tricky point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tricky point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to an issue, idea, or concept that is difficult to understand or explain. For example, "This is a tricky point to understand, so I'm going to spend some extra time walking through it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Correction: Toilet provision ReprintsAnother tricky point is his group's denial of Japan's wartime atrocities.

The Economist

Toronto's dullness is what makes it exciting – a tricky point to grasp.

The Guardian

It is taking place at a particularly tricky point in time.

The Guardian - Money

The tricky point comes when the credit limit is reached.For governments, that credit limit can vary enormously.

The Economist

In turn, tourism could suffer a tricky point for the environment minister, who also holds the tourism portfolio.

The Economist

That is a tricky point to make because Sharon's visit did not take place until late September.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Despite the tricky points of view and fragmented chronology, "Sorry" has a very simple plot.

The New York Times - Books

Presumably, at certain tricky points, this advice-to-self has proved invaluable.

The Guardian

The balance and honesty of his judgment, often on tricky points of policy, were a model of charity.

The Guardian

But while payday lenders say the loans help people ease through tricky points of the month, the research indicates many become trapped in a spiral of debt because they cannot afford to repay their loans by the agreed date, and so incur exorbitant penalty charges.

The Guardian - Money

These boil down to tricky points in accounting, something not likely to thrill most journalists or Swedish economists.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tricky point", ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the point difficult or challenging to understand. Providing additional clarification can enhance comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "tricky point" without specifying why it's tricky. Be precise about what elements make it challenging or complex, guiding the reader's understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tricky point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific issue or detail that is challenging or complicated. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tricky point" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a challenging or complicated aspect of a topic. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used and understood, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. While suitable for general use, more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or highly professional settings. When using "tricky point", it's best practice to specify why the point is tricky, providing clarity and context for the reader. Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sensitive point

Focuses on the delicacy or potential controversy associated with the issue.

delicate point

Highlights the need for careful handling or consideration of the issue.

touchy point

Emphasizes the potential for causing offense or disagreement.

sticky point

Implies a challenge that is difficult to resolve or move past.

awkward point

Indicates discomfort or unease surrounding the issue.

thorny issue

Replaces "point" with "issue" emphasizing the problematic aspect.

challenging aspect

Shifts the focus to the difficulty presented by the element.

problematic area

Highlights the troublesome nature of the specific aspect.

intricate detail

Underscores the complexity and potential for confusion.

complicated matter

Highlights that issue/subject is not straightforward.

FAQs

How can I use "tricky point" in a sentence?

You can use "tricky point" to refer to a difficult aspect of a topic. For example, "The "tricky point" is understanding how the legislation will affect small businesses."

What are some alternatives to saying "tricky point"?

Alternatives include "sensitive point", "delicate point", or "challenging aspect depending on the specific nuance you want to convey".

Is "tricky point" formal or informal language?

"Tricky point" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal synonyms might be preferred in academic writing.

What makes "tricky point" different from "difficult issue"?

"Tricky point" often suggests a specific detail or aspect that is hard to grasp or explain, while "difficult issue" implies a broader, more complex problem.