a problematic time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a problematic time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period that is characterized by difficulties or challenges. Example: "The company faced a problematic time during the economic downturn, struggling to maintain its workforce."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mr. Smith's big break came in late 1999, when he was offered the chance to anchor the 7 p.m. news, a problematic time slot in which both Paula Zahn and Catherine Crier had been unable to build audiences.

The New York Times - Style

The presidential election of Abraham Lincoln received a positive response in Hawaii, with the Hawaiian-language newspaper Ka Hoku Loa writing that America was "blessed" to have him at such a problematic time.

The New York Times

However progressive deterioration in CF also produces specific problems, particularly in the transition to adulthood [ 25- 29], a problematic time for all chronic chilhood conditions [ 30].

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

The early radiations of ditrysian superfamilies are likely to have been rapid [ 2], and to have taken place mainly during the Cretaceous [ 12], a problematic time span for insect molecular phylogenetics (e.g., [ 13]).

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Next door, Vincent has an equally problematic time with a slightly posher mother who, cut off from this Catholic Labour world, is always close to breakdown.

The Guardian

Furthermore, it's a tremendously problematic time.

The New York Times

Christmas is inevitably a rather problematic time for atheists.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You could hardly find a more problematic time for pacifists who do not want their taxes spent on the military.

The New York Times - Arts

However, the rate of BP emission increase is still slightly faster than CDIAC inventory and much faster than our corrected FFC emission for the problematic time period of 2002 2007.

Geoscience Letters

From our analysis, it is clear that participants experienced excessive pressure on their time and a problematic relation to time and the forced tempo of life [ 33].

BMC Public Health

Finding that special person who is able to be counted upon during problematic times is like finding a diamond on the beach.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a problematic time", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the time period difficult. Provide specific examples or explanations to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a problematic time" as a catch-all phrase without specifying the actual problems. Be specific about the challenges or issues involved for clearer communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a problematic time" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "time". It describes a period marked by difficulties or challenges, indicating that something is not proceeding smoothly or as expected. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a problematic time" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a period marked by difficulties or challenges. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's important to provide context and specific details to avoid vagueness. The phrase appears more frequently in news and scientific contexts, maintaining a generally neutral tone. For more formal settings, consider using more precise alternatives. Be sure to specify what makes the time period "problematic" to ensure clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging period

Emphasizes the difficulties requiring effort and resilience.

a difficult juncture

Highlights the complexity and potential risks at a specific point in time.

a troublesome phase

Focuses on the annoyance and disruption caused during a certain period.

a trying moment

Stresses the demanding and stressful nature of a particular instance.

an awkward stage

Highlights the unease and lack of smoothness during a certain phase.

a sensitive period

Emphasizes the need for careful handling due to potential vulnerabilities.

a critical juncture

Focuses on the decisive nature of the time, where outcomes are heavily influenced.

a delicate situation

Highlights the precarious and fragile nature of the circumstances.

a complicated scenario

Emphasizes the intricate and complex nature of the situation.

a thorny issue

Highlights the contentious and difficult nature of the matter at hand.

FAQs

What does "a problematic time" mean?

The phrase "a problematic time" refers to a period characterized by difficulties, challenges, or issues that cause concern or require attention.

What can I say instead of "a problematic time"?

You can use alternatives like "a challenging period", "a difficult juncture", or "a troublesome phase" to convey a similar meaning.

How to use "a problematic time" in a sentence?

For example: "The company faced "a problematic time" during the economic downturn, struggling to maintain its workforce."

Is it okay to use "a problematic time" in formal writing?

Yes, "a problematic time" is acceptable in formal writing, although more precise and descriptive language might be preferred depending on the context. Alternatives such as "a critical juncture" or "a sensitive period" might be more suitable in certain formal contexts.