# tricky

/ˈtɹɪki/ (US) · /tɹˈɪki/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tricky
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. difficult or complicated

adjective · CEFR B2

difficult to do or deal with because it is complicated or requires a lot of care.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. deceptive or dishonest

adjective · CEFR C1 · Informal

likely to deceive people or use clever tricks to get what you want.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The last question on the test is very tricky.
- Finding the right balance between work and family life can be tricky during the first few months of a new job.
- While the basic mechanics of the software are intuitive, the advanced settings prove tricky for even experienced users to navigate without a manual.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.