"what the problem was" vs "what was the problem"

Question

"what the problem was" vs "what was the problem"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'What was the problem' is a more common and natural way to ask about a specific issue that occurred in the past. 'What the problem was' is used when emphasizing the problem itself rather than asking a direct question.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to emphasize the problem itself rather than asking a direct question. It is often used in a sentence to provide information or to highlight a particular aspect of the problem.

Examples:

I finally understood what the problem was.
Let's discuss what the problem was before we move on.
She explained to me what the problem was with the project.

Alternatives:

The problem was what?
What was the problem?
The problem was that...

This phrase is used to ask about a specific issue that occurred in the past. It is a direct question seeking information about the problem.

Examples:

What was the problem that caused the delay?
Can you tell me what was the problem with the machine?
I wonder what was the problem with the internet connection.

Alternatives:

What was wrong?
What was the issue?
What was the matter?

Answer 1

what the problem was

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

Answer 2

what was the problem

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"what the problem was" vs "what was the problem"

what the problem was

what was the problem

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