a knotty one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a knotty one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or situation that is complex or difficult to resolve. Example: "The issue we are facing is a knotty one, requiring careful consideration and collaboration to find a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Here's a knotty one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But his story was also a knotty one.

The New York Times - Sports

and: The question of how much duration and risk a bank should assume per dollar of capital is a knotty one — if you match durations and assume no risk, then your stock value never crashes.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Ran" is a masterwork, but such a tough, knotty one that its art house success in 1985 still seems miraculous.

The New York Times

The nature of ignorance is a serious philosophical problem; for decision-makers, it is a knotty practical one.

The Economist

This is a knotty problem – one that is alleviated but not resolved by the largesse of the recent Autumn Statement.

The Guardian

Those two questions are knotty ones.

The Economist

Mr. Taleb's most engaging formulations are, of course, the knotty ones.

The New York Times - Books

Cybersecurity problems, including some of the most urgent, pressing, and knotty ones, often have little or no technical component.

Forbes

This is a knotty problem, but one which has been dealt with many years ago in Britain.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ms. Ellerbee is now considering moving "Nick News" to Israel to study the Middle East crisis -- a knotty subject, but one she feels certain her audience can grasp.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a knotty one" to describe problems that are not only difficult but also involve complex interdependencies. This emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding and approach.

Common error

Avoid using "a knotty one" for straightforward issues. Overusing it can make your writing sound pretentious. Reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant the description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a knotty one" functions as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun or pronoun referring to a problem, issue, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage to describe something complex or intricate.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a knotty one" is a descriptor used to convey the complex and intricate nature of a problem or issue. It is deemed grammatically correct and usable in written English, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. While not overly common, the phrase is appropriate for both neutral and formal contexts, particularly within news, academic, and professional spheres. When writing, reserve "a knotty one" for issues that genuinely involve multiple interconnected elements to avoid sounding pretentious. Alternatives like "a complicated one" or "a challenging one" may be more suitable in less complex situations. Ludwig's examples highlight the contexts in which this phrase shines, adding depth and nuance to descriptions of multifaceted problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult one

Directly states the problem is not easy to resolve.

a complicated one

Directly indicates complexity, focusing on the multiple interconnected parts.

a tricky one

Suggests the need for careful handling to avoid problems or failure.

a challenging one

Highlights that the problem will require effort and skill to overcome.

a tough one

Highlights the difficulty and resilience required to solve the problem.

a sophisticated one

Implies complexity, possibly with an element of elegance or refinement.

a troubling one

Highlights the worrying or concerning nature of the problem.

a contentious one

Highlights that the problem or situation is likely to cause disagreement or argument.

a sensitive one

Emphasizes that the problem requires careful handling to avoid causing offense or harm.

a cumbersome one

Suggests the problem is difficult and slow to handle due to its complexity or size.

FAQs

How can I use "a knotty one" in a sentence?

You can use "a knotty one" to describe a complex problem, such as: "The ethical dilemma presented by AI is "a knotty one" that requires careful consideration."

What's a good alternative to "a knotty one"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a knotty one" include "a complicated one", "a tricky one", or "a challenging one".

Is it appropriate to use "a knotty one" in formal writing?

Yes, "a knotty one" is appropriate for formal writing when describing complex or intricate issues. However, ensure the context warrants such a descriptive phrase.

What makes a problem "a knotty one" versus just a difficult problem?

A "knotty" problem suggests that the difficulties arise from multiple interconnected issues or complexities, requiring a more nuanced and multifaceted approach than a simply "difficult" problem.