be the matter

Related to be the matter: States of matter, Phases of matter

be the matter (with someone or something)

To be the source of someone's or something's displeasure, problems, or difficulty. What's the matter? You look upset. Is something the matter with the washing machine? It's making a strange noise
See also: matter, someone
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

be the ˈmatter (with somebody/something)

be the reason for unhappiness, pain, problems, etc: What’s the matter, Gail? You look ill. John’s been very quiet recently. I wonder if there’s anything the matter with him. Don’t worry, there’s nothing the matter. There’s something the matter with this radio. It’s stopped working.
See also: matter
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • be the matter (with someone or something)
  • record
  • what's the matter
  • What's the matter (with someone or something)?
  • What's the matter?
  • any way
  • the matter at hand
  • be a matter of (doing something)
  • be a matter of something/doing something
  • it is a matter of (doing something)