tricky relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tricky relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is complicated, difficult, or fraught with challenges. Example: "Their friendship has always been a tricky relationship, filled with misunderstandings and unresolved issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I have a tricky relationship to mothering.

The New York Times

Speed and distance have a tricky relationship.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ukraine has long had a tricky relationship with guns.

The New Yorker

Both of them have a tricky relationship with Downing Street.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's about navigating yet another tricky relationship created by the complexities of divorce — three relationships, really.

The New York Times

I'd love to see some sage advice on how to navigate this tricky relationship".

The New York Times

Sisterland has a tricky relationship between identical twins at its heart.

The Guardian - Books

Mike Ashley's Sports Direct has always had a tricky relationship with the City.

The Guardian - Business

For an artist known for his generous, collaborative approach, working with animals is "a tricky relationship".

The Guardian - Arts

So, what's the best way of managing this sometimes tricky relationship?

The Guardian

Ms. Bunim's creative progeny had a tricky relationship with the producer who made them famous.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "tricky relationship", provide specific examples of what makes the relationship challenging to give your audience a clearer understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "tricky relationship" without specifying the context of the challenges. Instead of saying, "They have a tricky relationship", explain what makes it tricky, such as conflicting goals or communication styles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tricky relationship" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing the nature of the relationship as complicated or difficult. As Ludwig AI shows, it's used to characterize various relationships from personal connections to international politics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tricky relationship" is a common and acceptable way to describe a bond or interaction characterized by complexities and challenges. As evidenced by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in news and media, as well as in formal business contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to provide specific context about what makes the relationship tricky, avoiding overgeneralizations. Alternatives like "complex dynamic" or "strained bond" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific situation. By being clear and specific, you can effectively communicate the nature of the "tricky relationship" and avoid potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strained bond

Suggests tension and pressure affecting the closeness of the relationship.

difficult connection

Focuses on the problems and obstacles in forming or maintaining the relationship.

complex dynamic

Emphasizes the interaction and patterns within the relationship that make it difficult to navigate.

uneasy partnership

Suggests a lack of comfort and trust within the relationship.

challenging association

Highlights the difficulty and effort required to maintain the relationship.

problematic alliance

Indicates that the relationship is causing issues or conflicts.

tenuous link

Implies the relationship is weak and may not last.

complicated entanglement

Highlights the intricate and confusing nature of the relationship.

fragile understanding

Indicates the relationship is easily broken or disrupted.

delicate balance

Implies a need for careful handling to avoid disrupting the relationship.

FAQs

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

You can use "tricky relationship" to describe a connection between people, concepts, or entities that is complex and difficult to manage. For example, "The company has a "tricky relationship" with its suppliers due to frequent disagreements over pricing".

What are some alternatives to "tricky relationship"?

Alternatives include "complex dynamic", "challenging association", or "strained bond", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a relationship "tricky"?

A relationship might be considered "tricky" if it involves frequent misunderstandings, conflicting goals, power imbalances, or a history of unresolved issues.

Is "tricky relationship" a formal or informal expression?

"Tricky relationship" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, you might consider using a more precise term like "complex dynamic" or "challenging association" for added clarity.