a bit thorny

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit thorny" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or topic that is complicated, difficult, or sensitive. Example: "The discussion about budget cuts became a bit thorny when we started addressing the potential layoffs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

For earlier generations of feminists, feelings about heterosexual eroticism were a bit thornier.

Vice

The story is a bit thornier than it might seem at first, since Hirsi Ali has at times made inflammatory statements against Islam itself.

Huffington Post

The issue of affordable higher education is a bit thornier for Democrats, but every candidate has backed some form of free college.

Vice

Small and midsize businesses, many facing product and project complexities a bit less thorny than those in the 777, are enjoying a democratization of sophisticated 3-D design.

Forbes

How these rules translate to situations about life and death, however, is a bit more thorny.

Vice

Guess the problem comes when you get the finished record and it feels a bit like an 80s Prince album with a swirling black hole of depression where the thorny little penis should be.

Vice

A bit.

The New York Times

Working both alone and together, these two thorny, rather solitary people make a good team, but Haggis, positioning them at odd angles to each other, respects the distance between them; even when they warm up a bit, he doesn't pull on our heartstrings.

The New Yorker

"A bits a bit.

Forbes

Perhaps a bit biased.

BMC Biology

Peripheries a bit cool?

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit thorny" when you want to subtly indicate that a subject is sensitive or presents complications without being overly negative or alarmist.

Common error

While "a bit thorny" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional terms like "complex", "challenging", or "problematic" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit thorny" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It typically describes a situation, issue, or topic, indicating that it is somewhat complex, sensitive, or difficult to handle. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's acceptable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a bit thorny" is used to describe something that is somewhat complicated, sensitive, or difficult. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While the phrase is grammatically sound and understandable, it is not very common. It functions as an adjective phrase and carries a neutral tone, suitable for general discussions and news articles. When writing, use it to subtly point out potential problems without being overly negative. For more formal writing, consider alternatives like "complex" or "challenging".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Slightly prickly

Emphasizes the sensitive or potentially confrontational aspect.

Slightly problematic

Indicates a minor issue or difficulty, focusing on the problem aspect.

A touch sensitive

Focuses on the delicate nature of the topic and the need for careful handling.

Mildly difficult

Stresses the degree of effort required, implying it's not too severe.

Somewhat challenging

Emphasizes the difficulty aspect, suggesting a task requires effort.

A tad complicated

Uses "tad" for a slightly more informal tone, indicating a small level of complexity.

A little troublesome

Highlights the inconvenience or annoyance caused by the issue.

A little complex

Highlights the intricate nature of the situation.

Somewhat knotty

Uses "knotty" to imply the issue is tangled or difficult to unravel.

Moderately intricate

Focuses on the detailed and complicated nature of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit thorny" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit thorny" to describe a situation that is somewhat complicated or sensitive. For example, "The negotiations became "a bit thorny" when discussing financial contributions."

What's the difference between "a bit thorny" and "very thorny"?

"A bit thorny" suggests a mild level of complication or sensitivity, while "very thorny" indicates a significantly more difficult or problematic situation.

What can I say instead of "a bit thorny"?

You can use alternatives like "slightly problematic", "somewhat challenging", or "a little complex" depending on the context.

Is "a bit thorny" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "a bit thorny" may be too informal for highly formal writing. Consider using more precise and professional terms like "complex" or "challenging" in such contexts.