Word
tricky
US/ˈtɹɪki/
UK/tɹˈɪki/
Definitions
01difficult or complicated
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. difficult to do or deal with because it is complicated or requires a lot of care.
adj. requiring care, skill, or tact because of complexity or hidden difficulties.
“The last question on the math test was very tricky and took me a long time.”
“Navigating the legal requirements for a cross-border merger can be incredibly tricky, even for experienced corporate attorneys.”
Usage
Often used to describe tasks, questions, or social situations that require careful handling.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02deceptive or dishonest
C1 · Advanced Informal
adj. likely to deceive people or use clever tricks to get what you want.
adj. characterised by deceit, craftiness, or a tendency to use underhanded methods.
“Be careful when buying a used car from him; he is known for being a bit tricky.”
“The negotiator was known for his tricky tactics, often leading opponents into agreements that favoured his clients more than they initially realised.”
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“But it can be tricky being a performer who wants to be liked, playing the least likable man in the world.” “The famous Palio dell’ Assunta horse race will take place this afternoon in Siena, Italy after being delayed twice due to tricky weather conditions.” Etymology
From trick + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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