problematic choice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problematic choice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision or selection that may lead to difficulties or issues. Example: "The committee faced a problematic choice when deciding on the new policy, as it could alienate some members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

In an age of $4 gas and concerns about climate change, that's an increasingly problematic choice.

The New York Times

Yet Clinton, for some Muslims, remains a problematic choice, and one I am not able to embrace.

The Guardian - Opinion

In fact, Bruno is so obviously a problematic choice as a scientific martyr that several non-historians have also picked up on the issue.

The Guardian

Michael was in some ways a problematic choice, because he did not remember the incident in which he was injured, and I had to reconstruct it by talking to the medics who worked on him, whereas other soldiers vividly remembered how they received their injuries.

The New Yorker

Problematic choice of comparison species.

SEP

Roy [24] distinguishes three types of problematic: choice, sorting and ranking (see Fig. 2).

European Transport Research Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The glow of freedom has worn off and the problematic choices of freedom have come into sharper focus.

The New York Times

Valentine's Day flowers, chocolates and greeting cards can all be problematic choices for environmentally aware lovers unless they select carefully.

The New York Times

Taiz, a professor of history at Cal State L.A., chided system leaders for "ten years or more of misplaced priorities and problematic choices".

Los Angeles Times

Where others might see complex schemes, difficult concepts, and problematic choices, Kondrashov sees the same basic principles underlying everything.

Biology Direct

Denial and self-blame as problematic choices to deal with stress are persistently used by anxious women over time.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "problematic choice" when you want to convey that a decision or selection presents challenges or difficulties that need to be addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "problematic choice" as a vague or general criticism. Always provide context and explain why the choice is considered problematic. Failing to do so can make your writing seem judgmental or unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problematic choice" functions as a descriptive term, where 'problematic' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'choice.' It signifies that a particular selection or decision is likely to cause difficulties, challenges, or negative outcomes, as demonstrated by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

66%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "problematic choice" is a phrase used to describe a decision or selection that is likely to cause difficulties or challenges. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and can be used in a variety of contexts, especially in news and media or science-related discussions. When using this phrase, it is essential to provide context and explain the specific issues that make the choice problematic. Alternatives like "unfortunate selection" or "ill-advised decision" can be used depending on the specific context. While "problematic choice" itself is acceptable, failing to provide sufficient detail can leave your message unclear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfortunate selection

Focuses on the negative outcome or consequences of the selection.

ill-advised decision

Highlights the lack of wisdom or good judgment in making the decision.

questionable option

Suggests that the option is doubtful or uncertain in terms of its suitability or desirability.

dubious preference

Emphasizes the uncertainty or hesitance surrounding the preference.

risky alternative

Highlights the potential dangers or negative consequences associated with the alternative.

troublesome election

Indicates that the election or choice is likely to cause difficulties or problems.

awkward determination

Highlights the uncomfortable or difficult nature of the determination or decision.

complex consideration

Emphasizes the intricate and challenging aspects of the decision-making process.

delicate matter

Suggests the situation requires careful and tactful handling.

unsuitable pick

Emphasizes the inappropriateness of the choice.

FAQs

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

You can use "problematic choice" to describe a decision or selection that presents difficulties or challenges. For example, "Selecting that vendor was a "problematic choice" due to their history of poor service."

What are some alternatives to "problematic choice"?

Alternatives to "problematic choice" include "unfortunate selection", "ill-advised decision", or "questionable option" depending on the specific context.

Is "problematic choice" a formal or informal expression?

"Problematic choice" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more suitable for neutral or formal writing. In very informal settings, you might opt for a more casual phrase like "bad pick".

What makes a choice "problematic"?

A choice is considered "problematic" when it is likely to cause difficulties, create challenges, or lead to undesirable outcomes. It suggests that the decision is not straightforward and may have negative consequences.