Inklingo

How to Say "tricky" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “tricky” is “complicado” — use 'complicado' when 'tricky' describes a situation that is complex, difficult to understand, or has many interconnected parts, often implying a degree of trouble..

English → Spanish

complicado

/kom-pli-KAH-doh//kompliˈkaðo/

adjectiveB1
Use 'complicado' when 'tricky' describes a situation that is complex, difficult to understand, or has many interconnected parts, often implying a degree of trouble.
A small, nervous character cautiously attempting to walk across a very narrow, wobbly plank bridge suspended high over a deep canyon.

Examples

La negociación del contrato resultó ser más complicada de lo que esperábamos.

The contract negotiation turned out to be trickier than we expected.

Su relación es un poco complicada; tienen muchos altibajos.

Their relationship is a bit troubled (or complicated); they have many ups and downs.

Es una persona complicada, nunca sabes lo que quiere.

He is a difficult person; you never know what he wants.

Ser vs. Estar for Temporary States

While 'ser' (Eres complicado) describes someone's inherent difficult personality, 'estar' (Estás complicado) can describe a temporary state of being overwhelmed or in a tricky situation right now.

difícil

dee-FEE-seel (Remember the stress is on the second 'i'!)/diˈfi.sil/

adjectiveB1
Choose 'difícil' when 'tricky' refers to something challenging, hard to do, or causing problems, especially when describing a person's difficult nature or a task's complexity.
A stern, richly dressed storybook character sits in a large chair, aggressively pointing at a tiny, insignificant detail on a surface, indicating being demanding. Another character looks stressed.

Examples

Este problema de matemáticas es muy difícil, necesito ayuda.

This math problem is very tricky; I need help.

Es un niño muy difícil en la escuela; siempre quiere salirse con la suya.

He is a very difficult child at school; he always wants to get his own way.

La negociación fue difícil porque ninguna parte quería ceder.

The negotiation was tricky because neither side wanted to give in.

Describing People

When describing a permanent personality trait, you use the verb ser: 'Ella es difícil' (She is a difficult person).

delicado

deh-lee-KAH-doh/deliˈkaðo/

adjectiveB1
Use 'delicado' when 'tricky' implies a sensitive or precarious situation that requires careful handling to avoid negative consequences, often related to health or emotional states.
A small figure cautiously walking on a very narrow, winding ice path suspended high above a dark chasm, representing a tricky or sensitive situation.

Examples

Hablar sobre el despido fue un asunto delicado.

Talking about the layoff was a tricky matter.

Mi tío está delicado de salud desde la operación.

My uncle has been in poor health since the operation.

Tuvimos que manejar el tema con mucho tacto porque era una cuestión delicada.

We had to handle the topic with great care because it was a sensitive issue.

Describing Health

When talking about someone's health, use the verb 'estar' (to be temporarily) with 'delicado' to mean they are currently ill or frail: 'Ella está delicada'.

Using 'Ser' for Temporary Health

Mistake: “Mi abuelo es delicado de salud.”

Correction: Mi abuelo está delicado de salud. ('Ser' implies a permanent trait; 'estar' implies a current state.)

difíciles

/dee-FEE-see-less//diˈfiθiles/

adjectiveA1
Use the plural form 'difíciles' when 'tricky' refers to multiple items, tasks, or details that are complex and challenging to manage or complete.
Three brightly colored, complexly shaped puzzle pieces scattered on a flat surface. They clearly do not fit together, symbolizing multiple difficult tasks or problems.

Examples

Los detalles técnicos del proyecto son difíciles de explicar.

The technical details of the project are tricky to explain.

Los exámenes de historia siempre son muy difíciles.

History exams are always very difficult.

Estas decisiones son difíciles de tomar, pero necesarias.

These decisions are hard to make, but necessary.

Hemos superado momentos difíciles en el pasado.

We have overcome difficult moments in the past.

Plural Form

This word is the plural form of the adjective 'difícil'. It is used to describe two or more things or people that are hard or complex.

Agreement is Key

Like all Spanish adjectives, 'difíciles' must match the noun it describes in number. If you are talking about 'one difficult test' (un examen difícil), you drop the '-es'.

The Accent Mark

Notice the accent mark on the 'i' (difíciles). This ensures the stress falls on the correct syllable. Don't leave it out!

Forgetting Plural Agreement

Mistake: “Los temas es difícil.”

Correction: Los temas son difíciles. (The topics are difficult.) Remember the adjective and the verb must agree with the plural subject.

Misplacing the Accent

Mistake: “dificiles”

Correction: difíciles. The accent is necessary for correct pronunciation.

Complicado vs. Difícil

Learners often confuse 'complicado' and 'difícil'. While both mean 'difficult' or 'tricky', 'complicado' emphasizes intricacy and multiple parts, whereas 'difícil' focuses more on the challenge or effort required. Think of 'complicado' as 'involved' and 'difícil' as 'hard'.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.