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Definitions

tricky

[trik-ee] / ˈtrɪk i /
ADJECTIVE
complicated, difficult
Synonyms
STRONGEST
complex critical delicate intricate knotty precarious problematic risky rocky sensitive sticky thorny ticklish touchy unstable
WEAK
catchy involved perplexing quirky touch-and-go undependable
Antonyms
STRONGEST
easy simple smooth sailing solvable sure untroublesome
WEAK
uncomplicated
ADJECTIVE
deceptive, sly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
shifty slippery smooth subtle treacherous
WEAK
artful astute cagey catchy clever crafty cunning deceitful deep delusive delusory devious dishonest foxy greasy guileful insidious intelligent keen misleading scheming shady sharp shrewd slick streetwise wily witted wry
Antonyms
STRONGEST
forthright honest
WEAK
aboveboard frank

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A combination of unusually dry conditions and unseasonably high temperatures will make Augusta National’s famously tricky greens even faster and even less forgiving.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 11, 2026

Arsenal can further extend their lead when hosting Bournemouth in Saturday's lunchtime kick-off, before City face a tricky trip to sixth-placed Chelsea the following day.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

“Those are tricky inquiries because it depends on someone’s state of mind,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

This is where out-of-state buying gets genuinely tricky, especially for budget buyers.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

‘That is a squelching tricky problem around here,’ the BFG answered.

From "The BFG" by Roald Dahl