a complication unfolds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complication unfolds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where unexpected difficulties or challenges arise, often in a narrative or storytelling context. Example: "As the investigation progressed, a complication unfolds that changes everything we thought we knew about the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its simple narrative of romantic complication unfolds gracefully and easily.

The New York Times

However, further complication unfolds as industries are continuously evolving to meet rapid global demand and practice; hence defining set of competencies that can accurately map attributes outlined by industry with the aim of addressing "skill-gap" will continue to be a challenging endeavour for higher education sector.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Instead of providing narrative satisfaction to readers who crave it, the plot of "Anna Karenina" is an unfolding complication.

The New Yorker

Finally, a map unfolds on the screen.

The New York Times - Books

Whereupon a story unfolds.

The Guardian - Music

This tendency generates many 'ties' as a game unfolds.

EPJ Data Science

A conspiracy unfolds.

Vice

Clinton is a complication.

The New York Times - Books

"It adds a complication".

The New York Times

There is, though, a complication.

The Guardian - Business

But there is a complication.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a complication unfolds" to introduce an unexpected problem or challenge in a narrative or analysis, creating anticipation for how the situation will evolve.

Common error

Avoid using "a complication unfolds" for minor, everyday issues. This phrase is best suited for situations with significant or unexpected consequences, not trivial inconveniences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complication unfolds" functions as a sentence fragment or clause intended to introduce a problem or challenge that is developing. Given the confirmation provided by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complication unfolds" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an emerging problem or challenge. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, the phrase currently lacks real-world examples in the provided data, resulting in a "Missing" frequency rating. Alternative phrases like "a problem arises" or "an issue develops" can be used depending on the context. The phrase suits formal and neutral registers and is best used to create suspense or set the stage for future narrative developments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A problem arises

Replaces "complication" with a more general term for an issue.

An issue develops

Uses "issue" as a substitute for "complication", focusing on the development of the problem.

Difficulties emerge

Highlights the emergence of challenging circumstances.

Unexpected issues arise

Adds emphasis on unexpectedness of the arising issues.

A setback occurs

Emphasizes the occurrence of an event that delays progress.

A hurdle presents itself

Focuses on an obstacle appearing.

Challenges unfold

Highlights the unfolding of general challenges.

New obstacles appear

Highlights the obstacles appearing in a situation.

A snag develops

Uses a more informal term, "snag", for a minor complication.

Further intricacies emerge

Highlights the intricacies that are emerging in a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a complication unfolds" in a sentence?

You can use "a complication unfolds" to introduce an unexpected problem or challenge within a narrative. For example: "As the investigation progressed, "a complication unfolds" that changes everything we thought we knew about the case."

What phrases are similar to "a complication unfolds"?

Alternatives to "a complication unfolds" include phrases like "a problem arises", "an issue develops", or "difficulties emerge" depending on the specific context.

Is "a complication unfolds" formal or informal?

"A complication unfolds" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's more commonly used in writing or storytelling where you're setting up a plot or describing an evolving situation.

What kind of situations call for the use of "a complication unfolds"?

Use "a complication unfolds" when you want to emphasize the gradual and unexpected nature of a problem. It's especially effective when the unfolding complication significantly alters the course of events or adds a layer of complexity.