The word problem is connected with the word solution. A problem is something negative that needs to be solved. Some bad things that happen cant be called problems because theyre unsolvable. For example, if you broke your leg, you probably wouldnt call your broken leg a problem. The broken leg cant be fixed. On the other hand, figuring out how to get to work with a broken leg is a problem. Trouble is less connected to solutions. Its more connected to negative feelings that you get when bad things happen. Using the word problem Problem is used more than trouble or issue. A problem is something bad that you have to deal with. • You have problems. • Sorry, I have a problem with my phone. Or you say that there are problems with things: • Theres a problem with the Internet connection. • Is there a problem with it? Problems belong to people, so you can say that something is your problem, their problem, etc.: • Thats not my problem. Ask Whats your problem? when youre angry with someone. We also use the word problem to talk about questions in math textbooks and tests. ¤ Using the word trouble You can be in trouble or get in trouble: • I used to get in trouble as a teenager for sneaking out of the house at night You shouldnt use articles (a or the) with trouble. But you can say some trouble: Ive had similar trouble with this car before. Things can cause trouble: • Im so sorry to cause so much trouble for you guys. You can substitute problems instead of trouble (though theyre not as common). Notice that problems is countable, but trouble is usually uncountable. You can say that a person is trouble, which means that theyre dangrous or they cause trouble for other people: • That boy is trouble. You can use trouble with a gerund (have trouble __ing): • If you have trouble seeing it, feel free to move closer. • But I still have trouble expressing myself. Problems can fit into this pattern too, but its much less common. Say Its no trouble when youre politely offering to help someone. A: I can drive Jared to school B: Really? Are you sure? A: Yeah, its no trouble.
Posted on: Wed, 31 Dec 2014 03:16:15 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015