What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tricky
Example
The math problem was quite tricky, but I managed to solve it. [tricky: adjective]
Example
He's a tricky opponent to play against because he's so unpredictable. [tricky: adjective]
Example
She has a tricky personality, and it's hard to know what she really thinks. [tricky: adjective]
complicated
Example
The instructions for assembling the furniture were very complicated. [complicated: adjective]
Example
The legal case was very complicated, and it took months to resolve. [complicated: adjective]
Example
Their relationship is very complicated because of their different backgrounds and beliefs. [complicated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complicated is more commonly used than tricky in formal and academic contexts, while tricky is more commonly used in informal and colloquial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tricky and complicated?
Complicated is more formal and academic than tricky, which is more informal and colloquial. Therefore, complicated is more appropriate for formal writing, such as academic papers, reports, or business documents, while tricky is more appropriate for informal writing, such as emails, messages, or social media posts.
