problematical of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "problematical of" is not commonly used in written English and may be considered awkward or incorrect.
It can be used when discussing something that presents a problem or is problematic in nature, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "The situation is problematical of the larger issues we face in society."

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Most problematical of our entrees was my supposedly sesame-encrusted Ahi tuna.

The New York Times

Palladio further developed the basic plan of his Palazzo Iseppo Porto in the Palazzo Thiene (c. 1545 50), Vicenza, the largest and most problematical of his palace designs, of which only the side and rear blocks were completed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet, though overwhelmingly sympathetic, he also depicts the warts of this most problematical of Russian authors in more painful detail than previous scrutineers.In this section Relabelled The Cleopatra mystery Victorious A better ally?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Some wishful thinking may be at work – he perhaps underestimates the problematical failure of his patchwork of revolutionary activists to offer a coherent alternative beyond interminable protests.

Independent

In addition, HRM is more rapid as the melting analysis is performed in all wells simultaneously whereas DHPLC involves the removal of the PCR product (in itself problematical because of the PCR contamination issue) and then the sequential analysis of each sample.

BMC Cancer

Yet even these weak forms of paternalism may be morally problematical, and of course happiness-based policies can be less gentle than that.

SEP

It is a prohibition of an activity on local territory, involving the problematical sale of a commodity originating in another state, which is actually distributed through the United States Mails.

Cornell University

Although this method provided a basis for many of the assignments, it also proved problematical for assigning some of the closely positioned methyl resonances such as those arising from Ile329 and Ile375.

eLife

Accurately gauging the distances to faraway galaxies has always been the most problematical part of making such measurements.

The New York Times - Books

The personality of the woman comes to the fore, and not just her body, and is associated with the rich fecundity, and the problematical depths of the river.

Yale University

And a buyout at Roosevelt Island, in the East River, would be especially problematical because of its unique jurisdiction: it is maintained, operated and developed by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, which was created by the State Legislature.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "problematical of", ensure the context clearly indicates that something poses difficulties or raises concerns, and consider whether a more common alternative might improve clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "problematical of" when simpler phrases like "problematic for" or "raises concerns about" would be more direct and easily understood. Choose clarity over complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "problematical of" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition, modifying a noun by indicating it presents difficulties or is indicative of underlying issues. Ludwig provides examples where the phrase is used to describe situations that are symptomatic of larger problems.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "problematical of" is a grammatically acceptable but infrequent phrase used to describe something indicative of problems or difficulties. Ludwig highlights that this phrase appears in scientific, news media, and academic contexts. While valid, the Ludwig AI notes simpler alternatives often provide greater clarity. It's register is tilted toward formality, making it less suitable for casual conversation. When writing, consider whether a more common phrase would better convey your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reflective of problems

Focuses on indicating the existence of issues rather than the inherent problem itself.

indicative of problems

Similar to 'reflective of problems', but emphasizes pointing out the presence of issues.

raises concerns about

Shifts the focus to the act of causing worry or doubt about something.

poses challenges to

Highlights the difficulties or obstacles created for a particular aspect.

presents difficulties for

Similar to 'poses challenges to', but emphasizes the act of presenting problems.

creates issues regarding

Focuses on the act of generating problems related to something specific.

is fraught with problems concerning

Emphasizes the presence of numerous issues that cause concern.

is subject to complications related to

Highlights the potential for issues or difficulties in a specific area.

gives rise to issues pertaining to

Focuses on the act of causing problems that are connected to something.

suggests underlying problems with

Highlights the implication or indication of fundamental problems in something.

FAQs

How can I use "problematical of" in a sentence?

You can use "problematical of" to indicate that something is indicative of problems or difficulties, as in "The situation is problematical of the larger issues we face in society."

What can I say instead of "problematical of"?

You can use alternatives like "reflective of problems", "indicative of problems", or "raises concerns about" depending on the context.

Is "problematical of" grammatically correct?

While grammatically acceptable, "problematical of" is not a commonly used phrase. It may be perceived as awkward or unnecessarily complex compared to simpler alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "problematical of"?

It is appropriate to use "problematical of" when you want to emphasize that a specific situation is demonstrative or symptomatic of underlying problems, but consider whether a more common phrasing would be clearer.