French Conversation · Level 80
60 words
French word
épineux
Pronunciation
IPA/epinø/
Meaning
- adjectivetricky
Example
Il a un dossier épineux à gérer.
He has a tricky case to deal with.
More examples
Le responsable doit résoudre un problème épineux cette semaine.
The person in charge must resolve a thorny problem this week.
Core concept
A thorny bundle that catches on each attempt to handle it.
Common phrases
problème épineux
thorny problem
dossier épineux
thorny case
sujet épineux
thorny topic
Similar words
difficile: Something difficult that cannot be easily handled or resolved.
délicat: Something delicate that calls for tact and careful handling.
sensible: Something sensitive that can easily trigger emotional reactions or disputes.
Definition in French
Qui cause des complications ou des conflits et demande de la prudence pour être traité.
Word origin
Épineux comes from Old French épine, from Latin spina, with the suffix -eux forming the literal sense "thorny" before the figurative sense "troublesome or delicate" developed.
Usage tips
- In its figurative sense, épineux commonly modifies a question, dossier, or situation rather than a person.