Learning English

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Introduction

Don't know this expression? That sounds like a you problem. Learn how to use it with Phil and Feifei.

Transcript

Feifei
Hello and welcome to The English We Speak, where we explain phrases used by fluent English speakers so that you can use them too. I'm Feifei.

Phil
And I'm Phil. I'm in such a rush, Feifei. Can we do this quickly? I need to run home and pack. I'm going on holiday tomorrow, and I haven't packed anything yet, or worked out how to get to the airport, or got any travel money.

Feifei
You haven't done any of that? Phil, I'd help out but I think this is more of a you problem. You should have planned things better. But, let's record this programme properly and take the time it needs.

Phil
Well, at least you've given me an expression we can talk about – 'a you problem'. We say this to someone to say that their problem is something for them to sort out themselves.

Feifei
Yes, and often we use it to remind people when they complain about something that they could have avoided, like your rushed holiday preparations.

Phil
You're right – that is a me problem. I'll sort it. It's not something that's always rude to say, but it is quite informal. Another way we use it is to say that a problem is something that no one else thinks is important. You know how you don't like sitting on the left side of the studio, Feifei?

Feifei
That's right, I don't like it.

Phil
Well, I think that's a you problem, Feifei – no one else minds. Let's hear some other people using this expression.

Examples
- Beth, you look so tired.
- I am! I stayed up till 2 o'clock last night.
- Well, that's a you problem.
- Alright.

- Oh no! I've lost my ticket to tonight's concert.
- Well, that's a you problem. I'm going – you're going to have to buy a new one.

- I've been at the beach all day so now I haven't got any time to finish my work. Can you help me?
- Hmm, well, that's a you problem, really.

Feifei
We've been learning the expression 'a you problem' to mean this is a problem that you need to sort out or this is only a problem for you.

Phil
You'll often hear people say 'I think that's a you problem' or 'that sounds like a you problem'.

Feifei
Yes, so you needing more time to pack sounds like a you problem!

Phil
We need to stop here so we'll see you in the next programme.

Feifei
Goodbye.

Phil
Bye!

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