01
das Problem
problem
A difficult task, an open question, or a situation that requires a solution.
example
Das größte Problem ist der Mangel an qualifizierten Arbeitskräften.
The biggest problem is the shortage of qualified workers.
das Problem
problem
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Typical verbs
'Problem' (problem) is often combined with certain verbs that describe how to deal with it. Common ones are: 'ein Problem lösen' (to solve a problem), 'ein Problem haben' (to have a problem), 'ein Problem darstellen' (to pose a problem), or 'ein Problem verursachen' (to cause a problem).
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen schnell eine Möglichkeit finden, dieses Problem zu lösen.
We need to quickly find a way to solve this problem.
Sentence structure with 'dass'
To describe a problem more precisely, the structure 'Das Problem ist, dass ...' (The problem is that ...) is often used. It is followed by a subordinate clause that explains the problem.
EXAMPLE
Das Problem ist, dass wir nicht genug Zeit haben.
The problem is that we don’t have enough time.
Informal response
'Kein Problem!' (No problem!) is a very common informal response to a request or an apology. It signals that something is no trouble or that you are not upset.
EXAMPLE
Entschuldigung für die Verspätung! – Kein Problem, komm einfach rein.
Sorry for being late! – No problem, just come in.
Correct preposition
When you have difficulty with a particular thing, you use the preposition 'mit' (with). The structure is: 'ein Problem mit' + dative.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe ein Problem mit meinem neuen Computer.
I have a problem with my new computer.
Compare with
Problem vs Frage
question
'die Frage' and 'das Problem' can both refer to something that still needs to be clarified. 'die Frage' sounds more neutral: it is about a topic or point for which you need an answer or decision. 'das Problem' sounds stronger and more negative, because something is difficult or requires a solution. They can be confused when 'Frage' does not mean a sentence with a question mark, but an open matter. A practical tip: you can clarify a 'Frage', but you have to solve a 'Problem'.
Problem
Zu Hause hat mein Freund ein Problem mit dem WLAN und kann nicht lernen.
At home, my friend has a problem with the Wi-Fi and can't study.
Frage
Vor dem Wochenende müssen wir noch die Frage klären, wer den Schlüssel bekommt.
Before the weekend, we still need to clarify the question of who gets the key.
In real life
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