societal problems

[səˈsaɪ.ə.təl ˈprɑː.bləmz]
noun phrasepl: N/A (already plural)
problemas sociais
1. Issues or challenges that affect communities, societies, or populations as a whole, such as poverty, crime, inequality, healthcare access, or education disparities
Societal problems like homelessness and drug addiction require comprehensive government policies.
Problemas sociais como falta de moradia e vício em drogas exigem políticas governamentais abrangentes.
2. Structural or systemic difficulties that impact the well-being and functioning of society at large
Climate change is one of the most pressing societal problems of our time.
A mudança climática é um dos problemas sociais mais urgentes de nossa época.
In Brazil, discussions of 'problemas sociais' are particularly prominent in academic, political, and media contexts, given the country's significant socioeconomic disparities. The term is widely used in policy debates, sociology, and social activism. In the United States, 'societal problems' is commonly used in academic discourse, political rhetoric, and social justice movements to frame systemic issues requiring collective action.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
social issuessocial problemspublic issuescommunity challengessocial challenges
Antonyms / Antônimos
social solutionscommunity benefits

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
problemas sociais
Most common and neutral usage
Rio de Janeiro
problemas da sociedade
Alternative phrasing emphasizing societal impact
São Paulo
problemas sociais / questões sociais
Both terms widely used; 'questões sociais' emphasizes debate aspect
Portugal
problemas sociais
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; no significant regional variation

Related Words

social welfarepublic policyinequalitypovertycrimehealthcareeducation

Related Idioms & Phrases

the root of the problem
tackle societal problems
address social issues
social ill
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