Problematic
ˌprɒbləˈmætɪk
Definitions
2 meaningsPresenting a problem or difficulty; open to question or doubt.
ˌprɒbləˈmætɪk
Causing problems or difficulties; difficult to deal with or solve.
The new software update is proving to be quite problematic, causing many users to experience glitches.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to build a LEGO castle, but the instructions are missing! That missing instruction manual makes the castle project 'problematic' because it makes it hard to build.
👶 For kids: When something is problematic, it means it might cause problems or be hard to do.
More Examples
The economic forecast is problematic due to the unpredictable global market conditions.
His problematic behavior at the party led to an argument.
The company's financial situation is increasingly problematic.
How It's Used
"The proposed legislation is seen as problematic by many interest groups."
"The methodology of the study proved to be problematic, casting doubt on the results."
"The merger faced several problematic hurdles during regulatory review."
Open to question or debate; doubtful.
ˌprɒbləˈmætɪk
Raising a problem or doubt; not straightforward.
The evidence presented in court was deemed problematic, as it contained inconsistencies.
💡 Simply: If you're not sure if something is correct, you might say it is 'problematic'. For instance, if a recipe seems to have too much salt, that could be seen as problematic.
👶 For kids: If something makes you wonder if it's right or good, it's problematic.
More Examples
The new policy has been viewed as problematic by various stakeholders.
His problematic past raised serious concerns about his suitability for the role.
The problematic consequences of the decision were soon apparent.
How It's Used
"The ethical implications of AI are becoming increasingly problematic."
"The study highlighted problematic social inequalities that needed addressing."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
The elephant in the room
A problem or difficult issue that everyone knows about but no one wants to talk about.
"The company's financial troubles are the elephant in the room; everyone knows about them but no one wants to discuss it."
From Greek *problēmatikos* meaning 'presenting a problem,' related to *problēma* ('problem') and *ballein* ('to throw, put').
The word's usage has increased significantly with the rise of more complex social, technological, and ethical discussions.
Memory tip
Think of a 'problem' that is 'matic' (automatic) - a constant source of trouble.
Word Origin
"a problem, something thrown forward"