a tricky thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tricky thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, task, or concept that is complicated or difficult to navigate. Example: "Understanding the nuances of human emotions can be a tricky thing, especially in a professional setting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a tricky thing.

The New York Times - Books

Memory is a tricky thing.

The Economist

But influence is a tricky thing.

The New York Times

"This was a tricky thing for Sly.

Independent

Favorability ratings are a tricky thing, however.

The New York Times

Bias is a tricky thing.

The New York Times

It's a tricky thing, indeed, this verisimilitude.

Independent

"It's a tricky thing," Ms. Hopkins said.

The New York Times

But it's a tricky thing to handle.

The New Yorker

"Anxiety is a tricky thing," she says.

The New York Times - Magazine

But fusion is a tricky thing.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tricky thing" when you want to acknowledge the complexity or difficulty of a situation without being overly negative. It's a versatile phrase suitable for various contexts.

Common error

While "a tricky thing" is useful, avoid relying on it too heavily. Vary your language with more specific terms to describe the exact nature of the difficulty or complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tricky thing" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes something that requires care, skill, or tact due to its complex or challenging nature. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a tricky thing" is a versatile and commonly used expression for describing something that is difficult, complex, or requires careful handling. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While simple in structure, its usage calls for awareness of context to avoid overuse, and strategic use of alternatives like "a delicate matter" or "a complex issue" can enhance writing. Therefore, being able to identify when and how to use "a tricky thing" and when and how to replace it is paramount for clarity and sophistication in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate matter

Emphasizes the need for sensitivity and careful handling.

a complex issue

Highlights the multifaceted and intricate nature of the subject.

a challenging task

Focuses on the difficulty and effort required.

a difficult situation

Underscores the problematic and unfavorable circumstances.

a complicated endeavor

Suggests a project or undertaking with many interconnected parts.

a thorny problem

Implies a problem that is difficult to resolve and may cause conflict.

a precarious situation

Highlights the instability and potential danger involved.

a sensitive topic

Emphasizes the need for tact and discretion.

a tough proposition

Suggests a difficult offer or challenge to accept.

a knotty question

Implies a complex and puzzling question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a tricky thing" to describe something that is difficult, complicated, or requires careful handling. For example, "Negotiating a contract can be "a tricky thing"."

What are some alternatives to "a tricky thing"?

Alternatives include "a delicate matter", "a complex issue", or "a challenging task", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a tricky thing"?

Yes, "a tricky thing" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English.

In what contexts is "a tricky thing" most appropriate?

"A tricky thing" is appropriate in a wide range of contexts, from describing personal challenges to complex business situations. It's suitable for informal and neutral registers.