a complex matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that has multiple layers, difficulties, or intricacies. Example: "The negotiations surrounding the treaty are a complex matter that requires careful consideration from all parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I think it's a complex matter.

The Guardian - Sport

What the White House might do to genuinely "reach out" is a complex matter.

The New York Times

"Pooling data together is a complex matter," said a person with knowledge of the standards committee.

The New York Times

But keeping time in a symphony is a complex matter; not even a steady four-four pulse is straightforward.

The New Yorker

For public health authorities, choosing which vaccine to adopt is a complex matter, with scientific, economic and cultural dimensions.

The Guardian

It was a complex matter, allowed Mr. Ramone, who had family members who were killed in the Holocaust.

The New York Times

Yet what they really show is that health is a complex matter, with medical care just one contributory factor.

The Economist

"We do understand that it is politically a complex matter in Japan," he said after meeting Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa.

The New York Times

The producer Fred Silverman uses a once-classic journalistic style: he surveys academics, doctors, policy experts and ordinary folks to present a helpful overview of a complex matter.

The New York Times - Arts

This question seems like a complex matter of economics well suited to the current moment, although how Ms. Stronach will address it choreographically remains to be seen.

The New York Times - Arts

And what about public apathy to science? "It's a complex matter but we lack highly competent journalists who understand the science", he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as "a complex matter", briefly explain why it is complex to provide context for your reader.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "a complex matter" without offering any explanation. This can sound vague and uninformative. Always provide some detail about the nature of the complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex matter" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object. As Ludwig AI reports, the phrase is correct and usable in written English and functions to describe a topic or issue of multi-layered difficulty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex matter" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase used to describe topics that are intricate and multifaceted. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and usability across diverse contexts. While it's widely accepted, remember to provide context to why something is complex. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science publications, reflecting its utility in discussing intricate current events and scientific concepts. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like "a complicated situation" or "a multifaceted issue" to add nuance. Overall, use the phrase judiciously to highlight complexity without being vague.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complicated situation

Focuses on the situational aspect of the complexity.

an intricate problem

Highlights the detailed and interwoven nature of the problem.

a multifaceted issue

Emphasizes the many different aspects of the issue.

a thorny question

Suggests the matter is difficult and potentially contentious.

a challenging scenario

Highlights the difficulty and demands of the situation.

a delicate situation

Implies the matter requires careful handling.

a difficult proposition

Emphasizes the demanding nature of dealing with the matter.

a perplexing puzzle

Focuses on the confusing and difficult-to-understand nature of the matter.

a sophisticated subject

Highlights the high level of knowledge and understanding required.

a labyrinthine affair

Conveys the intricate and confusing nature of the matter.

FAQs

How can I use "a complex matter" in a sentence?

You can use "a complex matter" to describe something that involves many parts or is difficult to understand. For instance, "The negotiation process turned out to be "a complex matter", requiring expertise in various fields".

What phrases are similar to "a complex matter"?

Similar phrases include "a complicated issue", "an intricate problem", or "a multifaceted issue". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "complex matter" or "complicated matter"?

Both "complex matter" and "complicated matter" are correct, but "complex" often implies a deeper, more inherent difficulty. "Complicated" can suggest something that has been made difficult, while complex is inherently so.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a complex matter"?

It's appropriate when you want to acknowledge the difficulty and multifaceted nature of a topic. However, avoid using it as a substitute for explaining the actual complexities involved.