Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Suzanne]

Hi, again!

Rather than continue to provide more confusing examples and explanations, I'm going to suggest a few things:

1. Go back through the thread and read all the entries. You may want to make a list of the "issues" and "problems" to see the patterns.
2. Remember that English, like all languages, is constantly changing. I don't recall "issues" being used in place of "problem" before 10-12 years ago. It has become preferred, but it is not rigid.
3. Don't try too hard to always find the exact or perfect word. Native speakers certainly don't! Many would rely more on voice intonation, rather than choosing between "issue" and "problem."
4. Language has many nuances, and only by using them do we become familiar. Don't try to memorize all the different applications--that will make you hesitate when you speak. It's better to work on fluency than to worry about a word choice, especially when there are often similarities.

Relax! Your English is excellent!

[learner1]

Hello Suzanne,
Although you didn't answer my questions in my last post, I have to thank you for all your best help with the thread and your helpful advice.

Have a nice day!