a tricky line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tricky line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, statement, or decision that is difficult to navigate or understand. Example: "When discussing sensitive topics, it's important to tread carefully, as it can be a tricky line to walk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

It's a tricky line to walk, and few succeed.

The New York Times - Books

It's a tricky line to figure out how much to push a child along.

The New York Times - Travel

For any parent, the oversight in this kind of situation is a tricky line to walk.

The New York Times

But Google is walking a tricky line, which antitrust regulators are watching closely.

The New York Times

When building infrastructure, governments walk a tricky line between counterproductive tight-fistedness and unnecessary gold-plating.

The Economist

It's a tricky line to walk: Kapadia must have been tempted to follow the drama.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

What he's presenting now is a documentary film based on the experience, titled after his avatar's namesake, and never was there a trickier line between total dick behavior and true humanity.

Vice

"It's a very tricky line because people absolutely need emotional support when they are dealing with illness".

The New York Times

Like "Kids," "White Girl" announces the arrival of a director of considerable verve, and its choice of style and subject toes a similarly tricky line between leering exploitation and unflinching portraiture.

Los Angeles Times

That's an especially tricky line to walk.

Los Angeles Times

(Holden) 'In the House' (R, 1 45) The latest from François Ozon ("Swimming Pool," "Under the Sand") is a teasing, semi-surreal comedy about the tricky line between fantasy and reality.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tricky line", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific difficulty or sensitivity is involved. Provide enough detail to ground the metaphor in a tangible reality.

Common error

Avoid using "a tricky line" without specifying what makes the situation difficult. Without context, the phrase becomes a cliché. Instead, explain the specific challenges or conflicting interests.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tricky line" functions as a noun phrase, where "tricky" modifies "line". It describes a situation that requires careful maneuvering or delicate handling. Ludwig AI validates its frequent use in various contexts, emphasizing its role in conveying complexity and potential pitfalls.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tricky line" is a commonly used phrase to describe situations requiring delicate handling. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in various news and media outlets. It serves to highlight complexity and potential challenges in a given scenario. While it's a widely accepted phrase, avoid overuse by providing clear context, preventing vagueness. Alternative phrases like "a delicate balance" or "a fine line" can add nuance depending on the situation. Using this phrase effectively means recognizing the implicit challenge and communicating the need for careful strategy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate balance

Emphasizes the need for equilibrium and careful management of opposing forces.

a fine line

Highlights the subtle distinction that needs to be observed to avoid crossing into undesirable territory.

a difficult path

Focuses on the challenges and obstacles present in a particular course of action.

a precarious situation

Stresses the instability and potential danger inherent in a scenario.

a sensitive issue

Highlights the need for careful handling due to potential emotional or controversial aspects.

a delicate situation

Similar to "a sensitive issue", but can also refer to strategic or diplomatic sensitivities.

a challenging situation

Focuses on the difficulty and demands placed on those involved.

a demanding task

Emphasizes the high level of effort and skill required.

a complex problem

Highlights the multiple interconnected factors that make something hard to resolve.

a tightrope walk

Uses a metaphor to express the need for balance and careful steps.

FAQs

How can I use "a tricky line" in a sentence?

You can use "a tricky line" to describe a situation that requires careful navigation or handling. For instance, "Balancing the needs of shareholders and employees is "a tricky line" for any CEO".

What does "a tricky line" mean?

The phrase "a tricky line" refers to a situation or course of action that is difficult or delicate, often requiring careful maneuvering to avoid negative consequences.

What are some alternative phrases for "a tricky line"?

Alternatives include "a delicate balance", "a fine line", or "a challenging situation", depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to be walking "a tricky line"?

Not necessarily. While it implies a challenge, walking "a tricky line" can also indicate skillful navigation of a complex situation. The outcome depends on how successfully the challenge is managed.