a tricky attitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tricky attitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's demeanor or approach that is difficult to understand or navigate, often implying a level of cunning or deceit. Example: "Her tricky attitude made it hard for the team to trust her intentions during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We lacked a bit of a tricky attitude.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A: Tricky.

The New York Times - Sports

Ward is a self-assured virtuoso from Oakland, possessed of a serious attitude and a tricky style — two attributes that help assure victory in the ring and a relatively low profile outside of it.

The New Yorker

A tricky one.

The Economist

A tricky moral moment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A tricky pivot point.

The Guardian - Books

Always a tricky category.

The Guardian - Sport

Always a tricky proposition in console games, where onscreen ads are often seen as invasive, the new era of free-to-play games has changed attitudes.

The Guardian - Tech

This is a tricky issue.

The New Yorker

That is a tricky distinction.

The Economist

It was a tricky lock.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tricky attitude", ensure the context clearly indicates who is perceiving the attitude as tricky and why. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "a tricky attitude" can be appropriate, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language to describe the specific behavior or characteristic you're observing, such as "a manipulative strategy" or "a cunning approach".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tricky attitude" functions as a noun phrase, where "tricky" modifies the noun "attitude". It describes a quality or characteristic of someone's behavior or approach. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tricky attitude" is a phrase used to describe someone's demeanor as cunning or deceitful. Ludwig confirms its usability. While grammatically correct and understandable, it is relatively rare. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, consider whether a more specific term might be more appropriate, especially in formal writing. Remember to provide context to clarify why the attitude is perceived as tricky. Alternatives include "a devious disposition" or "a cunning demeanor".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a devious disposition

This alternative focuses on the deceitful aspect of the attitude, suggesting a tendency towards trickery.

a cunning demeanor

This option emphasizes the cleverness and strategic thinking behind the attitude.

a manipulative approach

This phrase highlights the use of the attitude to control or influence others.

a strategic mindset

Focuses on the planned and calculated aspect of the attitude.

a shrewd outlook

Emphasizes the sharp and perceptive nature of the attitude.

a wily manner

This alternative suggests a sly and resourceful way of behaving.

a calculating nature

This option underlines the careful and deliberate nature of the attitude.

a duplicitous character

This alternative highlights the deceptive and two-faced quality of the attitude.

a deceitful air

Focuses on the deceptive impression that the attitude gives off.

an artful temperament

This implies the attitude is skillfully crafted to achieve a certain effect.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with "a tricky attitude"?

You can use phrases like "a devious disposition", "a cunning demeanor", or "a manipulative approach" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a tricky attitude" a positive or negative trait?

It's generally viewed negatively, implying someone is cunning, deceitful, or difficult to trust. However, in certain competitive situations, it might be seen as a strategic advantage.

What's the difference between "a tricky attitude" and "a difficult personality"?

"A difficult personality" encompasses a broader range of challenging behaviors, while "a tricky attitude" specifically suggests a tendency towards deception or manipulation. It suggests that the person may have "a shrewd outlook".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a tricky attitude"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize someone's slyness, deceptiveness, or tendency to use cunning tactics. It's best used when there's evidence or suspicion of such behavior. For example: "Her "a tricky attitude" made it hard for the team to trust her intentions during the project."