In
metaphysics, the
problem of universals refers to the question of whether properties exist, and if so, what they are.
Properties are qualities or relations that two or more entities have in common. The various kinds of properties, such as qualities and
relations are referred to as
universals. For instance, one can imagine three cup holders on a table that have in common the quality of
being circular or
exemplifying circularity, or two daughters that have in common
being the daughter of Frank. There are many such properties, such as being human, red, male or female, liquid, big or small, taller than, father of, etc.