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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
is problematic
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"is problematic" is a perfectly valid sentence in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation that is resulting in difficulty or complexity. For example: "The inconsistencies in this data is problematic and requires further investigation."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(20)
cause a risk
is unsuitable
presents a challenge
generate a question
raise a question
come up with a solution
come up with a product
causes a problem
encounter question
raises a consideration
causes a risk
creates a hazard
is not accessible
provokes anxiety
entails a peril
present a question
open a can of worms
is not comfortable
come up with a retread
presents challenges
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
The omission is problematic.
News & Media
Its availability is problematic.
News & Media
This disconnect is problematic.
News & Media
Again, this is problematic.
News & Media
The strategy is problematic.
News & Media
So torture is problematic.
News & Media
The proposal is problematic.
News & Media
This construct is problematic.
News & Media
Such homogeneity is problematic.
News & Media
Social communication is problematic.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
1 human-written examples
These interventions are problematic.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "is problematic", be specific about why something is problematic. Providing context enhances clarity and strengthens your argument.
Common error
Avoid simply stating something "is problematic" without explaining the underlying issues. Always provide reasoning or evidence to support your claim.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "is problematic" functions as a predicate adjective, linking the subject to a quality or characteristic that poses a problem or difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a grammatically correct and widely used sentence structure.
Frequent in
News & Media
64%
Science
24%
Academia
6%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Wiki
1%
Encyclopedias
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "is problematic" functions as a predicate adjective, commonly used to identify something posing a problem or difficulty. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts, this phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and general communication. For alternative phrasing, consider "presents challenges" or "raises concerns". Remember, specificity and clear justification are key when employing this phrase in your writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
is troublesome
Uses a synonym for 'problematic' to convey a similar meaning.
presents challenges
Focuses on the difficulties something poses, rather than explicitly labeling it as a 'problem'.
poses difficulties
Similar to "presents challenges" but emphasizes the hindrance aspect.
is a source of difficulty
Highlights that something is the origin of problems.
raises concerns
Highlights that something is causing worry or unease.
is a cause for concern
Emphasizes the worrying aspect of the situation.
is questionable
Indicates doubt or uncertainty about something.
is fraught with difficulties
Implies a situation is filled with many problems.
is not without its problems
Acknowledges the existence of issues, often used as an understatement.
is hardly ideal
Understates the problem, implying it is far from the desired state.
FAQs
How can I use "is problematic" in a sentence?
Use "is problematic" to describe something that presents a problem or difficulty. For example, "The lack of funding "is problematic" for the research project".
What are some alternatives to "is problematic"?
Alternatives include phrases like "presents challenges", "raises concerns", or "is troublesome". The best choice depends on the specific context.
Is it always negative to say something "is problematic"?
Yes, using "is problematic" generally carries a negative connotation, implying that something is causing difficulties or issues. However, it can also be used to introduce a nuanced discussion about potential drawbacks.
What's the difference between "is problematic" and "is a problem"?
"Is a problem" directly states that something is an issue. "Is problematic" suggests that something presents or poses a problem, implying a need for further consideration or resolution. You could use "is a challenge".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested