be a tricky issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a tricky issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or problem that is complex or difficult to navigate. Example: "The decision to implement new policies can be a tricky issue for management, as it may affect employee morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

With budgets being cut around the country funding something like that might be a tricky issue, but Pidgeon has a few ideas on how to get around austerity.

The Guardian

Employing security is always going to be a tricky issue – a certain kind of person is likely to be attracted to these jobs – which makes it all the more important that staff are thoroughly vetted and the company subsequently held to account.

The Guardian - Opinion

But to tackle with the T-cell induced inflammation would be a tricky issue.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This is only going to be a trickier issue in the next decade.

TechCrunch

This is a tricky issue.

The New Yorker

Still, this is a tricky issue.

The New York Times

Campaign-finance is a tricky issue.

The Economist

It's a tricky issue.

The Guardian - Film

But honor is a tricky issue.

The New York Times

Suspending accounts has been a tricky issue for Twitter.

The New York Times

And yet it's a tricky issue for consumers.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a tricky issue", ensure the context clearly explains why the issue is tricky. Providing specific examples or potential complications can enhance clarity.

Common error

While "be a tricky issue" is acceptable, avoid using it repetitively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using "present a challenge", "pose a dilemma", or "be a complex matter" for a more engaging and nuanced text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a tricky issue" functions as a predicate nominative, characterizing a subject as a complex or problematic matter. It highlights the challenging nature of a situation. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a tricky issue" is a common and acceptable way to describe a complex or challenging situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media and scientific writing. While versatile, it's important to use the phrase thoughtfully and avoid overuse, opting for alternatives like "present a challenge" or "pose a dilemma" for greater precision. By providing context and avoiding redundancy, you can effectively communicate the intricacies of the matter at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a complex matter

Highlights the intricate nature of the situation.

be a difficult problem

Directly states the problematic nature.

not be straightforward

Underlines the lack of simplicity in the situation.

present a challenge

Focuses more on the challenge aspect rather than the complexity.

be fraught with difficulties

Emphasizes the presence of many obstacles.

pose a dilemma

Emphasizes the difficult choice aspect.

require careful handling

Stresses the need for caution and delicacy.

be a sensitive subject

Indicates potential emotional or ethical concerns.

be easier said than done

Highlights the discrepancy between planning and execution.

demand a nuanced approach

Highlights the need for a subtle and detailed strategy.

FAQs

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

You can use "be a tricky issue" to describe a situation or problem that is complex and requires careful consideration. For example, "Funding the new project could "be a tricky issue" given the current budget constraints."

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

Alternatives include "present a challenge", "pose a dilemma", or "be a complex matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "be a tricky issue" formal or informal?

"Be a tricky issue" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or highly professional settings.

What makes something "be a tricky issue"?

An issue is considered "tricky" when it involves multiple conflicting factors, requires careful navigation to avoid negative consequences, or lacks a clear and straightforward solution.