it gets tricky

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it gets tricky" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation that becomes complicated or difficult to navigate. Example: "The initial steps of the project are straightforward, but once we reach the implementation phase, it gets tricky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Now it gets tricky!

University of California, Berkeley

That is where it gets tricky.

The New York Times - Sports

Now, here is where it gets tricky.

The New York Times

"That's where it gets tricky," she continued.

The New York Times

But it gets tricky in practice.

The Economist

But here's where it gets tricky.

The Washington Post

Here's where it gets tricky for businesses.

The Washington Post

It gets tricky in the tie breakers.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

This is where it gets tricky-in fact, it's nearly impossible.

The New York Times

It gets trickier.

The New York Times

This is where it gets trickier.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it gets tricky" to signal a shift in a discussion where a process or situation is about to become more complex or problematic. It's a conversational way to prepare your audience for potential difficulties.

Common error

Avoid using "it gets tricky" in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable in many contexts, more precise and professional language (e.g., "the situation becomes complex" or "difficulties arise") might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it gets tricky" functions as an idiomatic expression used to signal a transition to a more complex or challenging aspect of a situation. Ludwig AI highlights its common usage across diverse contexts, reflecting its versatility in conveying nuanced difficulty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it gets tricky" is a common and versatile expression used to signal that a situation is becoming more complex or problematic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically sound and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards the informal side, suggesting caution in overly formal settings. Alternatives like "it becomes complicated" or "difficulties arise" can offer a more precise and professional tone when needed. Using "it gets tricky" effectively involves preparing the audience for potential challenges and complexities, making it a valuable tool in both conversation and writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it becomes challenging

Emphasizes the difficulty as a test of one's abilities.

it becomes complicated

Focuses on the increasing complexity of the situation.

it becomes problematic

Highlights the potential for issues and negative outcomes.

it presents difficulties

More formal phrasing, emphasizing the obstacles involved.

it poses a challenge

Similar to 'it becomes challenging' but slightly more formal.

it is not so straightforward

Indicates a departure from simplicity and ease.

things get complex

A more general way to express increasing intricacy.

things become difficult

Highlights the increasing hardship.

matters become delicate

Focuses on the sensitivity and careful handling required.

the situation gets complex

Specifically refers to the situation at hand, emphasizing its complexity.

FAQs

What does "it gets tricky" mean?

The phrase "it gets tricky" means that a situation is becoming more complicated, difficult, or problematic. It indicates a point where careful consideration or skillful handling is required.

What can I say instead of "it gets tricky"?

You can use alternatives like "it becomes complicated", "it becomes challenging", or "difficulties arise" depending on the context.

Is "it gets tricky" too informal for academic writing?

While "it gets tricky" is generally acceptable, academic writing often benefits from more formal and precise language. Consider using phrases like "the situation becomes complex" or "difficulties may arise" in academic contexts.

How can I use "it gets tricky" in a sentence?

You can use "it gets tricky" to introduce a complication or difficulty in a process or situation. For example: "The initial setup is straightforward, but then "it gets tricky" when you have to configure the network settings."