problem solving uk spelling

“Problem-Solving” Or “Problem Solving”? Learn If It Is Hyphenated

Is it problem-solving or problem solving? Hyphenation rules seem to be a little confusing when you’re first picking up a language. Don’t worry, though. They’re not nearly as complicated as the language may have led you to believe!

Problem-Solving Or Problem Solving – Hyphenated Or Not?

When we discuss the problem-solving hyphen rule, we learn that problem-solving is hyphenated when used to modify a noun or object in a sentence. We keep the two words separated when using them as their own noun and not modifying anything else in the sentence.

Examples Of When To Use “Problem-Solving”

Now that we’re into the whole debate of problem-solving vs problem solving, let’s look through some examples of how we can use “problem-solving” with a hyphen. As stated above, we use “problem-solving” when modifying a noun or object in a sentence. It’s the most common way to write “problem-solving.” Even the spelling without a hyphen is slowly being pushed out of common language use!

• This is a problem-solving class.
• I hold a problem-solving position at my workplace.
• My manager put me in charge of the problem-solving accounts.
• They say I have a problem-solving mind.
• We’re known as problem-solving children.

Examples Of When To Use “Problem Solving”

Though much less common to be seen written as a phrase noun, it is still worth mentioning. It’s grammatically correct to use “problem solving” at the end of a sentence or clause without a hyphen. However, as we stated above, many people are beginning to prefer the ease of sticking to the hyphenated spelling, meaning that it’s slowly phasing out of existence even in this form.

• I’m good at problem solving.
• This requires a lot of problem solving.
• We are all trained in problem solving.
• My job asks for problem solving.
• Did you say you were good at problem solving?

Is Problem-Solving Hyphenated AP Style?

Have you had a look through the rules in the AP stylebook before? Even if you haven’t, there’s a good explanation for hyphens there. As we stated above, we use hyphens when linking close words that modify a noun or object in a sentence. They’re used to help a reader better understand what is going on through the modification of the clause.

Should I Capitalize “Solving” In The Word “Problem-Solving”?

The question of “is problem-solving hyphenated” was answered, but now we’ve got a new question. What happens to capitalization rules when we add a hyphen to a title. It depends on your own title choices, so let’s look a little further into the three potential options. The first option capitalizes only the first word and any proper nouns in a title. In this case, neither word in “problem-solving” is capitalized.

The second option capitalizes all words except for short conjunctions, short prepositions, and articles. In this case, you will always capitalize “problem” but always leave “solving” uncapitalized. The final option capitalizes every single word in a title. No matter what, you’ll capitalize both words in “problem-solving” when using this style to write your titles.

Does The Rule Also Apply To “Problem Solver” Vs “Problem-Solver”?

The same rule does apply when we use “problem solver” instead of “problem solving.” However, it’s not often that we’ll see a “problem-solver” modifying a noun or object (unless it’s a problem-solver robot or something). So, it’s most likely you’ll write “problem solver.”

Alternatives To “Problem-Solving”

If you’re still struggling with the hyphen rule of whether it’s problem solving or problem-solving, there’s one last thing we can help you with. We can give you some alternatives that have the same meanings but don’t require a hyphen. This way, you can be safe in your own knowledge without having to worry about getting the rules wrong.

• interpretive

Quiz – Problem-Solving Or Problem Solving?

We’ll finish with a quiz to see how much you’ve learned from this article. The answers are all multiple choice, so you should have a blast with them! We’ll include the answers at the end to reference as well.

• I’ve been told that I’m good at (A. problem-solving / B. problem solving).
• I hold my (A. problem-solving / B. problem solving) skills close to my heart.
• We aren’t great at (A. problem-solving / B. problem solving).
• These are all the best (A. problem-solving / B. problem solving) subjects.
• Can we have a go at a (A. problem-solving / B. problem solving) puzzle?

Quiz Answers

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

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Definition of problem-solving noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

problem-solving

• to develop problem-solving skills and strategies

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Find out which words work together and produce more natural-sounding English with the Oxford Collocations Dictionary app. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

Alex Carter

English language has its quirks, and one such quirk that often trips up even the most seasoned writers is knowing when to use a hyphen. Today, I’ll tackle one of those tricky terms: “problem-solving” or “problem solving”? It’s an essential term in our daily lives, whether we’re tackling work dilemmas or figuring out weekend plans. But is it hyphenated?

The answer might surprise you. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, both versions are correct ! That’s right, you can use either “problem-solving” with a hyphen or “problem solving” without a hyphen depending on the context.

Now, before you breathe a sigh of relief thinking this linguistic dilemma doesn’t matter after all – let me stop you right there. While both variations are acceptable in English grammar, they’re not always interchangeable. The key lies in understanding their slightly different uses which I’ll delve into as we progress through this article.

Understanding the Concept of Problem-Solving

Here’s a fun fact. The English language is like a never-ending puzzle, isn’t it? Just when I think I’ve got it all figured out, another question pops up! Today’s conundrum? The concept of “problem-solving.” Is it hyphenated or not?

Let me start by saying problem-solving is an essential skill in our lives. It’s that little mental muscle we flex whenever we’re faced with decisions – big or small. From figuring out what to have for breakfast to deciding on a career path, problem-solving plays an integral role.

So let’s dive straight into the grammar behind this term. Technically speaking, both “problem solving” and “problem-solving” are correct. But there’s a catch! When should you use which? Here’s how it works: when “problem solving” acts as a noun (the act of finding solutions), there’s no need for the hyphen. For example:

• She excels at problem solving.

But when it functions as an adjective (describing something else), put that hyphen in there! Like so:

• He displayed excellent problem-solving skills during the meeting.

