a tricky problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tricky problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or issue that is difficult to solve or understand. Example: "The team faced a tricky problem when trying to balance the budget while meeting all project deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

He may soon face a tricky problem.

The Economist

Getting this new study published was a tricky problem.

The New York Times - Science

In this case, the study addressed a tricky problem.

The New York Times

It was an ingenious solution to a tricky problem.

The Guardian

EVEN for one of Europe's most efficient countries, it is a tricky problem.

The Economist

Did you come up with a new idea to solve a tricky problem?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Beltran is a trickier problem.

The New York Times - Sports

A trickier problem lies with the software that handles the trades.

The New York Times

But cell phones, which are considered more acceptable, posed a trickier problem.

The New York Times

The oligarchs -- the tiny group of men who got rich by acquiring state property in rigged deals -- are a trickier problem.

The New York Times

Compared with South Ossetia, which might be described as a smuggling racket with a patch of land attached, Abkhazia a lush stretch of Black Sea coast, which Russian soldiers and politicians dearly love presents a trickier problem.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tricky problem", consider the audience and context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. While generally acceptable, more formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "a complex issue".

Common error

While "a tricky problem" is widely understood, overuse in formal reports or academic papers can make your writing sound less professional. Vary your language by incorporating synonyms like "a complex challenge" or "a multifaceted issue" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tricky problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "tricky" modifies the noun "problem". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered correct and widely used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tricky problem" is a commonly used phrase to describe a difficult or challenging situation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally acceptable, it's important to consider the level of formality required for the specific writing context. In more formal settings, alternatives like "a complex issue" or "a challenging task" might be more appropriate. Overall, "a tricky problem" is a versatile phrase that effectively conveys the notion of a difficult situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex issue

Replaces "problem" with "issue", suggesting a multifaceted difficulty.

a complicated matter

Similar to "a complex issue", but with a slightly more formal tone.

a difficult situation

Replaces "tricky problem" with a broader term, implying hardship.

a challenging task

Shifts the focus to the effort required to overcome the difficulty.

a thorny issue

Uses a metaphor to emphasize the unpleasant and complex nature of the problem.

a delicate matter

Highlights the need for careful handling of the problem.

a perplexing question

Focuses on the confusing or puzzling aspect of the problem.

an intricate puzzle

Emphasizes the complexity and interconnectedness of the problem's elements.

a tough nut to crack

An idiomatic expression that suggests the problem is difficult to solve.

a vexing challenge

Indicates the problem is causing frustration or annoyance.

FAQs

What does "a tricky problem" mean?

The phrase "a tricky problem" refers to a difficult or challenging situation that requires careful thought and skillful handling. It suggests that the problem is not straightforward and may involve hidden complexities or potential pitfalls.

What can I say instead of "a tricky problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a complex issue", "a difficult situation", or "a challenging task" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "a tricky problem" suitable for formal writing?

While "a tricky problem" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as slightly informal in some contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "a complex problem" or "a delicate matter" to maintain a more professional tone.

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

You can use "a tricky problem" to describe any situation that presents a significant challenge. For example, "Balancing the budget while meeting all project deadlines presented a tricky problem for the team".