problémával

Problémával is a Hungarian word-form: it is the instrumental singular form of the noun problém a, meaning "a problem." The form denotes accompaniment or means and is used to indicate “with a problem” in various expressions, such as dealing with, facing, or handling a problem. Common verb combinations include problémával foglalkozik (deals with a problem), problémával küzd (struggles with a problem), or problémával szembenéz (faces a problem).

Etymology and origin: The Hungarian noun problém a is a loanword that entered Hungarian from French problém e (with the acute accent in Hungarian spelling), which itself derives from Latin and Greek roots (problem a from Greek problema, Latin problemā or problemē). The instrumental suffix -val/-vel is a productive and widespread Hungarian ending used to express means, instrument, accompaniment, or a related circumstance.

Grammar and formation: The suffix -val/-vel attaches to the stem problém-, and because the base ends with a vowel, the form becomes protéproblemá? No. The correct spelling is problémával, with the linking vowel and orthography that preserve smooth pronunciation. The form is used for singular, instrumental function and corresponds to other instrumental forms such as könyvvel (with a book) or barátommal (with my friend). In sentences, problémával answers questions like “mivel?” (with what?).

Usage notes: Problémával can combine with inanimate or animate subjects when the meaning is “with a problem” in a metaphorical sense (a challenge, obstacle). It is less common to use it to mean possession of a problem, where other constructions (pl. problémája van) may be preferable.

Examples:

- A projekt problémával indult. (The project started with a problem.)

- A cég problémával küzd. (The company is grappling with a problem.)

- A tanár problémával foglalkozik a diákokkal. (The teacher deals with a problem among the students.)