a wicked problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wicked problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe complex issues that are difficult to solve due to their interconnected nature and the presence of conflicting stakeholders. Example: "Climate change is often cited as a wicked problem because it involves numerous factors and requires cooperation from various sectors to address effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It really is a wicked problem.

The Guardian

"Financially, obesity is termed a wicked problem.

The Guardian

Climate change is what social scientists call a "wicked problem".

The Guardian

Our project sponsor Xylem asked us to design a solution around such a wicked problem.

Stanford University

A wicked problem has innumerable causes, morphs constantly, and has no correct answer.

Harvard Business Review

The reality of trying to solve a wicked problem is that action of any kind presents risks and uncertainties.

The New Yorker

For the United States Air Force, installing a new software system has certainly proved to be a wicked problem.

The New York Times - Tech

No solution to a wicked problem is ever permanent or wholly satisfying, which leaves every solution open to easy polemical attack.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Spatial planning for green stormwater treatment technologies, known as Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD), is a 'wicked' problem which can greatly benefit from the application of Planning Support Systems PSSS).

Environmental Modelling & Software

Deep decarbonization presents what the literature often calls a ‘wicked problem,’ that is, decision challenges that are not well-bounded, are framed differently by various stakeholders, involve deep uncertainties and non-linear dynamics, and are often not well-understood until after formulation of a solution.

University of California, Berkeley

DESCRIPTION: Deep decarbonization presents what the literature often calls a 'wicked problem,' that is, decision challenges that are not well-bounded, are framed differently by various stakeholders, involve deep uncertainties and non-linear dynamics, and are often not well-understood until after formulation of a solution.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a "wicked problem", briefly define its characteristics (e.g., interconnectedness, conflicting perspectives) to ensure clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a wicked problem" as a generic term for any difficult issue. Reserve it for situations that genuinely exhibit the defining characteristics of interconnectedness, ambiguity, and multiple stakeholders.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wicked problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. It serves to categorize a particular issue as exceptionally complex and resistant to traditional problem-solving approaches. Ludwig examples show its use across various domains to label intractable challenges.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

21%

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wicked problem" is a frequently used phrase that refers to a particularly complex and intractable issue. It’s grammatically sound and commonly found in academic, news, and scientific contexts. According to Ludwig, it is used to frame issues that defy simple solutions, requiring innovative thinking and collaborative efforts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to apply it accurately to situations exhibiting interconnectedness, ambiguity, and conflicting perspectives, and to avoid overuse in general contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex challenge

Emphasizes the intricacy and difficulty of the problem.

an intractable issue

Highlights the difficulty in managing or resolving the issue.

a thorny dilemma

Focuses on the problematic and complicated nature of the situation.

a complex situation

Highlights the numerous interconnected elements contributing to the challenge.

a perplexing puzzle

Emphasizes the confusing and difficult-to-understand aspects.

a gnarly problem

Uses informal language to convey the complicated and unpleasant nature.

a complicated matter

Highlights the complexity without necessarily implying insolvability.

a tough nut to crack

Idiomatic expression emphasizing difficulty in finding a solution.

a formidable obstacle

Stresses the significant challenge posed by the problem.

a profound challenge

Indicates a deep and significant difficulty.

FAQs

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

You can use "a wicked problem" to describe a complex issue that is difficult to solve due to incomplete, contradictory, and changing requirements. For example, "Climate change is often described as "a wicked problem" because of its global scale and interconnected factors."

What is "a wicked problem" in project management?

In project management, "a wicked problem" refers to a project with ill-defined or contradictory requirements, making it nearly impossible to define a clear project goal or develop a manageable plan. Stakeholder values often conflict, making any proposed solution open to criticism. An example of "a wicked problem" might be the implementation of a new enterprise-wide software system.

Which is correct, "wicked problem" or "difficult problem"?

Both "wicked problem" and "difficult problem" are correct, but they describe different things. "Difficult problem" refers to any problem that is hard to solve. "A wicked problem" has specific characteristics such as being difficult to define, having no clear solution, and often involving conflicting interests and values.

What are some examples of "wicked problems"?

Examples of "wicked problems" include climate change, poverty, terrorism, and cybersecurity. These issues are complex, interconnected, and lack straightforward solutions.