Think about it like this: if you’re discussing the act – skip the dash! If you’re describing something else – add that dash!

One last thing before wrapping this up: remember my advice here only applies to compound adjectives like ‘problem-solving’, where two words work together to describe something else. There are other types of compound words where rules differ slightly but hey, let’s tackle one tricky grammatical topic at a time!

Don’t worry if you’re still feeling confused; even native speakers get tripped up by these nuances sometimes. That’s what makes English such an interesting language—there are always new things to discover and learn!

Difference Between ‘Problem Solving’ and ‘Problem-Solving’

Starting off, let’s get one thing clear: “problem solving” and “problem-solving” aren’t just two sides of the same coin. They’re related, sure, but they serve different purposes in our language.

Let’s delve into this a bit more. When you see “problem solving”, it’s typically used as a noun phrase that refers to the process or act of finding solutions to issues or challenges. For example:

• I enjoy problem solving.
• Problem solving is an essential skill for any job.

On the other hand, when you come across “problem-solving”, we’re dealing with an adjective here. It’s used to describe something — or someone – having the capacity or function of resolving difficulties. Here are some instances where you might see it in action:

• She has excellent problem-solving skills.
• We need a problem-solving approach to tackle this issue.

So what separates these two? It all comes down to that tiny hyphen – known formally as a compound modifier. In essence, this punctuation mark connects words together so they work as one descriptive element.

It’s like when you use peanut butter and jelly – individually, they’re great on their own (like ‘problem’ and ‘solving’). But sandwich them together with bread (the hyphen), and you’ve got yourself a classic PB&J sandwich!

That being said, don’t fret if you’ve mixed up these forms before – even seasoned writers find themselves tripped up by this tricky grammar rule now and then! Just remember: if you’re describing something with ‘problem’ and ‘solving’, stick that hyphen in there!

To sum things up:

• Use “Problem Solving” when talking about the act itself
• Use “Problem-Solving” when describing something or someone able to solve problems

Stay tuned for more intriguing insights into English language quirks coming your way!

Is ‘Problem-Solving’ Hyphenated? A Deep Dive

Ever wondered about the correct usage of the term “problem-solving”? You’re not alone. It’s a common enough question, especially when it comes to writing professional content or academic papers.

Let’s get straight to the point: “problem-solving” is indeed hyphenated when used as an adjective before a noun. That means if you’re referring to problem-solving skills or a problem-solving approach, remember to stick that little dash in there.

To illustrate:

• Correct: I need to improve my problem-solving skills.
• Incorrect: I need to improve my problem solving skills.

On the flip side, if “problem solving” is functioning as a noun phrase – that is, it’s the subject or object of your sentence – then no hyphen is required.

Here are some examples for clarification:

• Correct: Problem solving takes patience and persistence.
• Incorrect: Problem-solving takes patience and persistence.

The English language can be as slippery as an eel sometimes! Just think of our hyphen here like one of those helpful traffic signs guiding you through unfamiliar territory – it lets us know when two words are working together as one unit (like ‘high-speed chase’) versus when they’re just hanging out side by side (as in ‘the chase was high speed’).

But don’t worry too much! Even seasoned writers might trip up on this from time to time. Remembering rules like these helps keep your writing clear and polished. And who knows? Maybe next time you’ll be the one answering someone else’s grammar questions!

Conclusion: Clarifying Common Misconceptions About Problem-Solving

So, here we are at the end of our journey together. I’ve enjoyed guiding you through the labyrinth that is English language usage and grammar.

Let’s clear something up once and for all – “problem-solving” or “problem solving”? The answer may surprise you. When used as a noun or an adjective before a noun, it’s hyphenated. For example:

• Noun: My problem-solving capabilities have improved.
• Adjective: She displayed fine problem-solving skills.

However, when ‘solving’ acts as a verb standing alone after ‘problem’, no hyphen is needed:

• He is good at problem solving.

To make this even clearer, let’s use bullet points to list some examples:

• Correct: I need to improve my problem-solving ability.
• Incorrect: I need to improve my problem solving ability.
• Correct: His strength lies in problem solving.
• Incorrect: His strength lies in problem-solving.

I hope this helps dispel any confusion surrounding the term “problem-solving”. It sure can be tricky navigating through the intricacies of English language rules!

Finally, let me share a metaphor with you to illustrate how important proper punctuation is – consider it like traffic signals on your writing journey! Just as traffic lights ensure smooth driving by controlling vehicle flow, correct punctuation ensures smoother reading by managing information flow.

And remember that learning never stops; there’s always more to discover about our fascinating language! So keep those questions coming, and don’t forget – when it comes to grammar nuances like these, every detail matters!

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Unleash Your Verbal Symphony

Problem Solving or Problem-Solving? (Find The Right Word!)

Waqas Ashraf

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Problem Solving or Problem-Solving, is a critical skill that enables individuals to identify and resolve complex issues in various aspects of their personal and professional lives.

It involves the ability to analyze a situation, identify the root cause of the problem, and develop effective strategies to address it. Whether in the context of business, education, or everyday life, strong problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving successful outcomes.

This introduction will provide an overview of the importance of problem solving and its impact on individual and organizational success.

Which Is Correct Problem Solving or Problem-Solving?

Both “Problem Solving” and “Problem-Solving” are correct, but they are used in different contexts.

“Problem Solving” is used when referring to the general concept or skill, while “Problem-Solving” is used when it is used as an adjective to describe something related to the process of solving problems. For example:

• “She is skilled in problem solving.”
• “The problem-solving approach helped us find a solution.”

What Is Problem Solving Skills:

Problem-solving skills are the cognitive abilities and thought processes you use to identify, analyze, and overcome challenges or obstacles. These skills are crucial in navigating various aspects of life, from tackling personal dilemmas to succeeding in professional settings.

Here are some key aspects of problem-solving skills:

Identifying the Problem:

• Critical thinking: Examining situations objectively and separating assumptions from facts.
• Observation: Identifying relevant details and recognizing patterns.
• Questioning: Asking insightful questions to understand the root cause of the problem.

Analyzing and Generating Solutions:

• Creativity: Brainstorming diverse and innovative solutions.
• Flexibility: Adapting approaches and considering different perspectives.
• Logical reasoning: Analyzing the feasibility and potential consequences of solutions.
• Decision-making: Evaluating options and choosing the most effective course of action.

Implementing and Evaluating:

• Planning and organization: Developing a step-by-step approach to implementing the chosen solution.
• Initiative and persistence: Taking action and overcoming challenges that may arise.
• Adaptability: Making adjustments based on feedback and new information.
• Reflection and evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness of the solution and learning from the experience.

Benefits of Strong Problem-Solving Skills:

• Increased efficiency and productivity.
• Improved decision-making and critical thinking.
• Enhanced adaptability and resilience.
• Greater confidence and self-reliance.
• Stronger communication and collaboration skills.

Does Problem-Solving Contain a Hyphen?

Yes, there is a hyphen in “problem-solving” when it is used as an adjective to describe something related to the process of solving problems. When referring to the general concept or skill, “problem solving” does not require a hyphen.

Problem Solving  Meaning and Definition:

Problem solving, also known as problem solving, refers to the process of analyzing and resolving complex issues in various aspects of life.

This skill is crucial for individuals in their personal and professional lives, enabling them to identify the root cause of a problem and develop effective strategies to address it. Whether in business, education, or everyday situations, strong problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving successful outcomes.

Problem Solving Examples:

Here are some examples of how to use “problem-solving” in a sentence, showcasing different nuances of the term:

• “Her strong problem-solving skills helped her navigate the complex project.”
• “The company is looking for candidates with excellent problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking.”
• “Finding creative solutions was crucial in this problem-solving exercise .”
• “A problem-solving approach is essential for overcoming this obstacle.”
• “They developed a problem-solving framework to guide decision-making.”
• “The team focused on problem-solving techniques like brainstorming and root-cause analysis.”

Other Sentence Examples:

• “The engineer applied her problem-solving skills to fix the malfunctioning engine.”
• “The negotiator used problem-solving tactics to broker a win-win agreement.”
• “Students honed their problem-solving skills by working on a collaborative project.”
• “The company implemented a new problem-solving software to improve efficiency.”

Problem-Solving Definition:

Problem-solving, also known as problem solving, encompasses the process of analyzing and resolving complex issues in various aspects of life.

This critical skill is crucial for individuals in their personal and professional lives, enabling them to identify the root cause of a problem and develop effective strategies to address it.

Whether in business, education, or everyday situations, strong problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving successful outcomes.

Problem Solving or Problem Solving UK:

Both “problem solving” and “problem-solving” are correct, but their usage depends on whether you’re using it as a noun or an adjective.

• As a noun: In both the US and UK, “problem solving” is the preferred spelling. It simply refers to the act of finding solutions to problems.
• As an adjective: In the UK, “problem-solving” is more common, while in the US, “problem solving” is preferred. It describes something related to solving problems, such as “problem-solving skills” or a “problem-solving approach.”

How Do You Spell Problem-Solving in British?

In British English, “problem-solving” is spelled with a hyphen, just like in American English. The spelling remains the same regardless of the English variant being used.

How Can I Use Problem-Solving in A Sentence?

When incorporating problem-solving in a sentence, it is essential to consider the specific context and the intended meaning. For instance, in a professional setting, you might say, “Her adept problem-solving skills contributed to the successful resolution of the complex project issue.”

In an everyday scenario, you could use it as, “The problem-solving approach helped the team find a creative solution to the logistical challenge.”

By utilizing problem-solving in various contexts, individuals can demonstrate their ability to analyze, strategize, and overcome obstacles effectively.

Strategies for Effective Problem Solving:

• Gather all relevant information
• Generate multiple potential solutions
• Evaluate each solution’s feasibility and potential outcomes
• Choose the best solution and create an action plan
• Implement the chosen solution
• Evaluate the results and make adjustments if necessary

Final Thoughts! Problem Solving or Problem-Solving!

The distinction between “Problem Solving” and “Problem-Solving” lies in their contextual usage. “Problem Solving” denotes the general concept or skill, while “Problem-Solving” serves as an adjective to describe something related to the process of solving problems.

This differentiation is crucial in conveying precise meaning and effectively articulating the application of problem-solving strategies.

Understanding this distinction ensures the accurate representation of the concept in various contexts, be it professional or personal.

What Is Problem Solving?

Problem solving is the process of analyzing and resolving complex issues in various aspects of life by identifying the root cause of a problem and developing effective strategies to address it.

Why Is Problem Solving Important?

Problem solving is important because it enables individuals to overcome challenges and achieve successful outcomes in both personal and professional contexts.

How Can Problem Solving Be Used in A Sentence?

For example, in a professional setting, you might say, “Her adept problem-solving skills contributed to the successful resolution of the complex project issue.”

What Are Some Strategies for Effective Problem Solving?

 Some strategies for effective problem solving include defining the problem clearly, gathering relevant information, generating potential solutions, evaluating feasibility, choosing the best solution, implementing the chosen solution, and evaluating results.

What Is the Difference Between “problem Solving” and “problem-Solving”?

 “Problem Solving” refers to the general concept or skill, while “Problem-Solving” is used as an adjective to describe something related to the process of solving problems.

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Definition of 'problem-solving'

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Problem Solving or Problem-Solving?

