Problematic

Definition

‍Problematic refers to something that poses a problem or difficulty, or something that is doubtful, uncertain, or questionable in terms of correctness or quality.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌprɑbləˈmætɪk/
• Respelling: PRAHB-luh-MAT-ik (with "PRAHB" as in "problem," "luh" as in "luck," and "MAT" as in "mat," and "ik" as in "tick")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌprɒbləˈmætɪk/
• Respelling: PROB-luh-MAT-ik (with "PROB" as in "problem," "luh" as in "luck," "MAT" as in "mat," and "ik" as in "tick")

In both dialects, "problematic" is pronounced with the primary stress on the third syllable, "MAT." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "MAT" part.

Etymology

‍Derived from the Late Latin problematicus, which means 'pertaining to a problem', itself coming from the Greek problematicos. This term originally referred to something 'relating to a problem presented by a philosopher as a subject for discussion.'

Derivatives

• Problematically (adverb)
• Problematicalness (noun)
• Unproblematic (adjective)
• Problematics (noun, plural used for the study or collection of problems)
• Problematicity (noun, the quality or state of being problematic)

Synonyms

• Troublesome
• Questionable
• Difficult

Antonyms

• Unproblematic
• Straightforward
• Simple

Usage

‍The term "problematic" is commonly used in both everyday and academic language to describe situations, concepts, or objects that present complications or are likely to cause difficulties. It often carries a connotation of doubt or a need for further scrutiny.

Related Terms

• Problem
• Issue
• Complication

Detailed Definitions

As an Adjective

• Constituting or presenting a problem or difficulty: "The lack of data makes it problematic to arrive at a reliable conclusion."
• Open to debate or question; debatable: "His role in the negotiation was problematic because of his previous affiliations."
• Of the nature of a problem; difficult to solve: "The problematic nature of the ancient texts makes translation challenging."