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Problematic: meaning, definitions and examples

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problematic

 

[ˌprɒbləˈmætɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in social context

Causing problems or difficulties; difficult to deal with. Often used to describe a person or situation that is challenging or troublesome.

Synonyms

challenging, controversial, difficult, troublesome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
problematic

This word is used when something is full of problems or difficult to deal with, usually in a negative way.

  • The new software update is problematic and has caused many issues.
  • His behavior in the meeting was problematic.
troublesome

This word is often used to describe something or someone that causes a lot of problems or needs a lot of attention. It has a negative connotation.

  • The engine has been troublesome recently.
  • That child can be very troublesome at times.
difficult

This word is generally used to describe something that is hard to do or understand.

  • The exam was very difficult.
  • She found it difficult to balance work and family life.
challenging

This word is used in a more neutral or even positive sense to describe something that requires effort and skill to handle.

  • The project was challenging, but it helped me grow professionally.
  • I find learning a new language to be very challenging.
controversial

This word is used to describe topics or issues that cause a lot of disagreement or debate.

  • The decision to build a new highway is highly controversial.
  • His comments on social media were very controversial.

Examples of usage

  • It's hard to have a conversation with her because she always brings up problematic topics.
  • The company faced a problematic situation when their main supplier went out of business.
Context #2 | Adjective

in academic context

Requiring special attention or solutions; not straightforward or easily solved.

Synonyms

challenging, complex, complicated, troublesome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
problematic

Use when something is likely to cause problems or difficulties. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The software update is proving to be highly problematic.
  • His behavior at meetings is becoming increasingly problematic.
complex

Best used when something is intricate and has many interconnected parts. It is often neutral.

  • The math problem was very complex, requiring multiple steps to solve.
  • He explained the complex network of relationships in the organization.
complicated

Suggested for situations that are not only detailed but also difficult to understand or solve. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • The legal issues were complicated and required expert advice.
  • Their relationship is complicated, with many ups and downs.
challenging

Appropriate for situations that are difficult but also present an opportunity for growth or achievement. It often has a positive or neutral connotation.

  • The new project is going to be very challenging, but we're excited about it.
  • She found the exam challenging, yet rewarding.
troublesome

Used for something that causes trouble or inconvenience. This word tends to have a negative connotation.

  • The new policy changes are troublesome for many employees.
  • The troublesome child kept interrupting the class.

Examples of usage

  • The students found the math problem to be quite problematic and needed extra help to solve it.
  • The research project encountered some problematic data that needed to be carefully analyzed.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek 'problema,' meaning 'a question or issue to be solved.'
  • It entered the English language in the late 19th century, reflecting growing concern over complex issues in society.

Psychology

  • In psychology, a 'problematic' behavior refers to actions that cause issues in personal or social functioning.
  • Identifying problematic behaviors is essential in therapies to promote healthier patterns.

Education

  • In academic settings, teaching about problematic issues encourages critical thinking and moral reasoning.
  • Discussions about problematic topics can be crucial in developing skills for conflict resolution and negotiation.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies tackle problematic themes, such as addiction or social injustice, prompting viewers to reflect on real-world issues.
  • Social media often highlights problematic aspects of popular culture, leading to debates and discussions online.

Social Sciences

  • In sociology, identifying problematic social systems can lead to movements for change and social justice.
  • Problematic social issues, like poverty and discrimination, are central topics in social policy discussions.

Translations

Translations of the word "problematic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 problemático

🇮🇳 समस्याग्रस्त

🇩🇪 problematisch

🇮🇩 bermasalah

🇺🇦 проблематичний

🇵🇱 problematyczny

🇯🇵 問題のある

🇫🇷 problématique

🇪🇸 problemático

🇹🇷 sorunlu

🇰🇷 문제 있는

🇸🇦 مشكلة

🇨🇿 problematický

🇸🇰 problematický

🇨🇳 有问题的

🇸🇮 problematičen

🇮🇸 vandamál

🇰🇿 мәселелі

🇬🇪 პრობლემატური

🇦🇿 problemli

🇲🇽 problemático

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,508 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.