be a tricky one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a tricky one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, problem, or question that is difficult to navigate or solve. Example: "This math problem might be a tricky one, so take your time to think it through."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Cloudera's business can be a tricky one, much like Docker and MongoDB — which is built on top of open-source technology that anyone can use.

TechCrunch

It will be a tricky one.

The Guardian - Sport

Any timetable involving Mangini would be a tricky one.

The New York Times

"It is going to be a tricky one," he said.

The Guardian

This hurdle may be a tricky one, though.

The Guardian

For most sides, a fixture in Mainz can be a tricky one.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

This is a tricky one.

The Guardian

Here's a tricky one.

The Guardian

'That's a tricky one.

The Guardian - Books

It's a tricky one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Phew, this was a tricky one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a tricky one", ensure the context clearly identifies what is considered tricky. Be specific about the source or nature of the difficulty to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "be a tricky one" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for more precise language that directly describes the nature of the difficulty, such as "present a significant challenge" or "require careful consideration".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a tricky one" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, typically following a linking verb like "is", "was", or "can be". It describes a noun or situation as being challenging or difficult. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be a tricky one" is a versatile expression used to describe situations, tasks, or problems that are challenging or complex. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While its informality level is generally neutral, more formal settings might require more precise alternatives like "present a challenge" or "involve complications". When employing this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to ensure the context of the difficulty is well understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prove difficult

Emphasizes the potential for problems and obstacles.

present a challenge

Focuses on the challenging aspect of the situation, highlighting the difficulty it poses.

pose difficulties

Emphasizes the obstacles and challenges that may arise.

be problematic

Highlights the potential for issues and complications.

be a tough proposition

Focuses on the demanding and challenging nature of the task.

be a complex matter

Emphasizes the complicated nature of the situation.

involve complications

Highlights the presence of complicating factors.

be a delicate situation

Highlights the sensitivity and need for careful handling.

require careful handling

Focuses on the need for a cautious and delicate approach.

demand finesse

Highlights the need for skill and delicacy in handling the situation.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "be a tricky one"?

When something is described as "be a tricky one", it means it's challenging, complicated, or requires careful handling to avoid problems or mistakes. Similar phrases include "present a challenge" or "prove difficult".

In what kind of situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "be a tricky one"?

The phrase "be a tricky one" is suitable for situations where there's a clear element of difficulty or complexity. It's commonly used in news articles, blogs, and everyday conversations, but less so in formal academic writing. Alternatives include "be problematic" or "require careful handling".

Is "be a tricky one" too informal for business correspondence?

While "be a tricky one" isn't strictly incorrect in business correspondence, it might be perceived as too informal for certain contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives such as "be a complex matter" or "involve complications".

What are some alternatives to "be a tricky one" that maintain a similar level of informality?

For a similar level of informality, you could use phrases like "be a tough proposition" or "pose difficulties". These alternatives convey the sense of something being challenging without being overly formal or technical.