In this blog post, we will explore 20 common idioms and phrasal verbs related to problems. Understanding these expressions can help you communicate more effectively and understand the nuances of the English language better.
1. Run into a problem
Meaning: Encounter a problem.
Example: We ran into a problem with the project.
2. Deal with a problem
Meaning: Manage a problem.
Example: She dealt with the problem calmly and efficiently.
3. Get over a problem
Meaning: Overcome a problem.
Example: He finally got over his financial problems.
4. Face up to a problem
Meaning: Confront a problem.
Example: They need to face up to their problems now.
5. Iron out problems
Meaning: Resolve problems.
Example: We need to iron out the problems before launch.
6. Run into trouble
Meaning: Encounter difficulties.
Example: We ran into trouble during our trip.
7. Sort out a problem
Meaning: Solve a problem.
Example: I need to sort out this problem quickly.
8. Put up with problems
Meaning: Tolerate problems.
Example: She had to put up with many problems.
9. Stir up trouble
Meaning: Cause trouble.
Example: He always stirs up trouble at meetings.
10. Get into trouble
Meaning: Encounter problems.
Example: They got into trouble for breaking the rules.
11. Smooth over problems
Meaning: Make problems less severe.
Example: We need to smooth over these problems immediately.
12. Run across a problem
Meaning: Find a problem by chance.
Example: We ran across a problem in the final stages.
13. Bring up a problem
Meaning: Mention a problem.
Example: She brought up a problem during the discussion.
14. Take care of a problem
Meaning: Solve a problem.
Example: I’ll take care of the problem right away.
15. Look into a problem
Meaning: Investigate a problem.
Example: They are looking into the problem seriously.
16. Break down problems
Meaning: Analyze problems.
Example: We need to break down the problems into parts.
17. Clear up a problem
Meaning: Resolve a problem.
Example: He cleared up the problem with his explanation.
18. Run up against a problem
Meaning: Face an unexpected problem.
Example: We ran up against a problem we didn’t foresee.
19. Wrestle with a problem
Meaning: Struggle with a problem.
Example: She wrestled with the problem all night.
20. Work out a problem
Meaning: Solve a problem.
Example: They worked out the problem together.