problematic questions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problematic questions" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to questions that are difficult to answer or have more than one possible interpretation. For example: "The job interview included some really problematic questions that I didn't know how to answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The terminology of the test's name is problematic: questions 19 and 23 are not about spelling, punctuation or grammar.

The Guardian

The Kremlin, in its statement today, said only that the two leaders had agreed to "find mutually acceptable solutions to problematic questions".

The New York Times

"We will use the powers to solve many problematic questions in the country," he was quoted as saying by the Ukrainska Pravda Web site, www.pravda.com.ua.ua

The New York Times

The resignation of White House staff secretary Rob Porter last week has ensnared the administration of President Trump in yet another web of problematic questions.

The Washington Post

This novel design takes the well known NSGA-II algorithm as a base and considers the use of a new coding scheme and sophisticated problem specific operators to properly deal with the said problematic questions.

Computers & Industrial Engineering

The policy unit's proposals were strongly criticised at the time by the Cabinet Secretary Sir Robert Armstrong, who warned Mrs Thatcher that the proposed attempts at "social engineering" raised some "very problematic questions".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Such images risk provoking the problematic question of whether or not certain Muslim women need "saving".

The Guardian - Opinion

To improve the quality of this kind of studies, the present contribution discusses this problematic question and its consequences and proposes a methodology for the validation of indicators.

Environmental Impact Assessment Review

Also peppering her studiedly fragmented narrative is a series of knock-knock jokes, with the existentially problematic question "Who's there?" Who indeed?

The Guardian - Books

But the swift early successes in Afghanistan also raise a problematic question: Why mess with a military when it's winning?

The New York Times - Magazine

But another part of the answer may be related to a slightly more problematic question: was there a US interest in the outcome of the Irish referendum?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider alternatives like "complex questions" or "sensitive questions" if they more accurately reflect the specific issue.

Common error

While "problematic questions" is widely understood, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "difficult questions" or "tough questions" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problematic questions" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "problematic" modifies the noun "questions". This indicates that the questions being referred to present difficulties, challenges, or potential issues. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "problematic questions" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes inquiries presenting difficulties or concerns. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is suitable for use in written English. While versatile, it is often found in news, scientific, and formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the nature of the problem. Depending on the context, consider using alternative phrases such as "difficult questions" or "sensitive questions".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorny questions

Replaces "problematic" with a more evocative adjective suggesting difficulty and potential conflict.

difficult questions

Uses a more common and straightforward synonym for "problematic".

complex questions

Emphasizes the intricate nature of the questions.

sensitive questions

Highlights the delicate or controversial nature of the questions.

tricky questions

Suggests questions designed to deceive or catch someone out.

troublesome questions

Indicates that the questions are causing difficulty or annoyance.

intractable questions

Highlights the difficulty to find a solution.

controversial questions

Highlights that the questions raise debates.

questionable questions

Focuses on the validity or appropriateness of the questions themselves.

challenging questions

Focuses on the difficulty to answer them.

FAQs

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

You can use "problematic questions" to describe inquiries that are difficult to answer or raise concerns. For example, "The investigation revealed several "problematic questions" about the company's financial practices."

What are some alternatives to "problematic questions"?

Alternatives include "difficult questions", "complex questions", "sensitive questions", or "thorny questions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "problematic questions" formal or informal?

While generally acceptable, "problematic questions" leans towards the formal side. In more casual settings, consider using phrases like "tough questions" or "tricky questions".

What makes a question "problematic"?

A question can be considered "problematic" if it's difficult to answer due to a lack of information, ethical considerations, potential for misinterpretation, or if it raises sensitive issues.