xy problem

Questions

What does xy problem mean?

A communication problem where a person seeking help (for example, from a computing helpdesk) provides misleadingly incomplete information about the source of the problem and thus receives inaccurate or unhelpful suggestions about how to fix it.

How to pronounce xy problem

1. Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “xy problem”.
2. Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
3. Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “xy problem”.
4. Repeat and practice — Say “xy problem” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.