👉❌

How to Say ‘That's a problem’ in Portuguese

Isso é um problema

EE-soo eh oon pro-BLEH-ma

[EE-soo eh oon pro-BLEH-ma]

🇵🇹 In Portugal: This is clear and natural, but in a dispute it raises the temperature a little because you're explicitly labelling the situation as a problem. Softer options might sound more cooperative.

Phrase Breakdown

Isso

[EE-soo]

This

A pronoun used to refer to a specific thing close at hand or being indicated.

Example

Isso é um problema que precisamos resolver.

This is a problem we need to solve.

[eh]

Connects the subject of the sentence with a predicate (such as a descriptive word, a noun, or an entire proposition).

Example

O que é complicado é o problema.

What is complicated is the problem.

Um problema

oon pro-BLEH-ma

Words in this phrase

[oon]

Used with singular nouns when the noun is not specific or mentioned for the first time.

Example

É um problema mental.

It is a mental problem.

problema

[pro-BLEH-ma]

Problem

A difficulty that needs to be improved or solved.

Example

O problema estava no pagamento.

The problem was with the payment.

Guides for Portuguese learners

The Portuguese You Actually Need in Your First Month in PortugalThe European Portuguese phrases for your first weeks in Portugal: paperwork, renting a flat, the bank, the health centre, cafés, trains and your new neighbours.

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

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Moved to Lisbon with zero Portuguese and honestly thought I’d be pointing at menus forever. Three weeks in and I’m having real conversations with my landlord.”

Priya N., 35, Freelance Designer

“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”

Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager

“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