The term problem-solving with a hyphen is an adjective that describes nouns in a sentence. E.g., “The problem-solving abilities of this program are excellent.” Furthermore, the term problem solving without a hyphen is a noun. E.g., “He is excellent at problem solving.”

The term problem solving can appear as two different word types, a noun or a compound adjective.

When problem-solving has a hyphen, it is an adjective describing a noun .

For example, in this sentence, problem-solving describes capabilities , which is a noun. Therefore, you need to include a hyphen.

• Her problem-solving capabilities are outstanding.

However, when you use problem solving as a noun , the term is usually not hyphenated because it doesn’t modify anything.

• She is an expert at all types of problem solving .

Furthermore, the rule of using a hyphen for the adjective but not for the noun is correct grammar according to AP Style and the Chicago Manual of Style .

Sometimes in English, the rules concerning punctuation, such as hyphens, are vague. For example, in the Cambridge and Oxford dictionaries, the noun problem-solving appears with a hyphen.

Essentially, you should always use a hyphen for the term problem-solving as an adjective. However, for problem solving as a noun, unless you follow a specific style guide like AP that does not use a hyphen, you can choose whether to hyphenate the noun. Just make sure that you are consistent with your choice.

In addition, Google Ngram shows that problem solving without a hyphen is slightly more popular in the US than with a hyphen. However, in the UK , the hyphenated version is slightly more frequent.

Now that you have learned the basics concerning the term problem solving, please keep reading the rest of the article to learn more about using the two variations of problem solving .

Problem Solving

The term problem solving as two words without a hyphen is the noun form.

In terms of use, it relates to resolving problems, which can relate to problems in a specific discipline or more general problems.

In the following examples, the term problem solving refers to the act of solving problems. Therefore, we do not need a hyphen.

• Her inability to perform problem solving on any task means that she loses her temper quickly.
• You should include problem solving as a skill on your resume.
• In team projects, effective problem solving can lead to innovative solutions and successful outcomes.
• Problem solving is not just about finding immediate answers but understanding the root cause of the issue.
• Her approach to problem solving often involves breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps.

Furthermore, you should use the above rule when following both AP Style or the Chicago Manual of Style.

Problem-Solving

The term problem-solving as one word with a hyphen is a compound word that appears before a noun. Hence, it modifies the noun .

For example, in the following sentence, the word problem-solving modifies the noun skills.

• His problem-solving skills are the best in the company.
• Her problem-solving approach is both methodical and creative, making her a valuable asset to the team.
• The workshop focuses on problem-solving techniques to address everyday challenges.
• Many employers prioritize candidates with strong problem-solving abilities in dynamic work environments.
• The game challenges children to use their problem-solving instincts to navigate various puzzles.

Furthermore, you will come across some sentences in which the noun problem solving has a hyphen.

As shown in these examples:

• You need to work on your problem-solving if you want to become an engineer.
• Improving your problem-solving is essential for success in mathematics.
• Mastering problem-solving will greatly benefit you in software development.

This is often a stylistic choice . However, in writing that follows AP Style , you should not use a hyphen with the noun form of problem solving.

Problemsolving

The word problemsolving as a single word with no hyphen or space is incorrect , and you shouldn’t use it in this format.

There are two ways you can use the term problem solving .

The first is as a noun, in which case there is no hyphen, but there is a space.

• Correct: He is excellent at problem solving because he never gives up. (noun)
• Incorrect: He is excellent at problemsolving because he never gives up. (noun)
• Correct : She has a knack for problem solving , especially in high-pressure situations. (noun)
• Incorrect : She has a knack for problemsolving , especially in high-pressure situations. (noun)

Also, you can write problem-solving as an adjective, in which case you need a hyphen.

• Correct: He is excellent at problem solving because he never gives up. (adjective)
• Incorrect: He is excellent at problemsolving because he never gives up. (adjective)
• Correct : They often turn to her for advice on problem solving in challenging situations. (adjective)
• Incorrect : They often turn to her for advice on problemsolving in challenging situations. (adjective)

That’s all you need to know about the grammar rules concerning the words problem solving , problem-solving , and problemsolving . Rest assured that your sentences will be correct if you follow these!

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English pronunciation of problem-solving

Problem-solving.

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(English pronunciations of problem-solving from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus and from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary , both sources © Cambridge University Press)

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Is Problem-Solving Hyphenated?

Hyphens are a complicated grammar point that is difficult to learn. One word that many people get confused about is “problem-solving.” You will see this word used often in formal environments, especially with a hyphen. Is problem-solving hyphenated?

Yes, problem-solving is hyphenated because it is an adjective modifying a noun. Problem-solving is what is called a compound adjective, meaning it needs the hyphen. Without the hyphen, problem-solving becomes problem solving and takes on a completely different meaning that you should not use when describing a noun.

The rest of this article will cover what problem-solving means and how to use problem-solving in a sentence.

What Does Problem-Solving Mean?

Problem-solving is a compound adjective that describes the process of fixing a problem. If you break it down, you’ll see the compound has two words: problem and solving. Problem is a harmful situation that needs to be dealt with. Solving is the resolution to situations like problems.

When you put the two words together, you get “problem-solving”, or the methods people take to solve a problem. For example, if someone says “You have great problem-solving skills,” they mean you can solve problems well.

Since school revolves around solving problems, you will see the word “problem-solving” everywhere in school environments. The same applies to work. A lot of businesses require employees to think on their feet and adapt to different problems.

If you want to impress your bosses or professors, make sure you add a hyphen in between problem and solving so the word is spelled correctly. Without the hyphen, problem-solving is no longer the same word.

