointments, oils, and other products may help.
    Mark Gurarie, Health, 13 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Problem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/problem. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on problem

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!