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 Faye Faye. And I'm Phil. I'm in such a rush, Faye Faye. 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. 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 program

properly and take the time it needs.

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.

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

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 as important.

You know how you don't like sitting on the left side of the studio, Faye Faye?

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

Well, I think that's a you problem, Faye Faye. No one else minds.

Let's hear some other people using this expression.

Beth, you look so tired.

I am. I stayed up till 2 o'clock last night.

Well, that's a you problem.

All right.

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.

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