May 10, 2008...10:00 am
“No Problem” - A Problem
I’m not sure when “No Problem” became a substitute for “You’re welcome,” but to me it has become a problem. It’s just one of many Pet Peeves you’ll find posted here from time to time.
“No problem” is so negative. “No” is negative. “Problem” is negative. I supposed that’s why it’s used. People thinking a double negative makes a positive.
I disagree. “No Problem” implies that the speaker anticipated a problem. Is that what you want to hear in line at the grocery store or after you’ve accidentally bumped into another person and said “Excuse me” or when someone holds the door open for you.
Ask someone to do you a favor and instead of hearing “Sure, I’d be glad to help,” we hear “No problem.”
Tell a fast food server they forgot a bag of fries with your order and you expect to hear “I’m sorry,” not “No problem.” (It is a problem.)
“No problem, no problem, no problem.”
I hope you’re glad I pointed this out.
You’re welcome.
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