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 Nothing's the matter with my TV, OK? Just give it a good whack, and it'll work just fine!

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.