dans les problème

You will almost always use this with the verb être (to be). Simply say Je suis dans les problèmes. You can also use it to talk about someone else, like Il est dans les problèmes. It is a very flexible phrase. You don't need fancy grammar to make it work. Just pick your subject and go.

Use this when you are chatting with friends or family. It is perfect for texting when you've made a mistake. If you are late for a coffee date, it is a great way to explain why. You can also use it at the office with colleagues you know well. It adds a touch of honesty to your day.

Avoid this in very formal settings, like a legal hearing or a high-stakes business negotiation. It is a bit too casual for a formal letter to a government official. In those cases, you might want to use something more precise like rencontrer des difficultés. Also, don't use it if you just have one tiny issue; it usually implies a few things are going wrong.

French culture often values authenticity over 'toxic positivity.' While some cultures might always say 'everything is fine,' French speakers are often happy to share their problèmes. It is a way of bonding. Sharing a struggle is a sign of trust. It shows you are being real with the person you are talking to.

You will often hear avoir des problèmes (to have problems). If you want to sound more idiomatic, you might hear être dans le pétrin (to be in a jam). If things are really bad, younger people might say être dans la sauce, which is very popular slang right now. Just be careful who you say that to!