The term ‘Houston we have a problem’ may be heard in many different English conversations, but what does this phrase mean? We are going to look into the meaning of this term and where the saying came from. We will also look at how the term can be used in a conversation in day to day life.
Houston We Have A Problem
“Houston We Have A Problem” Meaning
The phrase ‘houston we have a problem’ literally means that the speaker has a problem with something or a situation.
Origin of this idiom
This phrase was originally used by the space mission, Apollo 13. The crew on board the space craft would use this term to report back to their ground crew in Houston, Texas to alert them to an issue.
“Houston We Have A Problem” Examples
Examples in Statements
This first statement is being made by a builder.
- ‘Houston we have a problem, the cement is drying out too quickly.’
Here is a statement being made by a husband to his wife.
- ‘Houston we have a problem, we can’t have pasta for dinner as there is none left.’
Conversation Examples
You may be wondering how the term ‘houston we have a problem’ would fit into every day conversations, so here are some examples which feature the phrase.
The first conversation is between two co-workers
- Person 1: “I’m going to need the hammer.”
- Person 2: “Ok, let me just get it for you.”
- Person 1: “Thank you.”
- Person 2: “Houston we have a problem, the hammer is missing.”
This next conversation takes place between two friends.
- Person 1: “I am all out of money.”
- Person 2: “Let me pay for your coffee.”
- Person 1: “That’s very kind of you.”
- Person 2: “Houston we have a problem, I seem to have left my wallet at home.”
Other Ways to Say the Phrase
There are other ways in which you can express the meaning of the term ‘houston we have a problem.’
Here are some examples of things you could say.
- We have an issue
- Red alert
- Having a problem
What Does “Houston We Have A Problem” Mean? | Image
Last Updated on January 9, 2021
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