What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
troubling
Example
The news of the recent spike in COVID-19 cases is troubling. [troubling: adjective]
Example
His troubling behavior towards his coworkers led to his termination. [troubling: adjective]
Example
She had a troubling feeling that something bad was going to happen. [troubling: adjective]
problematic
Example
The lack of funding for education is a problematic issue in our society. [problematic: adjective]
Example
His problematic behavior towards women led to public outrage. [problematic: adjective]
Example
The argument he presented was problematic and lacked evidence. [problematic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Problematic is more commonly used than troubling in academic or professional contexts. Troubling is more commonly used in personal or emotional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between troubling and problematic?
Problematic is more formal than troubling. It is often used in academic or professional writing, while troubling is more casual and informal, often used in everyday conversation.
