PROBLEM Synonyms: 105 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'problem' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of problem are enigma , mystery , puzzle , and riddle . While all these words mean "something which baffles or perplexes," problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern. // problems created by high technology

Q: In what contexts can 'enigma' take the place of 'problem'?

While the synonyms enigma and problem are close in meaning, enigma applies to utterance or behavior that is very difficult to interpret. // his suicide remains an enigma

Q: When could 'mystery' be used to replace 'problem'?

Although the words mystery and problem have much in common, mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation. // the mystery of the stone monoliths

Q: Where would 'puzzle' be a reasonable alternative to 'problem'?

The words puzzle and problem are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, puzzle applies to an enigma or problem that challenges ingenuity for its solution. // the thief's motives were a puzzle for the police

Q: When might 'riddle' be a better fit than 'problem'?

In some situations, the words riddle and problem are roughly equivalent. However, riddle suggests an enigma or problem involving paradox or apparent contradiction. // the riddle of the reclusive pop star

problem 1 of 2

noun

ˈprä-bləm

Definition of problem next

as in challenge

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in question

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

problem

2 of 2

adjective

as in troublesome

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun problem differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of problem are enigma, mystery, puzzle, and riddle. While all these words mean "something which baffles or perplexes," problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern.

problems created by high technology

In what contexts can enigma take the place of problem?

While the synonyms enigma and problem are close in meaning, enigma applies to utterance or behavior that is very difficult to interpret.

his suicide remains an enigma

When could mystery be used to replace problem?

Although the words mystery and problem have much in common, mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation.

the mystery of the stone monoliths

Where would puzzle be a reasonable alternative to problem?

The words puzzle and problem are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, puzzle applies to an enigma or problem that challenges ingenuity for its solution.

the thief's motives were a puzzle for the police

When might riddle be a better fit than problem?

In some situations, the words riddle and problem are roughly equivalent. However, riddle suggests an enigma or problem involving paradox or apparent contradiction.

the riddle of the reclusive pop star

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 problem

Noun

The federal student loan system is already plagued by problems, said Michele Shepard Zampini, senior director of college affordability at The Institute For College Access and Success. —

Annie Nova, CNBC, 4 Feb. 2025 As is often the case, Trump accurately diagnosed a fundamental failure of the reigning policy elites, but offered a half-baked solution to the problem. —

Yair Rosenberg, The Atlantic, 5 Feb. 2025

Adjective

The staff is trained to address residents who show confused or problem behavior. —

San Diego Elder Law Center, sandiegouniontribune.com, 24 Apr. 2018 Many people might be surprised to learn that undocumented immigrants are not typically problem children. —

Ellen McGirt, Fortune, 5 Mar. 2017 See all Example Sentences for problem

Recent Examples of Synonyms for problem

Noun

Similar challenges explain why the Nashville Zoo doesn't have polar bears or elephants, which are difficult to keep safe and happy in captivity.

— Molly Davis, The Tennessean, 3 Feb. 2025
Biomedical research Developing diagnostic tools and countermeasures for the unique health challenges of deep spaceflight.

— Anastasia Stepanova, Space.com, 2 Feb. 2025