Multi-word expressions need to have hyphens between them if they are being used to describe a noun. When being used to describe a noun, you should always add a hyphen to “problem-solving.”

How To Use Problem-Solving In A Sentence

Problem-solving is an adjective, meaning you need to use it to describe a person, place, or thing. It can be both positive and negative depending on the context of the sentence. For example, if you say someone has bad problem-solving skills, that is a negative use of the word.

Here are a few examples of “problem-solving” used in a sentence:

• “Last week, John went to Amy and helped her work on her problem-solving skills.”
• “After watching Jessica quickly adapt to her new workload, I have concluded that she has amazing problem-solving skills.”
• “Problem-solving skills are important because they help you think on your feet, adapt to a wide variety of situations, and help others more effectively.”

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problem-solving

Definition of problem-solving

Examples of problem-solving in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'problem-solving.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Dictionary Entries Near problem-solving

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“Problem-solving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/problem-solving. Accessed 4 Jun. 2024.

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Hyphen Rules: Don’t Let Misused Hyphens Muddle Your Adjectives Or Your Writing

Mar 16, 2008 | Grammar and Usage , Proofreading , Punctuation

Rule 1: When compound adjectives come before a noun, the adjectives should be hyphenated.

Compound Adjective: two or more adjectives that work together to describe the same noun

Example 1: On Monday, Mrs. Thomas taught problem-solving skills to her class.

The compound adjective problem-solving tells what kind of skills Mrs. Thomas taught. Since these adjectives come before the noun and work together to describe the noun, it’s necessary to place a hyphen between them.

To understand why the hyphen is needed, remove it, then check the sentence’s meaning—it will be very different:

Example 2: On Monday, Mrs. Thomas taught problem solving skills to her class.

With no hyphen between the two adjectives, the writer’s meaning is unclear. Did Mrs. Thomas teach solving skills that were a problem ? Did she teach two types of skills to her class: problem skills and solving skills? Be sure that your punctuation reflects what you’re trying to say.

Also, watch for words that look like compound adjectives but are really separate, independent adjectives. Take a look at the following sentence:

Example 3: Stephen King is a successful, popular writer.

Here, successful and popular do not form a compound adjective; instead, they are two separate, independent adjectives describing writer , and a comma—rather than a hyphen—should be placed between them. Either word could be used by itself, and the sentence would make sense.

Rule 2: If the compound adjective comes after the noun it describes, no hyphen is needed.

Example 4: On Monday, Mrs. Thomas taught her class many skills, including problem solving .

Since problem solving follows the noun (skills), no hyphen is needed.

Sometimes writers may use what is called a suspending hyphen , a hyphen that is used when two or more adjectives have the same base element, and the base element is shown only with the last term. Consider the following examples:

Example 5: Although they couldn’t wait for their new furniture, Bill and Abby knew that there would be a three- to four-day delay in delivery.

Here, three and four share the base word day . The writer could have written three-day and four-day delay , but using the suspending hyphen creates writing that is more succinct and easier to read.

Example 6: Peter’s knowledge of the case was through second- and thirdhand information.

In this sentence, the hyphen after second tells the reader that second shares the same base element as thirdhand , which is, of course, hand . Again, using the suspending hyphen is more efficient than writing secondhand and thirdhand information .

So far, so good, right? Well, there is an exception to these basic hyphenation rules.

Rule 3: Do not hyphenate when the first of the two words ends in -ly.

Example 7: Maddie is an extremely overworked mother.

Extremely is an adverb. By definition, adverbs describe verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. In this sentence, extremely is not describing mother (which is a noun) but is telling how overworked Maddie is. Therefore, no hyphen is needed between extremely and overworked .

Rule 4: Watch for special hyphenated nouns.

Example 8: She was the runner-up in the beauty contest.

Other examples can include mother-in-law (and the other in-laws), best-seller, follow-up, etc. When in doubt about a hyphenated noun (as opposed to a compound word, such as letterhead or freeway), don’t guess. It’s always best to look it up in Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary (our dictionary of choice).

Hyphens may be disappearing in some cases (thanks to the Internet), but if you proofread your work carefully and follow these basic rules, they won’t trip you up! Learn more about Writer’s Relief expert proofreaders ! And once your work is proofread, why not use Writer’s Relief’s expertise? We can help target the best markets and boost your odds of getting an acceptance or securing agent representation. Learn more about our services and submit your writing sample to our Review Board today!

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problem noun

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What does the noun problem mean?

There are nine meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun problem , three of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

problem has developed meanings and uses in subjects including

How common is the noun problem ?

How is the noun problem pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun problem come from.

Earliest known use

Middle English

The earliest known use of the noun problem is in the Middle English period (1150—1500).

OED's earliest evidence for problem is from before 1382, in Bible (Wycliffite, early version) .

problem is of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin.

Etymons: French problème ; Latin problēma .

Nearby entries

• probing, adj. 1749–
• probingly, adv. 1876–
• probingness, n. 1800–
• probiotic, adj.¹ & n. 1953–
• probiotic, adj.² 1954–
• probit, n. 1934–
• probit analysis, n. 1944–
• probit line, n. 1942–
• probit unit, n. 1934–
• probity, n. c1425–
• problem, n. a1382–
• problem, v. 1645–55
• problemage, n. 1928–
• problematary, n. 1581
• problematic, adj. & n. 1609–
• problematical, adj. 1567–
• problematically, adv. 1588–
• problematicalness, n. 1951–
• problematique, n. 1970–
• problematist, n. 1668–
• problematize, v. 1631–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for problem, n..

problem, n. was revised in June 2007.

problem, n. was last modified in March 2024.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into problem, n. in March 2024.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1908)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

• View problem in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for problem, n., browse entry.

