How to Say ‘I have a problem.’ in French
J'ai un problème.
zh ay uhn proh-blem
[zh ay uhn proh-blem]
Phrase Breakdown
J'ai
zh ay
I have
Used with avoir to say you have something or to express a state.
J'ai faim.
I am hungry.
Words in this phrase
J'
[zh]
I have
Shortened form of je used before a vowel sound; part of the expression meaning I have.
J' ai un souci avec la chaudière.
I have an issue with the boiler.
ai
[ay]
have
Form of avoir used with j' to say I have.
J'ai un problème depuis ce matin.
I have a problem since this morning.
Un problème
uhn proh-blem
a problem
A noun phrase meaning an issue or difficulty.
J'ai un problème.
I have a problem.
Words in this phrase
un
[uhn]
a
Masculine singular indefinite article meaning a or an.
Un voisin a eu le même souci.
A neighbor had the same issue.
problème
[proh-blem]
problem
Something that is wrong or needs fixing.
Ce problème concerne l'eau chaude.
This problem concerns the hot water.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Moved to Lyon for a culinary apprenticeship. The food and restaurant scenarios were exactly what I needed — my French colleagues were genuinely impressed.”
Tom H., 38, Chef
“Studying in Paris and the academic French I learned in school was useless for daily life. This app filled the gap in weeks, not months.”
Nina W., 29, Graduate Student
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer