be a problematic one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a problematic one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that poses difficulties or challenges in a particular context. Example: "The new policy may be a problematic one for many employees who are used to the old system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The definition of PR can be a problematic one.

Annals of Hematology

This assumption about linearity does not seem, on the face of it, to be a problematic one.

SEP

I own this neighborhood now.'" A bold coyote that lacks a natural wariness of humans can be a problematic one.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But, from a business and marketing perspective, the suggestion that Bridgewater's success continues to hinge on Dalio is a problematic one.

The New Yorker

This word "better" is a problematic one.

The Guardian - Books

The allegation is a problematic one because that person is Lord Carlile – the man charged with independently reviewing counter-terrorism measures.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is certainly true that Germany's relationship with Israel is a problematic one, with the Holocaust taught in schools and the issue of historical guilt never far beneath the surface.

The Guardian - Books

It's why the fusion of the two stereotypes is a problematic one.

Vice

And this watershed moment in our culture brings us the unprecedented opportunity to truly evoke change if we all agree that this reality is a problematic one.

Huffington Post

But the idea that the aim of education is growth has proved to be a problematic and controversial one, and even the meaning of the slogan is unclear.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most relevant political framework instead appears to be a more problematic one inherited from his predecessor: a general loss of faith in government.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a problematic one", ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the subject problematic. Providing specific examples or reasons strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "be a problematic one" without specifying the nature of the problem. Overuse of vague language weakens the impact of your statement. Always clarify why something is problematic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a problematic one" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes a subject as being likely to cause difficulties or pose challenges. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for diverse written contexts. Examples show its use in describing definitions, relationships, and situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a problematic one" is a versatile expression used to describe something that is likely to cause difficulties or challenges. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. While fairly common, it is important to use specific language when using "be a problematic one" and specify the nature of the problem, rather than only stating that a problem exists. While mostly found in news, scientific and encyclopedic sources, alternative phrasings such as "be a challenging issue" or "be a difficult matter" can provide a more formal or descriptive tone, while others like "be a headache" offer a more informal approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a challenging issue

Replaces "problematic one" with a more direct noun phrase emphasizing difficulty.

be a difficult matter

Substitutes "problematic one" with a neutral term suggesting complexity and requiring careful handling.

present a challenge

Uses a verb phrase to focus on the action of posing a problem, rather than describing the subject.

pose difficulties

Emphasizes the difficulties caused by something, shifting the focus from the thing itself.

be fraught with difficulty

This alternative suggests a situation filled with potential problems and complications.

be a source of trouble

Focuses on the trouble or problems that something causes, rather than its inherent nature.

be a headache

Uses a more informal expression to convey the sense of something causing trouble or annoyance.

be a can of worms

Employs an idiom to describe a situation that is deceptively complex and likely to cause unforeseen problems.

be a tough nut to crack

Suggests that something presents a difficult problem that requires significant effort to solve.

create complications

Shifts the focus to the act of causing problems, rather than describing the inherent nature of something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be a problematic one" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "be a challenging issue", "be a difficult matter", or "present a challenge". These options offer a more professional and precise way to express the same idea.

What are some less formal alternatives to "be a problematic one"?

If you're aiming for a more casual tone, you might use phrases like "be a headache" or "be a can of worms". However, be mindful of your audience and ensure these idioms are appropriate for the context.

In what situations is it best to avoid using "be a problematic one"?

While "be a problematic one" is generally acceptable, it can sound vague. Avoid it when you can provide more specific and descriptive language about the exact nature of the problem. Instead of saying "the situation might be a problematic one", try "the situation presents several logistical challenges".

Is there a difference between saying something "is problematic" versus saying it "will be a problematic one"?

Yes, "is problematic" suggests that the issue is already causing problems, while "will be a problematic one" implies a future or potential problem. The choice depends on whether the problem is current or anticipated.