English - Basic Problems

I have a problem.

State that there is a problem

Meaning: “I have a problem.” = Say there is a problem.

When to use: Use it to start explaining trouble politely and clearly.

Something is wrong.

Say that something is not correct or not okay

Meaning: “Something is wrong.” = Say something is not correct or not okay.

When to use: Use it when you do not know the exact problem yet.

It doesn't work.

Say that a thing or service is not functioning

Meaning: “It doesn’t work.” = Say a thing or service is not functioning.

When to use: Use it for machines, cards, apps, keys, or services.

Tip: Say “It doesn’t work,” not “It no work.”

I lost ___.

State that something is lost

Meaning: “I lost ___.” = Say something is lost.

When to use: Use it with an object you cannot find.

Tip: Use “I lost my bag” for an object. Use “I’m lost” when you do not know where you are.

I'm lost.

State that one does not know where one is or where to go

Meaning: “I’m lost.” = Say you do not know where you are or where to go.

When to use: Use it when you need directions.

I feel sick.

State a simple health problem

Meaning: “I feel sick.” = Say you feel ill or physically unwell.

When to use: Use it for a general health problem.

There is no ___.

State that something needed is missing or unavailable

Meaning: “There is no ___.” = Say something needed is missing or unavailable.

When to use: Use it when something is not there.

I can't open ___.

state that you cannot open something

Meaning: “I can’t open ___.” = Say you cannot open something.

When to use: Use it for doors, bags, files, apps, or accounts.

I can't use ___.

state that you cannot use something

Meaning: “I can’t use ___.” = Say you cannot use something.

When to use: Use it when something is not available to you or is too difficult to use.

My ___ hurts.

state that a body part hurts

Meaning: “My ___ hurts.” = Say a body part has pain.

When to use: Use it with a body part.

Tip: For one body part, say “hurts”: “My head hurts.”

I hurt my ___.

state a minor injury

Meaning: “I hurt my ___.” = Say you injured a body part.

When to use: Use it after an accident or small injury.

The ___ is broken.

state that something is broken

Meaning: “The ___ is broken.” = Say something is damaged or not working.

When to use: Use it for objects, tools, or simple services.

I missed ___.

state that you missed transport or an event

Meaning: “I missed ___.” = Say you were too late for transport or an event.

When to use: Use it for buses, trains, flights, meetings, or appointments.