tricky
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
difficult to do or deal with because it is complicated or requires a lot of care.
requiring care, skill, or tact because of complexity or hidden difficulties.
Simple“The last question on the math test was very tricky and took me a long time.”
In context“Navigating the legal requirements for a cross-border merger can be incredibly tricky, even for experienced corporate attorneys.”
UsageOften used to describe tasks, questions, or social situations that require careful handling.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
likely to deceive people or use clever tricks to get what you want.
characterised by deceit, craftiness, or a tendency to use underhanded methods.
Simple“Be careful when buying a used car from him; he is known for being a bit tricky.”
In context“The negotiator was known for his tricky tactics, often leading opponents into agreements that favoured his clients more than they initially realised.”
Antonyms
“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.”
From trick + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.