en problemas
/en pɾoblemas/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'in trouble' is translated into Spanish as en problemas.
en problemas is the standard way to say that someone is suffering difficulties. You may also use en apuros to describe being in a difficult or urgent situation.
Meaning: suffering difficulties (prep_phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase en problemas is a literal translation of 'in problems', consisting of the preposition en (in) and the plural noun problemas (problems).
Which one should you use?
While en problemas is the standard expression, en apuros can specifically imply being in a bind or a tight spot.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the phrase Estoy en un apuro is a common way to say 'I'm in trouble'.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the action of 'getting into' trouble, Spanish speakers often use the pronominal verb meterse (to put oneself) followed by en problemas.
How do you pronounce it?
/en pɾoblemas/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, if someone is in serious trouble with the law, they might say they are en un lío instead of en problemas. This uses the word for 'mess' to describe a chaotic or complicated situation.
- The word apuro comes from the verb apurar, which means to hasten or press, showing that being 'in trouble' in this sense is linked to a lack of time.
- While en problemas refers to general difficulties, the word apuro can also refer to the physical sensation of being squeezed or cramped, reflecting the feeling of being 'in a tight spot'.
Examples in context
- Él está en problemas.He is in trouble.This sentence is useful for stating that he is en problemas.Tatoeba #1675565 by marcelostockle, translation #289969 by CK
- Estás en problemas, ¿no?You're in trouble, aren't you?This sentence is useful for asking if someone is en problemas.Tatoeba #10211775 by manufrutos, translation #1994407 by CK
- ¿Te metiste en problemas?Did you get in trouble?Tatoeba #2099515 by marcelostockle, translation #1994493 by CK
- 69 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucía and Daniel are discussing a coworker's situation at the office.
- Lucía¿Sabes si Marcos está en problemas?Do you know if Marcos is in trouble?
- DanielSí, parece que tiene problemas con el jefe.Yes, it seems he is having trouble with the boss.
- LucíaPobre hombre, espero que no sea nada grave.Poor man, I hope it is nothing serious.
- DanielYo también, pero parece que está en problemas serios.Me too, but it seems he is in serious trouble.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