British Council India

How to improve your english spelling, by rajul goveas, 6 january 2022 - 11:24am.

Ever heard of ‘Spelling Bee’? Perhaps the first word is a giveaway! It is, believe it or not, a spelling contest where almost 11 million students participate every year. The contest started out really small around 90 years ago to help students improve their spelling and vocabulary, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage. Now, we are not looking at becoming ‘spell-a-thoners’, but improving spelling and vocabulary must definitely interest you, especially if you want to learn how to use English correctly. 

Where do we begin and how can we improve our spelling? Practice, practice, and more practice is the mantra! You can also follow some basic rules to keep learning and make it fun too!

Rules to learn spellings, you say? Don’t we just learn them by heart? Yes, there are simple rules to make learning spellings easier. All you need to do is understand the logic and the concept behind learning spelling. Then, learn the rules and don’t forget the exceptions too!  

1. Don’t spell words the way they are pronounced

Sometimes we drop letters while we speak or change the vowel sounds. For example, we drop the /d/ sound in ‘handkerchief’ and pronounce it as /ˈhæŋ.kə.tʃiːf/ (han-ker-chief). ‘Colonel’ has an ‘o’ but it is pronounced as /ˈkɜːnəl/ (kernel). ‘Yacht’ has and ‘a’ but is pronounced as /jɒt/ (yot).

2. Watch out for prefixes, suffixes and more

Learn more about correctly adding prefixes and suffixes, forming plurals, doubling letters, dropping and adding letters with examples in the table below. 

3. Beware of ‘ie’ or ‘ei’

A simple thumb rule here is: when we have a long vowel sound /i:/ as in the word brief, we spell it with ‘ie’.  e.g.  achieve, belief, diesel, niece, relieve. However, in words that have the letter ‘c’, we spell it as ‘ei’ after the ‘c’. e.g. ei after c - ceiling, conceit, deceive, receipt, perceive. Remember ‘i’ before and ‘e’ except when there’s a ‘c’! Words that do not have the long vowel /i:/ as in brief, follow the usual order, that is, ‘e’ before ‘i’.  e.g. neighbour, leisure, height. Of course, there are exceptions! The words friend, ancient, science are common deviants from this rule.

4. Silent letters – ignore them while speaking, include them while writing 

Don’t we pronounce all the letters in a word? No! Strange but true! There are some letters that we spell out in a word, but don’t say them when we speak. So remember to add them in while writing, but you can ignore them while speaking. Here are some classic everyday examples:

Silent B - debt, doubt, dumb Silent C - muscle, disciple, descend Silent G - design, foreign Silent P – psychology, receipt

Wow! Aren’t these a lot of rules! Don’t worry. Just start with the basics and try to understand them one at a time. Soon you’ll get the hang of it all. And where did I get these rules? From my best friend-the dictionary. In this case it is courtesy Cambridge, https://dictionary.cambridge.org/  

Ever thought of making friends with a dictionary? Do this if you are really interested in improving your spellings and building your vocabulary bank. There are some other good ones available online too. To name a couple:

1. Merriam-Webster 

2. Oxford Learners Dictionary 

Get down to the roots

A smart move to learn spelling - ask the question - where does the word come from?

Knowing or learning the origins of words is called ‘etymology’. The English language is influenced by many foreign languages like French, Greek, Italian, Latin, Roman, Spanish. Lately, several Indian words have been making their way into English dictionaries too. This means that the spelling of the word won’t often follow the rules of English grammar and pronunciation. So, how can we learn to spell is a million-dollar question! 

If the words originate from the same foreign language and have the same root (the basic part of a word that can be modified by adding prefixes or suffixes), we can notice patterns that help us with spelling skills. For example, words of Greek origin like psycho from psycho have a silent ‘p’.  The root word ‘bene’ from Latin, which means ‘well’ forms part of words like benefactor, benefit. If you have reached here it means you are still with me, and therefore here’s your bonus!

Differences between British English and American English

Differences in British English (BE) and American English (AmE) can sometimes cause trouble too. We have largely focused on BE here, but let’s look at differences between two.

•Spellings with ‘s’ or ‘ z’

IELTS test givers please note: Both spellings are accepted as long as you don’t mix the two in your writing. Follow one style.

•Vocabulary

Do you want chips (AmE) or crisps (BE)? Would you like some cookies (AmE) with your tea or biscuits (BE)? Oh! Never mind. Just bring a plateful of both-whatever you want to call them is what I would say with a smile. And here’s one more for you. Do you wear trousers (BE) or pants (AmE)? Eh? Both right? Many-a-time these two words become a joke - simply a question of the British saying, what is worn as an outer by you is an inner for us. And so the list goes on! Read on for a few more examples.

Yes, there are differences in grammar, but that’s something that you need not worry about right now! The important thing to note is even though there are differences there are more similarities. To communicate you can use either BE or AmE, and if you use BE instead of AE or vice versa chances of miscommunication are rare so don’t beat yourself up if you can’t remember the shades of both languages.

Oh!…wait…talking about British and American English, what about accent? Does that matter? I don’t think so! You just have to spell and pronounce the words correctly. It would be a good idea though, if you learnt the diacritics, which are small symbols found above words in a dictionary. These tell you how and where to put an accent on a word. And not to forget phonetics in language which help to develop your pronunciation and speaking skills. This is a whole new subject we will deal with in another blog. However, if you’re curious what this is, here’s a link to download the phonemic chart.  

How can I improve my English spelling?

Here are some easy-to-follow strategies you can work on yourself to improve your spellings. 

• Think of all the words you have a problem with or the ones whose spellings you want to remember. A simple strategy you could try to become a ‘spell-a-thoner’ is the 3-columns guide. 

• In the ‘first’ column, write all the words you want to learn.

