Difference between Issue, Problem and Situation
We all know there are loads of synonyms floating around in various literary mediums and it can be difficult to distinguish the differences of the near-synonyms. Many of us could perceive that we have a situation and in them underlying issues that remain to be resolved then a problem arises from not understanding all three. Do you know the difference between an issue, a problem and a situation? It seems that these three words in this usage form a kind of paradox when using them interchangeably. We are going to take a look at each word and determine the relative differences in each word. After looking at the definitions, you will be able to determine how these words can be near-synonyms of each other and each word can virtually mean the same thing but, in fact, they are distinctly different.
Issue
The word issue has many meanings but in this case we will keep the meaning contained to its context. The underlying question that is in the middle of a dispute that must be rectified or the lesser of two evils contains a vague form in the meaning of issue. A chain reaction that happens because of some previous situation may be interpreted as an issue. Two popular meanings of issue include to assert a document and to issue a citation. An issue of a magazine, an issue of postal stamps, issued a outfit; these are relatively small examples of how the word is used in context.
Situation
The meaning of situation is more narrowly defined. It means a state of being in things. A mixture of circumstantial events at a particular time. Maybe a difficult situation or a predicament. The word can be used as; the building was situated between the smaller ones. But this will create a situation.
Problem
Problems arise every day. It creates a matter of difficulty that needs to be rectified. Maybe you had a difficult problem on an assignment for school? The word is usually referenced to a specific difficulty that causes distress and is complicated to solve with ease.
Similarities and Differences
- Where there is an issue, there is bound to be a problem, and when there is a problem, there is a difficult situation. A problem has the benefits of being solvable.
- Whereas a situation is something that needs to be manageable. A situation does not necessarily mean that there is a problem but is more likely that it is relative to having an issue.
- Issue can be relative to a state of mind that is directed to something specific, such as, I have an issue with the problem because it brings up bad memories.
It is difficult to distinguish between a problem and a situation, for example; a man is complaining to a cashier at McDonalds about receiving the wrong food with the wrong topping, the cashier goes to the manager and says, "Sir, we have a situation", then the manager goes up to the customer and asks, "What seems to be the problem sir?" It is clear that all three words can be used interchangeably and is suitable to accommodate daily life situations, issues, and problems.
