thorny
word
Definition
Covered with thorns or sharp points. Also used to describe a tricky or difficult situation or problem.
Usage & Nuances
'Thorny' is both literal (plants with thorns) and figurative (difficult issues, e.g., 'thorny problem'). Common with 'problem', 'issue', or 'question'. Fairly formal and often used in written or careful speech.
Spanish: espinoso - difícil (problema)Portuguese (BR): espinhoso - complicado (questão)Portuguese (PT): espinhoso - complicado (questão)Chinese (Simplified): 多刺的 - 棘手的Chinese (Traditional): 多刺的 - 棘手的Hindi: कांटेदार - कठिन (समस्या)Arabic: شوكي - معقد (مشكلة)
Example Sentences
She avoided the thorny branches.
basic
The rose bush is very thorny.
basic
It is a thorny problem to solve.
basic
Negotiating that contract turned out to be pretty thorny.
natural
That’s a thorny issue, so let’s discuss it carefully.
natural
Sometimes, family matters can get really thorny.
natural