• In the ‘second’ column, write the same words as many times as you want without looking at them

• In the ‘third’ column, which is your real test, write the words that you have finally remembered and spelt correctly. This last one is a ‘feel good’ column as you will be able to see how far you have come. 

• Look up new words and note them down to learn and add to your 3-column guide

• Curiosity about new words won’t kill you, but will only make you stronger, helping you learn a few words every day

• Google will throw up an endless pool of resources, but the two that I would definitely recommend are:

-  BBC Teach – Skillswise, Spellings -  Here you will find useful techniques to help with your spelling using memory aids, common letter patterns, root words etc.

-  Johnny Grammar’s Word Challenge  -  Want to earn Word Wizard and Supreme Speller badges? You can complete all the levels on this app which tests common vocabulary and spelling that appear in everyday English.

•Rope in your family and ask them to check your spellings, just like way back when you were in school. They can be great coaches. Or get yourself a spelling partner                which is even better!

•Use flash cards or post-its’ with tricky words and stick them where you can see them

•Categorise words according to their roots or the number of letters each word has

•Break up long words into small parts (syllables) to remember them

•Think of words that have a similar pronunciation

•Challenge yourself with word games like ‘Invisible man’, ‘Scrabble’ or do ‘Crosswords’.

•Connect with the words as they roll off your tongue, get that passion and love within you for learning new words.

There is no one-size-fits-all method for learning. You know too, that some words are just unusual and there’s no easy way to learn them except by heart. It’s difficult to memorise lists of words so get on with your reading which is the best way come across new words and be challenged to spell. There is no magical shortcut, and it is certainly not a cake walk, but it is within you to make spelling your very own special piece of cake. The benefits are enhanced communication skills because of a rich ‘vocablary’ or is it vocabulary? Look it up!

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Bridging the labor mismatch in US construction

The US construction sector seems set for a jobs boom. The US Bipartisan Infrastructure Law  projects $550 billion of new infrastructure investment over the next decade, which our modeling suggests could create 3.2 million new jobs across the nonresidential construction value chain. That’s approximately a 30 percent increase in the overall US nonresidential construction workforce, which would mean 300,000 to 600,000 new workers entering the sector—every year.

This is a big ask for an industry that is already struggling to find the people it needs. In October 2021, 402,000 construction positions 1 Included both nonresidential and residential construction openings. Further granularity is not available from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. remained unfilled at the end of the month, the second-highest level recorded since data collection began in December 2000.

In this environment, wages have already increased significantly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting intense competition for employees, with employers offering higher pay or other nonwage benefits. Between December 2019 and 2021, construction wages grew by 7.9 percent. 2 Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Competition from other sectors for the same pool of labor is heating up, too. For example, over the same period, transportation and warehousing wages grew by 12.6 percent. The prospect of higher pay and better working conditions is already tempting experienced workers away from construction and into these and other sectors.

No end in sight

Today’s mismatches are likely to persist because of structural shifts in the labor market. The relationship between job openings and unemployment has departed from historical trends. In January 2022—two years from the start of the pandemic—the US unemployment rate stood at 4.0 percent, close to its prepandemic level of 3.5 percent. Job openings remained exceptionally high, however, with 10.9 million unfilled positions as of the end of December 2021, compared with 5.9 million in December 2019.

This labor supply imbalance has multiple root causes, some shorter term and cyclical while others are more structural in nature. For example, the pandemic brought forward the retirements of many in the baby-boomer generation, with an estimated 3.2 million leaving the workforce in 2020—over a million more than in any year before 2016. According to the American Opportunity Survey , among those who are unemployed, concerns about physical health, mental health, and lack of childcare remain the dominant impediments preventing reentry into the workforce. Research on the “Great Attrition/Great Attraction”  also highlights the importance of nonwage components of the employee value proposition. Record job openings and quit rates highlight employees’ growing emphasis on feeling valued by their organization, supportive management, and flexibility and autonomy at work.

Additionally, the pipeline of new construction workers is not flowing as freely as it once did. Training programs have been slow to restart operations after pandemic-driven safety concerns led to their suspension the spring of 2020. The industry is finding it more difficult to attract the international workforce that has been an important source of talent for engineering, design, and contracting activities. Net migration has been falling since 2016, a trend accelerated by COVID-19 travel restrictions. 3 Population estimates, US Census Bureau. Between 2016 and 2021, net migration declined steadily from 1.06 million to 244,000.

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Impact on projects.

The interconnected nature of the construction value chain means that the labor mismatch generates knock-on effects across the project life cycle and supply chain. By late 2021, project owners were reporting that up to 25 percent of material deliveries to sites were either late or incomplete. In project execution, the combination of higher hourly rates, premiums and incentives, and overtime payments was resulting in overall labor costs as much as double prepandemic levels. Meanwhile, difficulty accessing skilled and experienced people was leading some owners to report project delays related to issues around the quality and productivity of on-site work.

In some US cities and their suburbs, wage growth has surpassed the level seen in core Gulf Coast counties at the height of the shale oil boom. Labor shortages in the shale sector drove wages up by 5 to 10 percent and were correlated with steep drops in productivity. The productivity of some tasks fell by 40 percent or more during shale construction peaks (exhibit), and overall productivity declined by about 40 percent per year when labor was in short supply. This forced owners to extend project timelines by 20 to 25 percent. The impact of a long-term, nationwide labor mismatch might be even more severe than the shale industry’s experience, given that oil companies were able to attract new workers from around the country.

Getting back into balance

The labor mismatch in the construction sector is bad today, and set to get worse. To avoid a decade or more of rising costs, falling productivity, and ever-increasing project delays, companies in the industry should consider thoughtful actions now.

