a problematic subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a problematic subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that is controversial, sensitive, or difficult to address. Example: "The debate surrounding climate change is often seen as a problematic subject due to differing opinions and political implications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

There was never a horse like Secretariat, which makes him a problematic subject for drama.

The New York Times

But for anyone writing about the creative process, as Mr. Lehrer did in his book "Imagine: How Creativity Works," Mr. Dylan is a problematic subject in other ways.

The New York Times

In the summer of 1959, Agron murdered two teen-agers in Hell's Kitchen and spent most of the rest of his life in prison — a problematic subject that Simon and Walcott never quite mastered).

The New Yorker

(By "they" she meant Mr. Blades and Mr. Anthony, who played the older and younger Salvador Agron, the real-life Capeman. In the summer of 1959, Agron murdered two teen-agers in Hell's Kitchen and spent most of the rest of his life in prison — a problematic subject that Simon and Walcott never quite mastered).

The New Yorker

For such definitions cannot underwrite the rationality or the aprioricity of a problematic subject matter.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

His films have frequently returned to problematic subjects – focusing more than once on the anti-psychiatrist RD Laing.

The Guardian - Arts

With the massive communication possibilities that the internet has brought, problematic subjects like suicide have become more accessible to individuals than ever before.

British Journal of Psychiatry

Discuss study techniques, problematic subjects, and how you can improve.

WikiHow

He succeeded in changing the subject from a problematic personal relationship to a stirring call for racial conciliation.

The New York Times

Due to complexity of signal processing some subjects turned in a problematic bio signal, composed by many artifacts and/or missing values.

BMC Psychiatry

Designating a species status can be a problematic task and the underlying concepts are subject of ongoing discussions (e.g., Templeton 1998; Avise 2000; Schroth et al. 2002).

International Aquatic Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a problematic subject", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the subject problematic. Providing specific reasons enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a problematic subject" without specifying the nature of the problem. This can lead to vagueness and confusion.

How to use

Learn how to use "a problematic subject" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a problematic subject" functions as a noun phrase, where "problematic" modifies the noun "subject". It identifies a topic or area of discussion that presents difficulties or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms this as a grammatically correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a problematic subject" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a topic that presents difficulties, controversies, or ethical dilemmas. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly common, it appears in news media and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it's best to provide context, clarifying what specifically makes the subject "problematic". Alternatives include "a difficult subject" or "a sensitive area", which may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult subject

This alternative uses "difficult" as a direct synonym for "problematic".

a sensitive subject

This alternative focus on the emotional and ethical complexities of the "subject".

a thorny issue

This alternative replaces "subject" with "issue" and "problematic" with "thorny", implying a complex and difficult topic.

a delicate matter

This alternative uses "matter" instead of "subject" and "delicate" instead of "problematic", highlighting the sensitivity of the topic.

a controversial topic

This alternative highlights the potential for disagreement and debate surrounding the "subject".

a challenging topic

This alternative replaces "problematic" with "challenging", focusing on the difficulty the topic presents.

a troublesome matter

This alternative suggests the "subject" causes worry or problems.

a complex issue

This alternative emphasizes the intricate nature of the "subject".

a sensitive area

This alternative suggests the "subject" requires careful handling.

a vexing question

This alternative implies the "subject" is puzzling and causes frustration.

FAQs

How can I use "a problematic subject" in a sentence?

You can use "a problematic subject" to describe a topic that is difficult, controversial, or sensitive. For example, "The ethics of artificial intelligence is "a problematic subject" for many researchers".

What are some alternatives to "a problematic subject"?

Alternatives include "a difficult subject", "a thorny issue", or "a sensitive matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a problematic subject" formal or informal?

"A problematic subject" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, the level of detail and explanation should be adjusted based on the audience.

What makes a subject "problematic"?

A subject can be considered "problematic" if it involves ethical dilemmas, conflicting viewpoints, complex data, or potential for misinterpretation. The specific reasons should be identified to avoid vagueness.