PROBLEMS Synonyms: 51 Similar and Opposite Words

problems

noun

plural of problem

as in challenges

something that requires thought and skill for resolution the problem of world hunger

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as in questions

an interrogative expression often used to test knowledge there were only 10 problems on the exam, but they were all challenging

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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

Noun

Additionally, analysts note that one of Burnham's immediate major challenges will be fiscal hurdles.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
But now the island’s cigar industry is facing a perfect storm of existential challenges.

— Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of challenges

Noun

Every voter was also asked the same four questions off the ballot — their biggest snub, the most overspent FYC campaign, the network or streamer having the best season and the one win that would actually move the business.

— Clayton Davis, Variety, 27 Aug. 2026
At this point in the draft, every RB has questions, but volume remains king, and Harvey could be in a frustrating battle for touches all season.

— Jonathan Rubin, Charlotte Observer, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of questions

Noun

In 2012, however, Curry suffered a severe stroke that left him with lasting mobility issues and affected his ability to perform.

— Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 26 Aug. 2026
The legendary Dolly Parton, who died on August 25 after a short battle with cancer, was quite candid about her ongoing health issues.

— Allison DeGrushe, StyleCaster, 26 Aug. 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

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problematic

problems

pro bono

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Style

“Problems.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/problems. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of problems

noun

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