a very sticky issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very sticky issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complex or difficult problem that is hard to resolve or discuss. Example: "The debate over climate change policies has become a very sticky issue among lawmakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It's a very sticky issue," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Part of the problem, Kearns says, is that hostility toward transgender people and issues that face gender minorities is still a very sticky subject, even in supposedly liberal or progressive churches.

Vice

"A real sticky issue in this case was financing for settlement," Mr. Rogers said.

The New York Times

In the midst of an escalating diplomatic crisis, the Swedish government was due to decide on another issue that concerned Saudi Arabia, a very sticky one.

The New Yorker

"It's a very sticky, touchy situation".

The New York Times

The difference is important because disability insurance is a very sticky kind of safety net.

The New York Times

In Esther, it's possible to see a very sticky example of Dickens's saccharine tendency.

The Guardian - Books

Our meeting to talk about all this gets off to a very sticky start.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He added: "GroupMe creates a very sticky instant feeling.

TechCrunch

It's also build a very sticky Facebook integration.

TechCrunch

"We're getting into a very sticky area for the Europeans," Salvaggio said.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a very sticky issue", be sure to provide context to explain why the issue is considered difficult or complicated. This will help your audience understand the full scope of the challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "a very sticky issue" as a vague descriptor. Always specify what makes the issue 'sticky' to provide clarity and impact. Vague usage weakens your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very sticky issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a particular problem or situation as being complicated and difficult to resolve. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a very sticky issue" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a complex or sensitive problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively communicates the challenging nature of a particular situation. While versatile, providing specific context when using this phrase enhances clarity. Semantically similar alternatives include "a thorny problem" and "a delicate matter". Though suitable for various contexts, consider the overall tone of your writing to ensure the most appropriate fit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorny problem

Replaces 'sticky' with 'thorny', emphasizing the difficulty and potential pain associated with the issue.

a delicate matter

Focuses on the sensitivity and care required when handling the issue.

a complicated situation

Highlights the complexity and intricacy of the circumstances.

a challenging problem

Emphasizes the difficulty and the need for effort to resolve the problem.

a difficult predicament

Indicates a troublesome and confusing situation.

a sensitive subject

Highlights that the issue requires careful handling due to its potential to cause offense or conflict.

a contentious topic

Emphasizes the likelihood of disagreement and debate surrounding the issue.

an intractable problem

Suggests the problem is particularly stubborn and resistant to resolution.

a troublesome affair

Implies that the issue is causing worry or difficulty.

a perplexing dilemma

Highlights the confusing and puzzling nature of the problem.

FAQs

What does it mean to call something "a very sticky issue"?

Calling something "a very sticky issue" means it is a complicated, difficult, or sensitive problem that is not easily resolved. It often implies that there are conflicting opinions or obstacles that make finding a solution challenging.

What can I say instead of "a very sticky issue"?

You can use alternatives like "a thorny problem", "a delicate matter", or "a complicated situation" depending on the context.

Is "a sticky issue" formal or informal?

"A sticky issue" and "a very sticky issue" are generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal writing might benefit from alternatives like "a complex challenge".

How do you address "a very sticky issue" effectively?

To address "a very sticky issue" effectively, clearly define the problem, acknowledge different perspectives, and work towards a compromise or solution that addresses the core concerns. Open communication and empathy are key.