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problem
one-banana problem
A problem, project, or task that requires little to no effort, expertise, or intelligence to solve or complete. Supposedly from the notion that a trained monkey could do what is required. A: "We have to add in some code so that users are able to remain logged into the website, even if they visit other pages." B: "No worries, that's a one-banana problem."
a problem shared is a problem halved
Talking about a problem with someone else usually makes it seem less daunting or troubling. Just tell me what's bothering you, honey. You know what they say—a problem shared is a problem halved.
problem child
1. A child who is prone to wild or disobedient behavior. I know it's hard to believe now that he's a successful lawyer, but Timmy was a total problem child and constantly got into trouble! Debbie just keeps misbehaving no matter what we do—do you have any suggestions for dealing with a problem child?
2. One aspect of a company that is not performing as well as others. At this point, our retail store has become such a problem child that management is probably going to close it down before it bankrupts us.
3. A product that requires a lot of attention and funding in order to be successful. I know you all see this book as a problem child, but I really do think that it can a bestseller with the right marketing approach.
first world problem
slang A frivolous issue or problem that is only a source of great concern or frustration because the speaker lives in an economically-developed country; a minor issue compared to the hardships faced by those living in so-called "third world" countries. A: "I can't believe the Wi-Fi is down. What am I supposed to do if I can't watch Netflix?" B: "Hello first world problems!" I just got back from a service trip to Haiti, and things I was worried about before I left just seem like first world problems now.
cash flow problem
a lack of hard currency. My real estate business has a temporary cash flow problem. Due to his cash flow problem, he was unable to pay his employees that month.
contend with a problem
to put up with a difficulty; to struggle with the problems caused by someone or something. I cannot contend with your temper anymore. I wish we did not have to contend with this changeable weather.
for all someone's problems
in spite of a person's problems (as specified). For all her complaining, she still seems to be a happy person. For all my aches and pains, I'm still rather healthy.
have a weight problem
Euph. to be fat; to be overweight. He had a weight problem when he was a teenager, but he slimmed down once he started exercising. She has a weight problem, but she's a lovely woman.
have an alcohol problem
and have a drinking problemEuph. to be a drunkard. He has an alcohol problem. It got so bad that he almost lost his job. If you have a drinking problem, our clinic can help.
(I have) no problem with that.
That is okay with me. (See also No problem.) Bob: Is it okay if I sign us up to play mixed doubles? Sally: I have no problem with that. Bill: It looks as though we will have to come back later. They're not open yet. Is that all right? Jane: No problem with that. When do they open?
no sweat
and no problemInf. no difficulty; do not worry. Of course I can have your car repaired by noon. No sweat. You'd like a red one? No problem.
*root of the problem
an understanding of the causes or basis of a problem. (*Typically: determine ~; figure out ~; find ~; get to ~; get at ~.) It will take a little more study to get to the root of the problem. Let's stop avoiding the issue and get at the root of the problem.
(that causes) no problem
That will not cause a problem for me or anyone else. (No problem is informal.) Mary: Do you mind waiting for just a little while? Bob: No problem. Sue: Does this block your light? Can you still read? Jane: That causes no problem.
What's the problem?
1. Lit. What problem are you presenting to me? Bill (coming in): I need to talk to you about something. Tom: What's the problem, Bill? "What's the problem?" said Mary, peering at her secretary over her glasses.
2. Inf. a question asking what the problem is and implying that there should not be a problem. Child (crying): He hit me! Father: What's the problem? Child: He hit me! Father: Are you hurt? Child: No. Father: Then stop crying. Bob: Hi, Fred. Fred: What's the problem? Bob: There's no problem. Why do you ask? Fred: I've had nothing but problems today.
no problem
(spoken) 1. I can easily do what you have asked You can just call and say a€?I need a babysitter tonighta€? and we'll send one out, no problem.
2. I am not upset by this a€?I'm sorry, but we need to go home now.a€? a€?No problem.a€?
3. I was happy to do it
you're welcome a€?I put some lettuce and tomato on the sandwich.a€? a€?Oh, thank you.a€? a€?No problem.a€? Usage notes: usually said in answer to thank you
work the problem
to actively try different solutions The mayor has named a committee to work the problem of downtown parking.
no sweat
(spoken) there is no problem or difficulty We'll be back by six, no sweat, but if there's a problem, we'll call you.
teething problems/troubles
problems that you experience in the early stages of an activity
Usage notes: When babies are teething (= getting their first set of teeth) they are often in pain and cry a lot.
There were the usual teething troubles at the start of the project, but that's to be expected. Many marriages go through teething problems in the first few months. no problem
1. Also, no sweat; not to worry. There's no difficulty about this, don't concern yourself. For example, Of course I can change your tire-no problem, or You want more small change? no sweat, or We'll be there in plenty of time, not to worry. The first of these colloquial terms dates from about 1960 and the second from about 1950. The third, originating in Britain in the 1930s and using not to with the sense of "don't," crossed the Atlantic in the 1970s.
2. You're welcome, as in Thanks for the ride, Dad.-No problem. [Late 1900s]
no sweat
No problem
1. and No prob and NP phr. All is well.; There is no problem, so don’t worry or fret. (Often said after someone else says I’m sorry.) No problem. I can do it easily. A: Gee! I’m sorry! B: No prob.
2. phr. you are welcome. (Sometimes said after someone else says thank you.) A: Thanks a lot. B: No problem.
no sweat
interj. no problem; Don’t worry; it is no problem. It’s no big deal. No sweat.
no problem
1. Used to express confirmation of or compliance with a request.
2. Used to acknowledge an expression of gratitude.
no sweat
Slang 1. Easily done or handled.
2. Used to acknowledge an expression of gratitude.