problems

noun

plural of problem
1
as in challenges
something that requires thought and skill for resolution the problem of world hunger

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in questions
an interrogative expression often used to test knowledge there were only 10 problems on the exam, but they were all challenging

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 problems This is adding to the already high toll caused by problems with energy and water supplies, devastated crops, losses in river traffic and trade. — ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026 Some common laser problems can already be corrected automatically. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026 Drugs such as Lamictal and lithium, along with anticonvulsants and antipsychotics, can help control manic and depressive episodes, quiet racing thoughts and sleep problems, and curb risky behavior. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 Miguel says the problems facing rural populations can be daunting. — Fatma Tanis, NPR, 29 Aug. 2026 They are known as optimal stopping problems, and at their heart sits a deceptively simple question. — Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Those attacks have also led to problems with resupplying Navy vessels, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, which has drawn national attention for its extended deployment supporting operations in the Middle East. — Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 28 Aug. 2026 Promotion problems in the department Kennon also alleges department decisions about assignments and promotions ultimately left her unable to compete for a captain position. — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 22 Aug. 2026 Cordovez questioned why problems at Bucky Dent led to the closure of Milander when no violations had been found at the facility. — Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 22 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for problems
  1. challenges
  2. questions
  3. issues
  4. matters
  5. troubles
Noun
  • Advancements in security screenings have also brought challenges, including potential discrimination against certain passengers.
    — Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026
  • These days, the existential challenges faced by newspapers across the country sound more like a Shakespearean tragedy than a comedy.
    — Julie Hinds, Freep.com, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of challenges
Noun
  • Set against the backdrop of political dishonesty and the country’s abandonment of ideals, the book probes questions about how to be an artist in the world.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Now, officials are raising questions about the project’s future.
    — Joel Mathis, TheWeek, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of questions
Noun
  • His defense attorney previously said the assaults were not politically motivated and that DeFoor suffers from mental health issues.
    — Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 2 Sep. 2026
  • The Independence Plaza Neighborhood Council has been fighting in court to force Olive Park’s owners, Millennia Housing Management, to secure the vacant property and fix issues with water, trash, mold and pests.
    — Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of issues
Noun
  • On Thursday, Pittman stated that personnel matters of public agencies, such as local school districts, do not rise to the level of federal judicial review.
    — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Aug. 2026
  • How to use a bidet correctly Technique matters because every part of the process involves delicate tissue and bacteria.
    — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of matters
Noun
  • But multiple polls this month have shown Americans feel pessimistic about the war and their economic troubles.
    — Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026
  • For years, the British American brothers cultivated the image that laws did not apply to them even as legal troubles mounted in the UK, Romania and the US.
    — Jonny Hallam, CNN Money, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of troubles

Browse Nearby Words

problematic
problems
pro bono
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Cite this Entry

“Problems.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/problems. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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