variants
also problematical
1
as in difficult
requiring exceptional skill or caution in performance or handling
the problematic situation of somehow having two dates for the same party
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in questionable
giving good reason for being doubted, questioned, or challenged
whether we should even bother finishing the project at this point is problematic
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of problematic
Tokyo was on a list of potential destinations, but the Laver Cup’s partnership with the ATP Tour, which holds a regular-season tournament immediately after its slot on the calendar, makes bringing the event there problematic.
—
Matthew Futterman,
New York Times,
17 June 2026
What makes these foods problematic?
—
Sandee Lamotte,
CNN Money,
17 June 2026
This, of course, is problematic for the homegrown haters because the opposing opinion from neutral outsiders weakens their argument and should strengthen our resolve.
—
Armando Salguero Outkick,
FOXNews.com,
16 June 2026
Experts say beetles can be both beneficial and problematic, depending on their stage of life.
—
Tiffani Jackson,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for problematic
Matthew Futterman,
New York Times,
17 June 2026
What makes these foods problematic?
—
Sandee Lamotte,
CNN Money,
17 June 2026
This, of course, is problematic for the homegrown haters because the opposing opinion from neutral outsiders weakens their argument and should strengthen our resolve.
—
Armando Salguero Outkick,
FOXNews.com,
16 June 2026
Experts say beetles can be both beneficial and problematic, depending on their stage of life.
—
Tiffani Jackson,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for problematic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for problematic
Adjective
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Some organizers say America's complicated and at times difficult history is being glossed over by fireworks and flag-waving ‒ or that it's being politicized by an administration that has actively worked to advance its version of history.
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The move gives Marte another chance to work his way back to the major leagues after a difficult stretch that included a brief stop with the Cincinnati Reds organization earlier this year before a cut.
Adjective
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The logic here is highly questionable — dying for your queen and dying by her hand are not equivalent sacrifices — but let’s blame Lorent’s lapse in judgment on the chaos of the moment.
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Indeed, Femi is just that, even despite a questionable loss to Lesnar in their second match at Clash in Italy last month.
Adjective
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Summer 2026 is having a tough time deciding on this season’s dominating nail trend.
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These are typically low-wage jobs that the healthcare industry writ large has had a tough time recruiting for since the pandemic.
Adjective
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The guest star’s fate looks dubious in an exclusive new clip released Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s sixth episode.
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Japan has long held the dubious honor of a revolving door of prime ministers.
Adjective
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According to the text of the current agreement, the most sensitive nuclear issues are not yet agreed to on paper.
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Just last month, an attack on Canvas, a software used in schools and colleges, put thousands of students at risk by exposing sensitive information.
Adjective
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Speech — Intimidation as censorship The First Amendment protects disputable speech, not agreeable.
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That disputable appraisal turned a few heads, and people began peppering the bot for further remarks on Musk’s physical prowess.
Adjective
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This will surely bring up some complicated emotions.
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Behind the glitter, grooves and Grammy-winning legacy of Earth, Wind & Fire sits a more complicated story, revealing a more personal side of the band’s founder, Maurice White.
Adjective
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Reynoso said suspicious bank activity and withdrawals were made to their accounts.
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Be highly suspicious of content that offers simple, absolute solutions to complex medical conditions.
Cite this Entry
“Problematic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/problematic. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.
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