a sticky process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sticky process" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or procedure that is complicated, challenging, or involves difficulties. Example: "The project turned out to be a sticky process, requiring numerous revisions and constant communication among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

These may be just the opening shots in a sticky process to win parliament's approval of a new cabinet.Such struggles will also handicap Mr Ahmadinejad in economic and foreign policy.

The Economist

These may be just the opening shots in what may be a sticky process to win parliament's approval of a new cabinet.Such struggles will also handicap Mr Ahmadinejad in economic and foreign policy.

The Economist

Old emotional ties can make this a sticky process.

Huffington Post

Former government officials who worked on Iran nuclear issues concede that categorically separating the sanctions will be a sticky process.

Huffington Post

Slicing them is a sticky process and a mango slicer will reduce your chances of cutting yourself.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It's a very sticky process!

WikiHow

The only unknown is how much more than 100 the window sticker will read, because the sticky process of deciding exactly how to rate a new generation of hybrid-powered cars is still being worked out.

The New York Times

If the White House can take a step away from the legislature, they can get removed from the sticky process that no one likes -- and that has garnered the lowest approval ratings ever -- and make it Boehner and Reid's problem to enact a legislative agenda.

Huffington Post

At this stage in this sticky process, Federal District Court Judge Edward Korman is still mulling over ways to remedy this unconstitutional mess.

The New York Times

During the peel-off process, a sticky transferring layer is attached to the supporting substrate, which in this case is the curved surface of glass rod lens.

ACS Nano

A novel Nonlinear PI Controller (NPIC) has been proposed for effective control of flow process employing a sticky pneumatic control valve.

ISA Transactions

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sticky process", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the process challenging or complicated for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a sticky process" too frequently in close proximity within your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like "challenging", "complex", or "difficult" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sticky process" functions as a noun phrase, where 'sticky' acts as an adjective modifying 'process'. It describes a process characterized by complications or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sticky process" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a challenging or complicated procedure. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific discussions. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies the specific difficulties involved. While versatile, avoid overuse by considering synonyms like "complex" or "difficult" to maintain writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging procedure

Replaces 'process' with 'procedure', emphasizing the difficulty.

a difficult undertaking

Substitutes 'process' with 'undertaking', highlighting the demanding nature.

a complicated affair

Uses 'affair' instead of 'process', adding a sense of complexity.

a problematic endeavor

Replaces 'process' with 'endeavor', stressing potential issues.

a thorny issue

Changes 'process' to 'issue', shifting the focus to a specific problem.

a knotty situation

Emphasizes the tangled and complex nature using 'knotty'.

a convoluted operation

Replaces 'process' with 'operation', highlighting the intricate steps.

a delicate matter

Highlights the need for careful handling.

an intricate procedure

Focuses on the detailed and complex nature.

a tough proposition

Emphasizes the demanding aspects of the process.

FAQs

How can I use "a sticky process" in a sentence?

You can use "a sticky process" to describe any situation or procedure that is complicated or challenging, for example: "Navigating the legal system proved to be "a sticky process"."

What are some alternatives to saying "a sticky process"?

Alternatives include "a difficult process", "a challenging process", or "a complex process" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a sticky process" considered formal or informal language?

"A sticky process" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in highly professional settings.

What does it mean when someone describes something as "a sticky process"?

It means the process is likely to encounter unexpected difficulties, delays, or complications, making it potentially frustrating or time-consuming.