problematic

USAGE SUMMARY

'problematic' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that has complications or is difficult to resolve, or that is fraught with difficulties: The safety of the bridge has become increasingly problematic over the last few years.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The triple injection had become problematic because Georgia was running out of the drugs in question.

The Guardian

Prout arose to help with a problematic area of this wonderful setup: Anything can break.

The Guardian

There is a lot at stake and a lot of potential here, but the coalition seems to prefer shale gas, even though it is problematic, than this cheap and readily available form of fuel".

The Guardian

They're very problematic and sometimes down right rude to each other, but there's definitely chemistry, and definitely some other emotions entwined in there.

The Guardian

If for-profit schools are so problematic that even the most business-oriented party – at least by tradition – has no stomach for them, how come the government has spent the past five years supporting their growth?

The Guardian

But Snowden has also identified the fastening of those programmes on the global population as a problematic act, which deserves a form of moral and ethical analysis that goes beyond mere raison d'état.

The Guardian - Tech

Theoretically, problematic tweets get automatically flagged, and then manual review should catch them before they are published.

The Guardian - Tech

"From an economic standpoint alone, what you're asking is problematic to say the least," says Rameses, who speaks like an accounts manager from Surbiton as well as looking like one.

The Guardian - Film

Your blog already cites other experts pointing out that the LRA has been outside Uganda for several years, is far smaller than Invisible Children try to make believe, and that the Ugandan government and army are a deeply problematic ally in their campaign.

The Guardian

Finding cover for Anderson is more problematic, for beyond Graham Onions there is no swing bowler of sufficient class to take the new ball.

The Guardian - Sport

Education is particularly problematic: tens of millions of Nigerians are illiterate.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "problematic", be specific about what makes the issue problematic. Providing context helps your audience understand the nature and scope of the problem.

Common error

Avoid using "problematic" when a simpler word like "difficult" or "troublesome" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound pretentious. Choose the word that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

Linguistic Context

The word "problematic" primarily functions as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something that presents a problem, difficulty, or is questionable. Ludwig AI confirms this with its analysis of example sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "problematic" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective. Ludwig AI underlines its usefulness in describing situations or issues that pose difficulties or challenges. As shown by the examples, it appears very commonly in News & Media. While versatile, be mindful of overuse and opt for simpler alternatives when appropriate, such as "difficult" or "troublesome". This ensures clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

troublesome

Emphasizes the annoyance or difficulty caused.

difficult

Focuses on the challenge posed.

complicated

Highlights the complex nature of the issue.

questionable

Implies doubt or uncertainty.

debatable

Suggests that the issue is open to discussion and disagreement.

contentious

Highlights the likelihood of causing an argument.

vexing

Emphasizes the frustrating nature of the issue.

awkward

Suggests a lack of grace or ease in dealing with something.

unsettling

Implies that something causes unease or anxiety.

thorny

Emphasizes the painful or irritating aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "problematic" in a sentence?

You can use "problematic" to describe something that poses a problem or is difficult to deal with. For example, "The lack of funding is a "problematic" issue for the project."

What are some alternatives to using "problematic"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "difficult", "troublesome", "complicated", or "questionable".

Is it correct to say something is "problematical" instead of "problematic"?

Both "problematic" and "problematical" are acceptable, but "problematic" is more commonly used. While "problematical" carries the same meaning, it is less frequently encountered in modern English.

What is the difference between describing something as "problematic" versus saying it is "a problem"?

Saying something is "problematic" suggests that it presents or involves a problem, implying a need for attention or resolution. Stating that something is "a problem" is a more direct assertion of its negative impact or hindrance.