very tricky

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very tricky" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is difficult or complicated to understand or deal with. Example: "The puzzle was very tricky, and it took me hours to solve it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Very tricky.

The New York Times

It's very tricky.

The New York Times - Books

It was very tricky".

The New Yorker

"So it's very tricky.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's very, very tricky.

The Guardian - Music

"But it's very tricky.

The New York Times

A very tricky one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Very tricky, I'd say.

The New Yorker

This one was very tricky.

The New York Times

Transfer prices are very tricky.

The Economist

It's a very tricky operation.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation as "very tricky", provide specific details about what makes it so to enhance clarity and impact. For example, instead of saying "Negotiating this deal is very tricky", specify "Negotiating this deal is "very tricky" due to conflicting interests and tight deadlines".

Common error

Avoid using "very tricky" as a standalone description without further explanation. Over-reliance on "very" can weaken your writing. Instead, use a more descriptive adjective or elaborate on the specific challenges involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very tricky" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun. It intensifies the adjective "tricky", indicating a heightened degree of difficulty, complexity, or deceptiveness. Ludwig AI examples showcase its use in describing conditions, operations, situations, and characters.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

12%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "very tricky" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that is particularly difficult, complex, or deceptive. As Ludwig AI illustrates, it's frequently used in news and media to convey challenges in various situations. While acceptable in many contexts, providing specific details about what makes something "very tricky" can enhance clarity. Alternatives like "highly complex" or "particularly challenging" offer nuanced ways to express similar meanings. Overusing "very" without context should be avoided for stronger, more descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly complex

Emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the subject.

particularly challenging

Highlights the demanding nature of the task or situation.

extremely delicate

Focuses on the need for careful handling to avoid damage or failure.

quite complicated

Indicates a significant level of complexity and involved processes.

especially problematic

Underscores the troublesome aspects and potential difficulties involved.

exceptionally intricate

Emphasizes the fine details and complex arrangement of elements.

uncommonly difficult

Stresses the unusual level of hardship or complexity.

remarkably sensitive

Highlights the susceptibility to change or disturbance, requiring caution.

notoriously troublesome

Points out the well-known or established difficulty associated with something.

seriously perplexing

Emphasizes the confusing and baffling nature of the subject.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "very tricky"?

You can use alternatives like "highly complex", "extremely delicate", or "particularly challenging" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I use "very tricky" in a sentence?

Use "very tricky" to describe something that requires careful handling or is difficult to manage. For example, "The situation is "very tricky" because multiple stakeholders are involved", or "Navigating the legal landscape can be "very tricky" for startups".

Is it better to say "very tricky" or "quite tricky"?

"Very tricky" and "quite tricky" are similar, but "very tricky" suggests a higher degree of difficulty or complexity. The choice depends on the specific context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

What's the difference between "very tricky" and "very difficult"?

While both phrases indicate a challenge, "very tricky" often implies that the difficulty stems from complexity, potential for deception, or the need for careful maneuvering. "Very difficult" is a more general term for something hard to achieve. For example, defusing a bomb can be "very tricky", while climbing Mount Everest is "very difficult".