Synonyms of problem

problem 1 of 2

noun

ˈprä-bləm 

1

as in challenge

something that requires thought and skill for resolution

the problem of world hunger

Synonyms & Similar Words

• challenge
• matter
• issue
• question
• case
• trouble
• dilemma
• predicament
• knot
• fix
• hot water
• quandary
• nut
• conundrum
• crux
• quagmire
• mystery
• puzzle
• glitch
• riddle
• pickle
• jam
• pitfall
• corner
• enigma
• Gordian knot
• spot
• snag
• mire
• hitch
• puzzlement
• toughy
• hole
• toughie
• catch
• sticky wicket
• catch-22
• poser
• stumper
• brainteaser

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• solution
• answer
• silver bullet
• magic bullet
• panacea
• cure-all

2

as in question

an interrogative expression often used to test knowledge

there were only 10 problems on the exam, but they were all challenging

Synonyms & Similar Words

• question
• conundrum
• interrogative
• riddle
• puzzle
• poser
• stickler
• toughy
• toughie
• quiz
• stumper
• brainteaser

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• solution
• response
• answer

problem

2 of 2

adjective

as in troublesome

Synonyms & Similar Words

• troublesome
• vexing
• worrisome
• stubborn
• serious
• complicated
• vexatious
• complex
• troublous
• involved
• abstract
• intricate
• scabrous
• abstruse
• problematic
• recondite
• inconvenient
• painful
• difficult
• problematical
• onerous
• stressful
• burdensome
• oppressive
• tricky
• hard
• demanding
• importunate
• exhausting
• thorny
• exacting
• discommoding
• knotty
• touchy
• sensitive
• sticky
• tough
• ticklish
• dodgy
• tricksy
• hairy
• spiny
• prickly
• catchy
• nasty
• delicate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• easy
• simple
• manageable
• straightforward
• uncomplicated
• painless
• effortless
• unproblematic
• undemanding

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

Recent Examples of problem

Noun

The creek is known for having a sewage overflow problem and posing a health hazard to any who enter it. —ArsTechnica, 12 May 2025

The adviser must also demand coherent excellence and strategic consistency in the NSC’s submissions to the president and be able to distinguish between a problem and a crisis. —Arthur House, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2025

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