Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Problem | /pʁoˈbleːm/ | neuter |
| Schwierigkeit | /ˈʃviːʁɪçkaɪ̯t/ | feminine |
| Verzögerung | feminine |
When referring to a hitch as a general problem, a source of difficulty or a delay, German uses different nouns. To express the English idiom 'without a hitch' regarding a process going smoothly, use the phrase ohne Probleme. If you are referring to a physical hitch, such as a linkage or a coupling, the term die Anhängerkupplung is used.
Which one should you use?
Use Problem for a general issue or difficulty. Use Schwierigkeit when the hitch implies a specific level of complexity or a difficulty that must be overcome. Use Verzögerung specifically when the hitch refers to a delay or a hitch in timing.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of Problem is Probleme. The plural of Schwierigkeit is Schwierigkeiten. The plural of Verzögerung is Verzögerungen.
How do you pronounce it?
/pʁoˈbleːm/
Did you know?
- In German, when you say something went 'without a hitch', you often use the phrase reibungslos, which literally means 'without friction'.
- In a professional German context, if a 'hitch' is a delay, you might hear the term Engpass, which literally means 'narrow pass' or 'bottleneck'.
- Using the word Problem for a minor 'hitch' can sound more severe in German than in English, as it often implies a formal issue requiring a serious solution.
Examples in context
- Der Raketenstart verlief ohne Probleme.The rocket launch went without a hitch.This sentence is useful for learning how to say 'without a hitch' using the form Problem.Tatoeba #8641589 by Melang, translation #11235251 by sundown
- Wir brauchen eine Anhängerkupplung für den Campingurlaub mit unserem Wohnwagen.We need a trailer hitch for the camping trip with our caravan.
- Das ist ein kleines Problem.That is a small problem.
- Wir haben ein Problem mit dem Computer.We have a problem with the computer.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Laura are discussing their travel plans.
- LukasGibt es ein Problem mit dem Zug?Is there a problem with the train?
- LauraJa, er hat leider Verspätung.Yes, unfortunately it is delayed.
- LukasDas ist ein großes Problem für uns.That is a big problem for us.
- LauraKeine Sorge, wir finden eine Lösung.Don't worry, we will find a solution.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hitch” translations and entries Problem, Schwierigkeit, Verzögerung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
