certain problem

[ˈsɜːr.tən ˈprɑː.bləm]
noun phrasepl: certain problems
problema certo / problema específico
1. A specific, defined problem that has been identified or is being discussed
We need to address a certain problem with the software before launch.
Precisamos resolver um problema específico com o software antes do lançamento.
2. A particular issue or difficulty that is clearly understood or recognized
There's a certain problem we've been facing with customer retention.
Há um problema em particular que estamos enfrentando com a retenção de clientes.
3. An issue that is definite but may not be explicitly named
I sense a certain problem with your proposal, though I can't quite articulate it yet.
Percebo um certo problema com sua proposta, embora ainda não consiga articulá-lo bem.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian professional contexts when discussing issues that are defined but may require further elaboration. In Brazil, 'problema certo' may emphasize definiteness, while 'problema específico' emphasizes particularity. The phrase is neutral and formal, appearing frequently in business, academic, and technical discussions.
NYC Slang
a real issue / a legit problem
Synonyms / Sinônimos
specific problemparticular issuedefinite difficultyidentified problemconcrete problem
Antonyms / Antônimos
uncertain problemvague issueunclear difficulty

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
problema certo / problema específico
Most common usage; generally understood across Brazil
São Paulo
um problema em particular
Slightly more formal; often used in business contexts
Rio de Janeiro
certo problema
Natural and common colloquial usage
Portugal
um certo problema / problema específico
Similar usage; equally understood in European Portuguese

Related Words

problemissuedifficultychallengeconcernmatter

Related Idioms & Phrases

address a certain problem
identify a certain problem
tackle a certain problem
face a certain problem
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