problematic

American  

[prob-luh-mat-ik] / ˌprɒb ləˈmæt ɪk /

Often problematical

adjective

1. of the nature of a problem; doubtful; uncertain; questionable.

   We've discussed the problematic benefits of the treatment.

   Synonyms:

   ambiguous, dubious, unsettled, indeterminate, unsure

2. involving or presenting a problem that is difficult to deal with or solve.

   She faces a problematic decision.

3. tending or likely to elicit objections or disapproval; offensive: We've all had to deal with problematic relatives during the holidays.

   My ex-boyfriend's political opinions were often embarrassingly problematic.

   We've all had to deal with problematic relatives during the holidays.

---

problematic British  

/ ˌprɒbləˈmætɪk /

adjective

1. having the nature or appearance of a problem; questionable

2. obsolete logic (of a proposition) asserting that a property may or may not hold Compare apodeictic assertoric

---

Other Word Forms

• nonproblematic adjective
• nonproblematical adjective
• nonproblematically adverb
• problematically adverb
• quasi-problematic adjective
• unproblematic adjective
• unproblematical adjective
• unproblematically adverb

Etymology

Origin of problematic

First recorded in 1600–10; from Late Latin problēmaticus, from Greek problēmatikós, equivalent to problēmat- (stem of próblēma ) problem + -ikos -ic

Explanation

Something problematic poses a problem or causes difficulties. Your ambitions to become the next great leader of Spain are great, but your inability to speak Spanish might prove problematic. Around 1600, the word problematical was shortened and problematic was born. Perhaps they wanted to make it less problematic for spellers. It's an adjective that means tough, hard to solve, or even questionable. A flat tire in the middle of the desert would certainly be problematic, as would a star witness with a history of telling lies.

Example Sentences

As long as the value isn’t further destroyed through other problematic acquisitions, our investment should do well under almost any circumstance.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

Prosecutors alleged the medical team ignored warning signs and provided problematic home care, contributing to his Nov. 25, 2020, heart attack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Goldman says this strategy is simply a workaround to hold platforms accountable for problematic third party content it publishes.

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2026

This is where the law is somewhat problematic.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

“It’s not problematic, Mr. Ali. I like having his bed in there.”

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore

Related Words

• ambiguous
• dubious
• moot
• precarious
• puzzling
• questionable
• tricky
• uncertain
• unsettled