a slippery proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slippery proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or idea that is difficult to define, manage, or agree upon, often due to its complexity or ambiguity. Example: "The proposal to change the zoning laws turned out to be a slippery proposition, as it faced opposition from various community groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The IA-1's least successful component is its recalcitrant pointing device, which makes controlling the cursor a slippery proposition.

The New York Times - Tech

Still, regulating an elusive art form like music was a slippery proposition, and when the Soviet Union collapsed, Denisov stood with Alfred Schnittke and Sofia Gubaidulina in a triumvirate of the leading post-Shostakovich Soviet composers.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This, they say, is what makes the film such a sophisticated and slippery proposition.

The Guardian - Film

It was starting to seem as if the piece, a slippery, scalar proposition, were getting the best of them.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a tricky proposition.

BBC

And the room-filling "Bedroom Ensemble 3/3" (1963/1995) refers to another: sex, which in Mr. Oldenberg's mostly vinyl environment looks like a slippery and unsensual proposition.

The New York Times - Arts

Like any still-evolving genre of criticism, pop writing is perpetually mired in an identity crisis, a sign of health and vibrancy for the form that can also make assembling a book like "Shake It Up" a slippery and treacherous proposition.

The New Yorker

Lars Bruhn, founder and chairman of NorthCap Partners, a major venture capital firm, said he saw Mr. Bendtsen's proposition as a slippery slope.

The New York Times

Some commenters both on Twitter and Facebook argued Leitch's proposition could be a slippery slope to a more relaxed grip on weapons of other kinds in Canada.

Vice

A Slippery Slope?

Columbia University

A slippery subject, indeed.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a slippery proposition" to describe situations or plans that seem straightforward but could easily lead to unforeseen complications or undesirable outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "a slippery proposition" when the risk is minimal or easily manageable; the phrase implies a significant potential for negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slippery proposition" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. It describes something as being potentially problematic or difficult to handle, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Arts

20%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slippery proposition" is a noun phrase used to describe a situation or idea fraught with hidden risks and potential complications. According to Ludwig, it's considered grammatically correct and appropriate for neutral to semi-formal contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in news and media, arts-related content and academic discussions. Understanding its nuances helps in conveying caution and anticipating challenges in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a risky undertaking

Emphasizes the potential for negative consequences or failure.

a delicate matter

Highlights the need for careful handling to avoid problems.

a complex issue

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the situation.

a precarious situation

Indicates instability and vulnerability to adverse effects.

a tricky situation

Highlights the problematic aspects and challenges involved.

a fraught endeavor

Implies a high level of stress and potential for conflict.

a double-edged sword

Suggests both positive and negative consequences are possible.

a Pandora's box

Implies the potential release of unforeseen and problematic consequences.

a house of cards

Emphasizes the fragility and potential for collapse.

a can of worms

Suggests the unveiling of hidden problems and complications.

FAQs

What does "a slippery proposition" mean?

The phrase "a slippery proposition" describes a situation, plan, or idea that seems simple but is potentially risky or difficult to control, often leading to unexpected and undesirable outcomes.

How can I use "a slippery proposition" in a sentence?

You might say, "Changing the company's policy without consulting employees proved to be "a slippery proposition", resulting in widespread dissatisfaction."

What are some alternatives to "a slippery proposition"?

Alternatives include "a risky undertaking", "a delicate matter", or "a complex issue" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a slippery proposition" the same as "a slippery slope"?

No, while related, they are distinct. "A slippery proposition" describes something inherently risky, while "a slippery slope" implies that one action will inevitably lead to a series of increasingly negative consequences.