a string of complications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a string of complications" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of interconnected problems or difficulties that arise in a situation. Example: "The project faced a string of complications, including budget overruns and staffing shortages, which delayed its completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The pressure test issue is only one of a string of complications involving the state's new auto inspection system.

The New York Times

After a string of complications, the King pardons the rebels and blesses Ellen's marriage to her true love, Malcolm.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Another complication is a string of federal court rulings over the last decade that make it harder to justify drawing districts that are based on race or have tortured shapes -- common practices in New York.

The New York Times

Comic actor Leslie Nielsen, star of a string of madcap spoof movies including Airplane! and The Naked Gun, died of complications from pneumonia in Florida on Sunday, his spokesman said.

The Guardian

It has suffered a string of setbacks.

The Economist

A string of Louisiana archetypes followed.

The Economist

He gives you a string of examples.

The New Yorker

ITX made a string of unprofitable acquisitions.

The Economist

He let loose a string of expletives.

The New York Times

This leads to a string of questions.

Independent

Think of a string of pearls.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a string of complications", ensure the complications are genuinely linked or sequential, not just a collection of unrelated issues.

Common error

Avoid using "a string of complications" too frequently in your writing; vary your language with synonyms like "series of difficulties" or "chain of problems" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a string of complications" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It describes a series or sequence of problems, setbacks, or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms this through its analysis of various sources.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a string of complications" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a series of interconnected problems. Ludwig AI indicates its usage is correct and clear, though not exceedingly common. It's most frequently found in news and media, science, and wiki contexts. Remember to use this phrase when highlighting a sequence of related issues and consider alternative expressions like "a series of difficulties" to avoid repetition in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of difficulties

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the problems.

a chain of problems

Highlights the interconnectedness of the issues.

a sequence of setbacks

Focuses on the hindering effect of the problems.

a litany of woes

Emphasizes the burdensome and lamentable nature of the complications.

a succession of troubles

Highlights the consecutive nature of the problems.

a series of unfortunate events

Highlights bad luck associated to complications.

a cascade of issues

Emphasizes how one issue leads to another.

a plague of problems

Emphasizes the negative impact of the complications.

a horde of difficulties

Emphasizes the multitude of the complications.

a multitude of obstacles

Highlights number and the hindering aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "a string of complications" in a sentence?

You can use "a string of complications" to describe a situation marked by a series of interconnected problems. For instance, "The project encountered a string of complications, leading to significant delays".

What are some alternatives to "a string of complications"?

Alternatives include "a series of difficulties", "a chain of problems", or "a succession of setbacks", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a string of complication" instead of "a string of complications"?

No, it's incorrect. The word "complications" should be plural because "string" implies a series or sequence of multiple issues.

What's the difference between "a string of complications" and "a couple of complications"?

"A string of complications" refers to numerous and possibly interconnected issues, while "a couple of complications" indicates only two problems.