could be problematic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be problematic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has the potential to cause issues or difficulties in a given context. Example: "The proposed changes to the policy could be problematic for our current workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It could be problematic.

Independent

This could be problematic.

Harvard University

A solution could be problematic.

The New York Times

That could be problematic, too.

The New York Times - Sports

But that could be problematic.

The Guardian

Having no debt could be problematic.

The Washington Post

Here's why that could be problematic.

The Washington Post

Automation could be problematic when we consider existing VirtualBox installs.

University of California, Berkeley

That could be problematic in a criminal justice setting.

Stanford University

Enlisting a cabbie to help could be problematic.

The New York Times

Any depression of Democratic support could be problematic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be problematic", clearly state what the potential problems are and why they might occur. This provides context and allows for a more informed assessment of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "could be problematic" as a vague warning. Instead, specify the likely issues or consequences to make your analysis more persuasive and useful. For example, instead of saying "the new software could be problematic", specify "the new software could be problematic due to compatibility issues with existing systems".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be problematic" functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility and concern. It indicates that something has the potential to cause difficulties or issues. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound and widely used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

24%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could be problematic" is a versatile phrase used to express potential issues or difficulties across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It serves as a cautionary expression, prompting consideration of possible negative outcomes. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, its neutral register makes it widely applicable. To enhance clarity, specify the likely issues when using this phrase. Alternatives include "may present challenges" or "might create issues" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could pose difficulties

Highlights the potential for something to cause problems or obstacles.

could have negative consequences

Points out the potential for harmful effects or results.

may present challenges

Indicates potential difficulties, focusing on the challenges something might introduce.

could engender problems

Suggests that something might create or bring about specific problems.

might create issues

Suggests the possibility of problems arising, emphasizing the creation of new issues.

might prove troublesome

Emphasizes the potential for something to be annoying or cause difficulty.

may give rise to complications

Focuses on the potential for complex problems to emerge as a result.

may lead to setbacks

Highlights the possibility of delays or reversals in progress.

might turn out badly

Focuses on the potential for an unfavorable or negative outcome.

may not be ideal

Indicates that something might not be the best or most suitable option.

FAQs

How can I use "could be problematic" in a sentence?

Use "could be problematic" to express a potential issue or difficulty. For example, "Relying too heavily on one supplier "could be problematic" if they experience disruptions".

What are some alternatives to "could be problematic"?

Alternatives include "may present challenges", "might create issues", or "could pose difficulties" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "could be problematic" or "is problematic"?

"Could be problematic" suggests a potential or future issue, while "is problematic" indicates an existing problem. The choice depends on whether the issue is hypothetical or already present.

What is the difference between "could be problematic" and "might be problematic"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable, but "could be problematic" suggests a slightly higher probability or stronger concern than "might be problematic". Both express possibility, but "could" implies a somewhat greater likelihood.