problemer

Problemer is a noun used in Danish and Norwegian to denote difficulties, issues, or matters that require resolution. It covers a wide range of senses, from practical malfunctions and obstacles in a process to more abstract or personal difficulties. The term is also used for mathematical problems or exercises. In everyday language, it appears in phrases such as løse problemer (to solve problems) or have problemer (to have difficulties). The word forms a plural with the ending -er, while the singular form is problem.

Etymology and usage notes: The word derives from the Latin problemata, via the French problème, and has been incorporated into Danish and Norwegian through historical contact with continental European languages. In both languages, the plural problemer refers to multiple issues or challenges, while problem is the singular form. The term is neutral and versatile, appearing in casual speech, journalism, education, and technical writing. In technical contexts, problemer can refer to faults or issues in systems, processes, or software, as in a report on “problemer i systemet.” Although closely related in meaning to English problems, brukes is chiefly Danish and Norwegian, reflecting the shared Nordic linguistic heritage.