a sticky wicket

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sticky wicket" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a difficult or tricky situation, often in a context where one must navigate challenges or complications. Example: "The negotiations have turned into a sticky wicket, with both sides unwilling to compromise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is, verily, a sticky wicket.

The New York Times

It certainly is a sticky wicket.

The New York Times

Some of the islands' economies may face a sticky wicket.

The Economist

The SNH may be on a sticky wicket.

Independent

"The film-makers were almost already on a sticky wicket.

Independent

"Beefy's batting on a sticky wicket," Packham replied.

The Guardian

This could put Uefa on something of a sticky wicket.

The Guardian - Sport

True, it spoke without much inflection, as if reporting a cricket score from a sticky wicket.

The New Yorker

On a sticky wicket Ethical tourism ReprintsUrban Pentecostalists are more upwardly mobile.

The Economist

There is no doubt that they are batting on a sticky wicket.

The Economist

In truth, Scottish parliament elections have consistently proven to be a sticky wicket for the party.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sticky wicket" to add a touch of British English flavor to your writing, but be mindful of your audience. Ensure they are familiar with the idiom to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "a sticky wicket" to describe something literally sticky. It's an idiom for a difficult situation, not a synonym for "adhesive" or "tacky".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sticky wicket" functions as an idiomatic noun phrase, used to describe a difficult or awkward situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its meaning isn't literal but figurative, representing a challenging circumstance. Its usage is well-supported by various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sticky wicket" is a common idiomatic phrase denoting a difficult situation, primarily used in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While grammatically correct and widely understood, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its informality should be considered when choosing it for formal communications. Alternatives like "a difficult situation" offer a more neutral tone. Be mindful of its cricket origin to avoid misuse in literal contexts, ensuring clear communication with your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult situation

Replaces the idiomatic expression with a more literal description of the circumstances.

a tough spot

Uses a more casual and direct term for a challenging situation.

a predicament

Employs a formal term to indicate a difficult or unpleasant situation.

a tight corner

Suggests a situation where one is confined and has limited options.

a bind

Implies a situation where one is restricted or obligated in an unfavorable way.

a dilemma

Refers to a situation where one must choose between two equally undesirable options.

a problem

Offers a very general term for any difficulty or challenge.

a quandary

Similar to a dilemma, but often implies a more perplexing or confusing situation.

a crisis

Indicates a situation that is highly unstable and requires immediate action.

a snag

Suggests a minor or unexpected difficulty that can impede progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sticky wicket" to describe a difficult or awkward situation. For example, "Negotiating the contract proved to be a sticky wicket".

What does it mean to be on "a sticky wicket"?

Being on "a sticky wicket" means you are in a challenging or precarious situation. It's often used in business or political contexts.

Is "a sticky wicket" formal or informal?

While widely used, "a sticky wicket" leans towards informal usage. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "a difficult situation" or "a challenging position".

What's the origin of the phrase "a sticky wicket"?

The phrase comes from cricket, referring to a pitch that is drying after rain, making it difficult to bat on. This is because the unpredictable bounce of the ball makes it hard to score runs.