🇬🇧🇨🇳 tricky - 棘手的 : English Lesson

Meaning of "tricky" ("棘手的"), detailed definition, and a short video lesson below.

Tricky means something is hard to do or figure out because it’s sneaky, confusing, or has a hidden surprise that can easily fool you if you’re not careful.

Watch and listen to this English flashcard to understand the word in more detail, with an easy example sentence.

The math problem was so tricky that even the calculator sighed and asked for a break.

My little brother tried a tricky plan to steal snacks by blaming it on an invisible raccoon.

Mom’s tricky question, “Who made this mess?” made everyone in the room suddenly study the ceiling.

The tricky riddle said, “I’m easy,” which was the biggest lie of the century.

Our dog is tricky; he pretends he doesn’t understand “sit” but understands “chicken” perfectly.

A small boy finds a locked box with a tricky lid. He pulls, pushes, and studies a tricky catch behind a ribbon. The ribbon hides a tricky knot and a tricky loop that move when he breathes. He thinks, tries again, smiles when he opens it—happy that the tricky box was not too hard.

This word is at the B2 level, which means it’s used in more complex conversations and texts. It helps you discuss abstract ideas, express opinions clearly, and engage in discussions on a variety of topics, both personal and professional.

Expanding your English vocabulary is one of the best ways to improve your pronunciation, spelling, and confidence in English. Watch the video above to memorize the word, understand its meaning, and see example sentences in action. Discover related words to grow your vocabulary naturally. Add words to your playlist for stress-free, effective learning—anytime, anywhere! Watch, learn, repeat.