a very tricky issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very tricky issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or problem that is complex and difficult to navigate or resolve. Example: "The negotiations have become a very tricky issue, requiring careful consideration from all parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"It's a very tricky issue".

The Guardian - Tech

"It's a very tricky issue," the concert promoter Arnon says.

The Washington Post

"Allocation has been a very tricky issue," Ms. Kindell said.

The New York Times

It's a very tricky issue … There are very interesting questions here".

The Guardian

If you're Scott Walker, Marco Rubio, or Jeb Bush, this could be a very tricky issue to confront.

The Washington Post

That's a very tricky issue, and it's one that hasn't come up a whole lot in the past".

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"But freedom," Mr. Lushin said, "is a very tricky matter".

The New York Times

This is a very tricky topic.

Vice

That said, deeply embedded suspicions of NATO within Russia's military establishment, as well as the populist nationalism of Vladimir Putin, the prime minister, will make for stuttering progress.Alternatives to nuclear?Assuming that the BMD plan goes ahead, it may further complicate one very tricky issue for the alliance the rumbling argument over its nuclear posture.

The Economist

These are very tricky issues to address, but we offer a suggestion for how the authors might make their case stronger: Although the authors identify SLY1 as an interactor of TANGO1, this interaction is not explored functionally.

eLife

Though some very tricky issues are still to be resolved between Iraq's Kurds and Arabs, especially the status of the oil-rich, ethnically mixed city of Kirkuk, the Arabs, especially the Shia majority, are coming round to accepting that Iraq's Kurds will retain their extreme autonomy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a very tricky issue", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific nature of the difficulty or complexity involved to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a very tricky issue" as a generic placeholder. Instead, provide specific details about why the issue is tricky to give your writing more depth and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very tricky issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a verb. It describes a topic or situation characterized by complexity and difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard and accepted expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a very tricky issue" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe complex or difficult situations across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's most frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific writing, where its purpose is to convey the need for careful consideration and strategic handling. While versatile, it's essential to provide specific context to avoid vagueness and enhance clarity. Alternatives like "a delicate matter" or "a complicated problem" can add nuance, depending on the specific challenges involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate matter

Replaces "tricky" with "delicate", implying sensitivity in addition to difficulty.

a complicated problem

Substitutes "tricky" with "complicated", focusing on the multifaceted nature of the problem.

a challenging situation

Replaces "issue" with "situation", emphasizing the situational difficulty.

a thorny question

Uses "thorny" to describe the issue, highlighting its potential to cause discomfort or pain.

a sensitive subject

Emphasizes the potential for causing offense or emotional distress.

a knotty problem

Replaces "tricky" with "knotty," suggesting a tangled and difficult-to-resolve issue.

a perplexing dilemma

Highlights the confusing and puzzling nature of the problem.

a difficult predicament

Focuses on the challenging and unfavorable nature of the situation.

a tough proposition

Emphasizes the difficulty of the task or undertaking involved.

a demanding task

Highlights the high level of effort and skill required.

FAQs

How can I use "a very tricky issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a very tricky issue" to describe something that is complex and difficult to handle. For example, "Navigating international trade agreements can be "a very tricky issue"".

What are some alternatives to "a very tricky issue"?

Alternatives include "a delicate matter", "a complicated problem", or "a challenging situation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a tricky issue" or "a very tricky issue"?

Both are grammatically correct. "A very tricky issue" simply intensifies the degree of difficulty. The choice depends on the level of emphasis you want to convey.

What makes something "a very tricky issue"?

An issue might be described as "a very tricky issue" because it involves multiple factors, conflicting interests, or uncertain outcomes, making it difficult to resolve effectively. It suggests the need for careful consideration and strategic handling.