Those actions could address three components of the challenge. First, companies could do everything possible to maximize productivity through measures aimed at improving efficiency across the value chain. Second, they could expand the pool of available labor by doubling down on accessing diverse talent and working harder to retain the employees already in their organization. Finally, they could consider making labor a strategic priority, with senior leadership attention within companies.

Improving construction productivity

Companies could access a range of levers to reduce the labor content required per job and drive to improve productivity in project development and delivery. Those levers involve changes to project designs and fresh thinking about when, where, and how work is done.

Improvements in productivity occur long before work starts on the ground. They include rigorous control of project scope, design simplification, and standardization. Increasing the use of off-site and modular construction , for example, could allow projects to capture multiple benefits, including accelerated design cycles; the greater productivity associated with industrialized, factory floor manufacturing techniques; automation; and less time spent on site.

Smarter execution management, enabled by digital technologies and analytics techniques could drive better, faster decision making during project delivery. Real-time data collection, for example, gives project managers earlier, more detailed insights about progress, allowing them to intervene more effectively to maintain productivity and keep projects on track. Intelligent simulation software allows teams to evaluate hundreds of thousands of possible critical paths, identifying approaches that could be more efficient or less risky than the conventional wisdom.

Lean construction is another proven way to drive significant and sustainable productivity improvements. Establishing a centralized, continuous improvement engine could enhance on-site execution through integrated planning, performance management, and waste elimination. Key stakeholders across the project work with a common, agreed set of key performance indicators. That allows them to address issues in real time and facilitates collaboration to reduce waste and variability work. Capability building across the planning and construction teams could help team members understand and adopt lean construction practices.

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Reimagining talent.

To ensure access to the skills they need, construction sector companies can accelerate the onboarding of recruits, boost retention by revisiting what employees want beyond wages, and invest more in developing their pipelines of future workers.

In the near term, employers could prioritize review of job applications and reduce the number of steps in both the interview and onboarding process. In the medium term, both the public and private sectors could look to reduce hiring timelines and shift to a skills-based approach when hiring.

In the medium term, retaining current staff and attracting new talent will both turn on understanding of what employees value beyond wages. Competitive wages are now table stakes, so employees are thinking about a broader set of benefits and workplace characteristics when making decisions about where to work. Research on attrition in the postpandemic workplace  has shown that they are placing more emphasis on autonomy, flexibility, support, and upward mobility.

In the longer term, the construction industry can consider a new approach to talent attraction, development, and retention. Talent acquisition could begin early, through partnerships with educational institutions including universities, colleges, and high schools. These partnerships could boost awareness of the possibilities of a career in the sector and ensure future employees have appropriate skills prior to onboarding.

Companies could also look more widely for potential recruits, considering individuals who have taken alternative educational paths, such as technical degrees or hands-on experience. The Rework America Alliance , a Markle-led coalition in which McKinsey is a partner, illustrates the importance of skills-based, rather than credential-based, hiring. A skills-based perspective  is key to tapping into the talents of the 106 million workers who have built capabilities through experience but whose talents are often unrecognized because they don’t have a four-year college degree. A skills-based approach could be complemented by reimagining apprenticeships to bring younger students and vocational talent into the industry at an earlier stage in their careers.

Employers could consider working with a range of nontraditional sources of talent, including veteran-transition programs, formerly incarcerated individuals, and others. Homeboy Industries provides an example of the local impact, effectiveness, and potential of working with often overlooked population segments. Moreover, identifying and attracting talent from outside the traditional paths used by the construction industry could also help it to increase the diversity of its workforce. Today, 88 percent of the sector’s workforce is White and 89 percent is male. 4 Labor Force Statistics from the Current Population Survey Database, US Bureau of Labor Statistics, accessed March 10, 2022.

Looking at labor through a strategic lens

Labor and skills shortages have the potential to slow growth and erode profitability across the construction value chain. For C-suites, there’s no other single issue that could protect against significant cost erosion. Companies could consider establishing a systematic talent acquisition and retention program, led by a C-level executive and a core part of the CEO agenda. That program could first be tasked with building a robust fact base on current and emerging labor needs and availability gaps. It could then identify a bold set of initiatives that address labor-related issues across the value chain. This exercise starts in the boardroom, but it doesn’t stop there. Leadership will likely need to be increasingly present in the field and on the job site too, celebrating and recognizing top talent throughout the organization.

The labor challenge extends well beyond corporate boundaries. Since the successful delivery of a project could be jeopardized by labor shortages in a single value-chain participant, project owners and contractors may want to adapt the structure of project relationships and contracts. Moving away from traditional contracting methods to collaborative contracts , for example, allows participants to share market risks and opportunities as a project evolves, rather than baking in worst-case estimates at the outset of negotiations.

The US construction sector is poised to revitalize, replace, and expand the country’s infrastructure. Done right, that will power inclusive growth and set up the economy for success in the 21st century. To do so, the sector will need to address its labor challenges. That calls for the application of a diverse set of tools and approaches to create better jobs, get the most out of its people, and optimize agility and collaboration across the value chain.

Garo Hovnanian is a partner in McKinsey’s Philadelphia office, Ryan Luby is a senior knowledge expert in the New York office, and Shannon Peloquin is a partner in the Bay Area office.

The authors wish to thank Tim Bacon, Luis Campos, Roberto Charron, Justin Dahl, Rebecca de Sa, Bonnie Dowling, Bryan Hancock, Rawad Hasrouni, Adi Kumar, Jonathan Law, Michael Neary, Nikhil Patel, Gaby Pierre, Jose Maria Quiros, Kurt Schoeffler, Shubham Singhal, Stephanie Stefanski, Jennifer Volz, and Jonathan Ward for their contributions to this article.

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