(もんだい)

もんだい
noun
problem, question
1. question, problem (on a test)
A question to be answered or a problem to be solved, typically in an academic context such as on exams or homework.
この問題(もんだい)(むずか)しいです。
This problem is difficult.
If you don't understand the question, please ask the teacher.
問題(もんだい)()いてみてください
Please try solving the problem.
この問題(もんだい)(こた)(なん)です
What is the answer to this question?
There are ten questions in total.
2. problem, issue, trouble
A matter that needs to be addressed or solved, a difficulty or concern.
この問題(もんだい)(むずか)しいです。
This problem is difficult.
問題(もんだい)ありません
No problem.
Very common expression meaning 'it's fine' or 'don't worry'
それ(おお)きな問題(もんだい)です。
That is a big problem.
Was there any problem?
We must solve the problem.
We discussed environmental issues.

問題(もんだい) covers both "question" (academic) and "problem/issue" (general).

ACADEMIC USAGE:

  • 問題(もんだい)()く: to solve a problem (on a test)
  • 問題(もんだい)(こた)え: the answer to a question
  • 選択(せんたく)問題(もんだい): multiple choice question
  • 記述(きじゅつ)問題(もんだい): written response question

GENERAL USAGE:

  • 問題(もんだい)解決(かいけつ)する: to resolve an issue
  • 問題(もんだい)()きる: a problem arises
  • 環境(かんきょう)問題(もんだい): environmental issues
  • 社会(しゃかい)問題(もんだい): social problems

COMMON EXPRESSIONS:

  • 問題(もんだい)ない: no problem (casual)
  • 問題(もんだい)ありません: no problem (polite)
  • それが問題(もんだい)だ: that's the problem

The counter for test questions is 〜(もん): 十問(じゅうもん) (10 questions).