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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.

The tricky bit there, however, is the collection of evidence.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

"What criteria will be used to reserve seats for women? That's the tricky part. How do you decide which constituencies are set aside?"

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

Recent history points toward a tricky regulatory path.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

It was a tricky decision given that the engineer made the second trip for the same problem.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

“Your grandpop is a tricky man, baby,” Ma began to explain, but then she got hung up and didn’t seem to know what else to say, so she looked at Dad.

From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds