“Issue” vs. “Problem”: What’s the Difference?

A line illustration of two people with their mouth open, and a giant question mark between them.

The difference between “issue” and “problem”

  • An issue may not necessarily be harmful or negative, while a problem is typically undesirable.
  • Issues are important topics for discussion that are part of regular operations, while problems are negative disruptions to operations.
  • Addressing an issue may require a less substantial solution than solving a problem.
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What is the definition of “issue” and “problem”?

Issue
  • An issue refers to a matter or concern that needs to be addressed.
  • It may involve a disagreement or conflict between parties.
  • It can also be a topic or subject for discussion or debate.
Problem
  • A problem refers to a situation in which something is not working as it should be.
  • It can arise from a variety of causes, such as errors in production, equipment failure, or human error.
  • It requires a solution to be identified and implemented to restore proper functioning.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Problem” is the more popular variant on the web.
Issue
3,010,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The issue with the new policy is that it has caused confusion among employees.
  2. The main issue we're facing is the lack of funding for our project.
  3. It's important to address the issue of climate change to ensure a sustainable future.
More popular
Problem
3,740,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The problem with this machine is that it keeps malfunctioning.
  2. The biggest problem I'm facing at work is the workload; it's too overwhelming.
  3. The problem with social media is that it can have a negative impact on mental health.
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