problematische

In German, problematisch means "problematic" or "problem-raising." The form problematische is the attributive feminine singular inflection of the adjective, used before feminine nouns, for example die problematische Situation or eine problematische Frage. The base form problematisch is used in other positions, such as predicative constructions: Die Situation ist problematisch.

Origin and formation: problematisch is built from the noun Problem with the suffix -atisch, a common German way of turning nouns into adjectives meaning "-atic" or "-ish." The word entered standard German in the 18th or 19th century and is now widely used across domains, including media, science, and everyday speech.

Usage and nuance: problematisch denotes that something causes difficulties, raises questions, or may entail risk. It is often evaluative rather than purely descriptive and can carry normative or cautionary tones. In journalism and policy discourse, "problematische" topics such as problematische Inhalte (problematic content), problematische Rechtslage (problematic legal situation), and problematische Entwicklungen (problematic developments) appear frequently. The term can be softened to less strong alternatives like fragwürdig or heikel, depending on context, or intensified with modifiers such as deutlich problematisch or äußerst problematisch.

Examples:

- Die problematische Frage bleibt offen.

- Die rechtliche Lage ist problematisch.

- Diese Regelung hat problematische Auswirkungen.

See also: problem (concept), problematisch, problematic (English).