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 tricky, but I managed to solve it. [tricky: adjective]
Example
She has a tricky personality, and it's hard to know what she really thinks. [tricky: adjective]
problematic
Example
The new policy is problematic because it doesn't take into account the needs of all employees. [problematic: adjective]
Example
His behavior has become problematic, and we need to address it. [problematic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tricky is more commonly used in everyday language than problematic. Tricky is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while problematic is more formal and is often used in academic or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tricky and problematic?
Problematic is more formal than tricky, and is often used in academic or professional contexts. Tricky is more casual and informal, and is suitable for use in everyday language.
