problemi

Problemi is the Italian masculine noun whose plural form is problemi. It denotes any matter that requires a solution, a difficulty, or an obstacle that hinders progress. The word is common in everyday speech as well as in technical, scientific, and organizational contexts. Etymologically, problema comes from Latin via Greek: from Latin problema, itself borrowed from the Greek πρόβλημα (próblēma), meaning a thing put forward or a question proposed.

In mathematics and logic, a problema is a question or task to be solved or a situation that must be analyzed to reach an answer. In general use, it refers to a difficulty or complication that needs addressing, such as technical problems, health problems, or social problems. The plural form, problemi, is used when speaking of several issues. Diminutives exist in Italian, such as problemi piccoli or problemucci in informal speech, though the standard plural remains problematic.

Usage and nuance: phrases like risolvere un problema (to solve a problem), affrontare i problemi (to confront the problems), and avere problemi (to have problems) are common. The word can refer to practical obstacles, theoretical questions, or ethical and social concerns, depending on context. In technical and organizational discourse, the term often contrasts with soluzioni or rimedi, highlighting the need for remediation rather than mere description of the issue.