problematic case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problematic case" can be used in written English.
This phrase usually refers to a situation, person, or problem that is difficult to solve or deal with. For example, "The court was faced with a particularly problematic case involving two people with strong opposing views."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Then Boehner must grapple with the problematic case of Don Cazayoux.

The Washington Post

"This is a problematic case, and it doesn't look good for EA, simply from a PR point of view.

The Guardian - Tech

Another problematic case involves a foreclosure action taken by Deutsche Bank against a borrower in the Bronx in New York.

The New York Times

We also thank counsel for the respective-parties for their cooperation in participating at numerous scheduling conferences and in providing the Court with electronic appendices, thereby helping us effectively to tackle this difficult and problematic case.

Harvard University

Sue Keable, Cambridge In Ian McEwan's The Children Act (Jonathan Cape), Fiona Maye, a leading high court judge in her 50s, is forced to come to terms with her childlessness and a rift in her marriage while she also tackles the problematic case of a teenage boy who is refusing crucial medical treatment on religious grounds (he is a Jehovah's Witness).

The Guardian - Books

The FT writes, though, that this new report goes further: Although the IMF has made such arguments in public recently – saying that it may have underestimated the "multiplier effect" that tough austerity measures have on economic growth – the report says that Greece was a particularly problematic case because of the government's administrative weaknesses.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Related: So-Called 'Suicide by Cop' Cases Highlight Problematic Police Response to Mental Illness.

Vice

Pro-euthanasia activist doctors were overrepresented in problematic cases.

The Washington Post

Nasal polyps, extensive disease, and previous surgery are problematic cases.

Operative Techniques in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

A proposal is made for how to deal with these problematic cases.

Artificial Intelligence

For more complex or problematic cases a quantitative approach is required.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a legal or formal dispute, using "problematic case" is appropriate. For less formal situations, consider alternatives like "difficult situation" or "complex issue".

Common error

Avoid using "problematic case" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "issue" or "situation" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problematic case" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It serves to identify and categorize a specific instance or situation as one that presents difficulties, complications, or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "problematic case" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a situation or instance that presents difficulties or challenges. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating its suitability for formal and neutral registers. While versatile, remember to consider simpler alternatives like "difficult situation" or "complex issue" in less formal settings. Recognizing its function and purpose will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult situation

Focuses on the challenging nature of the circumstances rather than specifically labeling it a "case".

complex issue

Highlights the intricate and multifaceted nature of the matter, omitting the legal or investigative connotation of "case".

challenging scenario

Emphasizes the demanding aspect of the situation, suitable when describing a hypothetical or potential situation.

thorny matter

Indicates a sensitive and potentially contentious issue, adding an emotional layer not explicitly present in "problematic case".

intricate problem

Underscores the complexity and difficulty in resolving the issue, removing any specific legal or procedural implication.

sensitive issue

Focuses on the delicate nature of the situation, where tact and care are required.

troublesome instance

Highlights the bothersome and inconvenient nature of the situation, shifting the emphasis from problem-solving to annoyance.

awkward predicament

Emphasizes the uncomfortable and embarrassing nature of the situation.

unsettling affair

Highlights the disturbing or disquieting aspect of the situation.

delicate situation

Indicates the fragility and potential for negative outcomes if not handled carefully.

FAQs

How can I use "problematic case" in a sentence?

You can use "problematic case" to describe a situation that presents difficulties or challenges, such as "The lawyer was assigned a particularly "problematic case" involving conflicting testimonies".

What can I say instead of "problematic case"?

You can use alternatives like "difficult situation", "complex issue", or "challenging scenario" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "problematic case" or "difficult case"?

Both "problematic case" and "difficult case" are acceptable, but "problematic case" often implies that there are specific issues or complications involved, whereas "difficult case" simply suggests it's hard to resolve.

What makes a case "problematic"?

A case can be considered "problematic" if it involves complex legal issues, conflicting evidence, ethical dilemmas, or significant public attention, making it challenging to handle and resolve fairly.