problematic — presenting a problem or difficulty; doubtful or questionable
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: presenting a problem or difficulty; doubtful or questionable
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌprɑbləˈmætɪk/
Example Sentences
- My cat's habit of sleeping on my laptop keyboard is quite problematic during video calls.
- The new policy has proven problematic for small businesses.
- Using your phone as an alarm clock becomes problematic when the battery dies overnight.
problematic
ADJECTIVE[/ˌprɑbləˈmætɪk/]
presenting a problem or difficulty; doubtful or questionable

The new bridge design turned out to be seriously problematic during testing.

When systematic becomes problematic, automatic fails dramatic!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Greek 'problematikos' meaning 'pertaining to a problem,' derived from 'problema' (something thrown forward, a difficulty) composed of 'pro-' (forward) and 'ballein' (to throw). The word entered English via French in the 16th century.
Breakdown
problem (from Greek pro- 'forward' + ballein 'to throw') + -atic (Greek -atikos, suffix meaning 'of or pertaining to') = problematic (adjective meaning 'presenting difficulty or doubt')
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat's habit of sleeping on my laptop keyboard is quite problematic during video calls.”
“The new policy has proven problematic for small businesses.”
“Using your phone as an alarm clock becomes problematic when the battery dies overnight.”
“The data collection methods used in this study are potentially problematic.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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