tricky

[ trik-ee ]

adjective

, trick·i·er, trick·i·est.

1. given to or characterized by deceitful tricks; crafty; wily.

   Synonyms: shrewd, sly, artful

2. skilled in clever tricks or dodges.

   Synonyms: adroit, skillful

3. deceptive, uncertain, or difficult to deal with or handle.

   Synonyms: perilous, unreliable, unpredictable, doubtful

tricky

/ ˈtrɪkɪ /

adjective

1. involving snags or difficulties

   a tricky job

2. needing careful and tactful handling

   a tricky situation

3. characterized by tricks; sly; wily

   a tricky dealer

Derived Forms

• ˈtrickiness, noun
• ˈtrickily, adverb

Other Words From

• tricki·ly adverb
• tricki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tricky¹

First recorded in 1780–90; trick + -y ¹

Example Sentences

In April's best-of-five qualifier against France - a tricky away tie on clay which British players have struggled on recently - Raducanu won both her matches with Boulter adding another to secure their progress.

From BBC

Regulations can make it trickier for companies to gain needed licenses or clearance to sell themselves to bigger rivals.

From New York Times

In a sport where players operate as sole traders for the majority of the year, switching from a mindset of pursuing individual glory to achieving a common goal can be tricky.

From BBC

After starting with a tricky Six Nations in 2023, which featured only one win and the threat of strike action against England over contract issues, Gatland steadied the ship for the World Cup.

From BBC

She has made it through the tricky 60-second showcase by flipping and body popping in a street dance routine.

From BBC

Related Words

• complex
• critical
• delicate
• intricate
• knotty
• precarious
• problematic
• risky
• rocky
• sensitive
• sticky
• thorny
• ticklish
• touchy
• unstable