social problems

[ˈsoʊʃəl ˈprɑːbləmz]
noun phrase
problemas sociais
1. Issues or challenges that negatively affect society and its members, such as poverty, crime, inequality, or homelessness
The government is committed to addressing social problems in urban areas.
O governo está comprometido em resolver problemas sociais nas áreas urbanas.
2. Difficulties arising from relationships between individuals or groups within a community
Social problems like discrimination and prejudice require continuous education.
Problemas sociais como discriminação e preconceito requerem educação contínua.
3. Academic field of study examining issues affecting society and communities
She is researching social problems as part of her sociology degree.
Ela está pesquisando problemas sociais como parte de seu curso de sociologia.
In Brazil, discussions of social problems often center on favelas, economic inequality, and access to education and healthcare. In the USA, the term frequently appears in political discourse regarding poverty, homelessness, and systemic racism. Both cultures recognize this as a serious academic and policy concern.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
social issuessocietal challengespublic problemscommunity issues
Antonyms / Antônimos
social harmonysocial stabilitycommunity well-being

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
problemas sociais
Standard usage throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
problemas sociais
Commonly discussed in context of favelas and urban inequality
São Paulo
problemas sociais
Frequently used in academic and policy discussions
Portugal
problemas sociais
Identical usage; may emphasize European social context

Related Words

povertyinequalitycrimeunemploymenthealthcareeducationdiscriminationhomelessness

Related Idioms & Phrases

address social problems
tackle social issues
combat social ills
root causes of social problems
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