► problema situation that causes difficulties: Our main problem is lack of funds. The country has huge economic problems.
► troubles/difficulties problems caused by something not working in the way it should. Difficulties sounds more formal than troubles: The country’s financial difficulties will not be easily solved. Our troubles began when I lost my job.
► setback a problem that stops you from making progress: The space program suffered a major setback when the space shuttle, “Discovery” exploded.
► complication a problem that makes something even more confusing or difficult: We ran into several unexpected complications when trying to renovate the old house.
► snag informal a problem, especially one that you had not expected: The project has hit a major snag.
► hitch a small problem that delays or prevents something: The event happened without a hitch.
► pitfall a problem that is likely to happen in a particular job or activity: The book helps you avoid some of the pitfalls of buying a used car.