1. Problem or Difficulty: This is the most common meaning of "samasya." It refers to a challenging situation or issue that needs to be addressed or solved.
2. Comparison (in literature): In the context of Sanskrit literature, "samasya" refers to a specific type of poetic comparison. This involves comparing two things, often using metaphors or similes, to highlight a particular quality or characteristic.
In short:
* General meaning: Problem, difficulty, issue
* Literary meaning: Poetic comparison
Examples:
* General meaning: "The economy is facing a serious samasya."
* Literary meaning: "The poet used a samasya to compare the love of a woman to the fragrance of a flower."
It's important to consider the context to understand the specific meaning of "samasya" in a given situation.