problematic

Often prob·lem·at·i·cal

[prob-luh-mat-ik]

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

/ 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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of problematic¹

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

Example Sentences

"The only way the swag gap wouldn't be problematic was if the partner with less swag was a cheerleader for their partner and proud of them rather than emasculated or resentful."

From BBC

But even with increased awareness, people's reactions could still be problematic according to Mrs Harman.

From BBC

On his podcasts and elsewhere, Maron has spoken at length about growing up with narcissistic, emotionally detached parents and how that dynamic likely laid the groundwork for his problematic sense of self.

From Los Angeles Times

Harden our policies and innovate how we use data to spot trends in problematic behaviour.

From BBC

"But we know that the same things that make something problematic also give it a lot of potential in terms of comedy."

From BBC

Related Words

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