problem 1 of 2

Definition of problemnext

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
Though most people recover, some develop long-term health problems after their telltale rash clears. Erika Edwards, NBC news, 21 Feb. 2026 That is, that the country should focus on its problems at home, not on its role around the world. Susan Page, USA Today, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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 See All Example Sentences for problem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for problem
Noun
  • That has invited court challenges from defendants with cases before federal prosecutors and drawn resistance from judges who say the appointments are unlawful.
    JESSICA HILL THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 19 Feb. 2026
  • Meta has argued that Kaley’s difficult childhood caused her mental health challenges, not its products.
    Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • He’s made no official announcements yet, and the person who picked up a Friday call to his campaign phone line did not answer a question about whether any decisions had been made.
    Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 21 Feb. 2026
  • The upcoming historic mission, expected to lift off as soon as early March, will mark the first time humans have ventured to the moon’s vicinity in more than 50 years — and kick-start a new wave of lunar exploration that could answer enduring questions about Earth’s natural satellite.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • That can be especially troublesome for travelers prone to getting seasick.
    Nathan Diller, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026
  • But not being able to match a 3-pointer consistently could prove troublesome.
    Zach Harper, New York Times, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Illinois, meanwhile, had no issue raining shots from long range in the first half, or speeding past USC through the lane, for that matter.
    Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026
  • The appeals court didn’t attempt to resolve the underlying issue, but agreed with state officials that Huntington Beach’s charter-city status doesn’t give it the authority over election-integrity issues, which are a state matter.
    The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • What is Congress doing to create a solution to this vexing, complex problem?
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026
  • On the heels of Mayor Mamdani’s successful election campaign, many New Yorkers are hopeful that some of the city’s most vexing problems will finally get addressed.
    Jonathan Cohn, New York Daily News, 7 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • During the press conference, Isaacman admitted that the spacecraft should never have carried astronauts, given the unresolved technical issues.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Gravel pathways and a few unavoidable stairs here and there shouldn’t cause significant issues for travelers unreliant on walking aids.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Even more worrisome than cheating on homework is the decline in students’ ability to think for themselves.
    Liz Shulman, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
  • The sweeping nature of Flock’s surveillance is also worrisome, Robinson said.
    John Aguilar, Denver Post, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In addition, the county learned about Knox’s old embezzlement case – and that she’d been convicted of stealing more than $500,000.
    Blake Nelson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
  • In Minnesota, federal prosecutors have filed 35 cases in December and January, compared to just nine during Biden’s entire four-year term.
    Isabelle Chapman, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Problem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/problem. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.

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