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be problematic

[/bi prɑbˈlɛmætɪk/]
verb phrase
ser problemático
1. to be difficult to deal with or causing difficulties; to present problems or challenges
The lack of funding will be problematic for the project.
A falta de financiamento será problemática para o projeto.
2. to be questionable, controversial, or potentially offensive
Some of his comments have been problematic in recent interviews.
Alguns dos seus comentários têm sido problemáticos em entrevistas recentes.
3. to be uncertain or doubtful
It remains problematic whether the solution will work.
Continua problemático se a solução funcionará.
NYC Slang
be sus (suspicious/questionable)
Synonyms
be troublesomebe difficultbe challengingbe controversialcause problems
Antonyms
be unproblematicbe straightforwardbe simplebe acceptable

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ser problemático/ser problemática
Most common usage across Brazil
São Paulo
ser problemático
Standard usage, sometimes 'causar problema'
Rio de Janeiro
ser problemático
Standard usage in formal and informal contexts
Portugal
ser problemático/constituir um problema
More formal alternative with 'constituir'

Related Idioms & Phrases

be a can of worms
be a thorn in someone's side
be a sticky wicket
open a can of worms
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