a complication surfaced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complication surfaced" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where an unexpected issue or problem has arisen. Example: "During the project, a complication surfaced that required immediate attention from the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

A new complication surfaced over the weekend when Philippine military officials said that what remained of Abu Sayyaf, whose ranks now number less than 100, had splintered into three groups.

The New York Times

But potential complications surfaced yesterday, and from a person all-too familiar to T.W.A. Carl C. Icahn, the financier who owned the airline in the 1980's and early 1990's and is considered by many largely to blame for its ultimate failure, may back a competing debtor-in-possession financing, according to one executive close to the bankruptcy negotiations.

The New York Times

With time, and an increasing number of MoM arthroplasties of the hip being performed, reports of complications surfaced, including narrowing and fracture of the femoral neck, ischaemic muscle necrosis, nerve involvement and pseudotumours.

Bone and Joint Research

The complication surface sculptures of upper lemmas with adnate different silicon layers have not been discussed in detail.

Plosone

When ​18C first surfaced post-election, Turnbull tried to bat it off, but there is a complication.

The Guardian

Clinton is a complication.

The New York Times - Books

"It adds a complication".

The New York Times

Yet there was a complication.

The New York Times - Books

But there was a complication.

The New Yorker

There is, though, a complication.

The Guardian - Business

But there is a complication.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a complication surfaced" to introduce an unexpected problem or difficulty that adds complexity to a situation. This implies that the issue was not initially apparent and requires careful consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "a complication surfaced" when a simpler phrase like "a problem arose" would suffice. The phrase is most effective when the issue genuinely adds a layer of complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complication surfaced" functions as an introductory phrase, often setting the stage for a description of an unforeseen challenge or difficulty. It indicates that something unexpected has arisen, adding an element of complexity to the situation. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase usually appears in the beginning of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a complication surfaced" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase that introduces an unexpected problem adding complexity to a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It functions as an introductory element, signaling the emergence of a new challenge. While not overly common, the phrase is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, especially in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the described issue indeed introduces a non-trivial degree of complexity, and consider more straightforward alternatives like "a problem arose" for simpler situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an issue arose

This alternative is a more general way of saying a problem appeared. It lacks the implication of complexity present in "complication".

a problem emerged

Similar to "an issue arose", this phrase is less formal and directly indicates a problem becoming apparent.

a difficulty materialized

This alternative is more formal, suggesting that a difficulty has become real or concrete.

a snag developed

This phrase implies a small, unexpected problem that hinders progress.

a hitch arose

Synonymous to "a snag developed", this phrase denotes a temporary impediment.

an obstacle presented itself

This alternative suggests that a barrier has appeared, requiring effort to overcome.

a challenge surfaced

This phrase frames the problem as something that needs to be overcome, implying a more proactive approach.

a stumbling block emerged

This alternative is more idiomatic, conveying a problem that prevents progress.

an impediment arose

This is a more formal alternative that highlights something that delays or prevents progress.

a setback occurred

This phrase emphasizes the negative impact of the problem on progress or plans.

FAQs

How to use "a complication surfaced" in a sentence?

Use "a complication surfaced" to introduce an unexpected problem that adds complexity to a situation. For example: "During the investigation, "a complication surfaced" regarding the witness's testimony".

What can I say instead of "a complication surfaced"?

You can use alternatives like "an issue arose", "a problem emerged", or "a difficulty materialized" depending on the context.

Is "a complication surfaced" formal or informal?

"A complication surfaced" is generally considered neutral to formal. Simpler alternatives like "an issue arose" might be more appropriate in very informal contexts.

What's the difference between "a complication surfaced" and "a problem arose"?

"A complication surfaced" implies a problem that adds complexity, while "a problem arose" is a more general statement about a problem appearing.