I’ve got a problem with “no problem.” The phrase has taken the place of a handful of more appropriate responses, including the lovely phrase “You’re welcome.”
I can’t think of a situation improved by “no problem.”
(At an elevator)
“Thank
you for holding the door.”
“No problem.”
(At a restaurant)
“Could
I please have silverware?”
“No problem.”
(Following an
apology)
“I’m sorry for misdialing.”
“No problem.”
Don’t
tell me what it isn’t; tell me what you mean:
“Thank you for the reminder.”
“No
elephant.”
It’s
also
“No
potted fern,” “No calcium deposit,” and “No creamed corn.”
“No
problem” is no answer.