The German word for problem is das Problem.
It means exactly what it does in English—an issue, challenge, or difficulty that needs to be solved.

It’s one of the 1000 most frequently used nouns in German and one of the most useful words in modern conversation—from relationships to computers to global news.

Gender and Pronunciation

It’s a neuter noun: das Problem.
Want a shortcut to figuring out noun genders quickly? Try our video lesson for pattern-based tips.

Pronunciation:
Problem is pronounced [proh-BLAYM]

• “proh” like pro

• “blame” with a slightly rounded ‘e’
  Two syllables: proh-BLAYM

Example sentences

Wir haben ein Problem mit der Heizung.
We have a problem with the heating.

Kein Problem! Ich helfe dir.
No problem! I’ll help you.

Dieses Problem ist schwer zu lösen.
This problem is hard to solve.

Nuance and usage tips

🧩 Problem can mean both small daily issues (Ich hab ein Problem mit meinem Handy) and big-picture challenges (Klimaprobleme, soziale Probleme).

💬 The phrase Kein Problem! (“No problem!”) is super common and informal—great for everyday reassurance or friendliness.

🔬 In academic or technical writing, Problemstellung refers to the “problem statement,” and Problemlösung to the “problem-solving process.”

How does this word come up in real conversations?

"Wir müssen das Problem dringend lösen."
We urgently need to solve the problem.

"Kein Problem, ich übernehme das."
No problem, I’ll take care of it.

"Sie reden über gesellschaftliche Probleme."
They’re talking about social issues.

Sample Dialogue (Beginner Level)

Jan: Mein Computer geht nicht mehr an.
Lea: Oh nein, was ist das Problem?
Jan: Keine Ahnung – vielleicht der Akku?
Lea: Ich schau’s mir mal an.

Translation:
Jan: My computer won’t turn on.
Lea: Oh no, what’s the problem?
Jan: No idea—maybe the battery?
Lea: I’ll take a look.

Grammatical case examples

Nominative:
Das Problem liegt bei der Software.
The problem is with the software.

Accusative:
Ich sehe das Problem nicht.
I don’t see the problem.

Dative:
Mit dem Problem sind viele Menschen konfrontiert.
Many people are faced with the problem.

Genitive:
Die Lösung des Problems ist kompliziert.
The solution to the problem is complicated.

Other ways to say problem in German

There are few true synonyms. Schwierigkeit (difficulty) is a bit softer and more general. Thema (topic/issue) can be used in diplomatic or bureaucratic contexts. Herausforderung (challenge) is often preferred in motivational or professional settings as a more positive spin.

Still, Problem remains the go-to word in most situations.

Word variations and tidbits

You’ll find Problem in many compounds: Verkehrsproblem (traffic problem), Beziehungsproblem (relationship problem), Lösungsproblem (solution-related issue), and Problemzone (problem area—used in fitness, often tongue-in-cheek).

🧠 Fun fact: The word entered German via Latin problema, and its meaning hasn’t shifted much—proof that some issues are timeless.

📘 Duden entry for Problem:
https://www.duden.de/rechtschreibung/Problem
🎥 Want to solve the biggest problem in German learning—vocabulary overload? Our video course helps you master 1000 must-know nouns, clearly and stress-free.

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