add a layer of complexity

USAGE SUMMARY

"add a layer of complexity" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to make something more intricate or difficult to understand. Example: "The new update to the software has added a layer of complexity, making it harder for users to navigate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Roasting them, I figured, would intensify their flavor and add a layer of complexity.

The New York Times

(To add a layer of complexity, Christopher Bailey themed the Burberry collection around Virginia Woolf's time-travel classic, Orlando).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To add a layer of complexity, if you are competing in a match-pointed pair event, no-trump has added appeal.

The New York Times

All it does is add a layer of complexity to what was otherwise a perfectly solid messaging app that everyone knew how to use.

The New York Times - Tech

Yes, this will add a layer of complexity, but success in China is as much about time as it is about money.

Harvard Business Review

The usual place to sort out such disputes is the courthouse, but — to add a layer of complexity — the prosecution of "People v. Damien Crooks, et al".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

It adds a layer of complexity.

The Guardian - Arts

This adds a layer of complexity to Oleanna.

The Guardian - Film

Loan documents were exchanged on a separate electronic network, adding a layer of complexity.

The Economist

What adds a layer of complexity — and volatility — is Abyei's symbolic power.

The New York Times

"If you try and implant software that limits an employee's capabilities, you're adding a layer of complexity".

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "add a layer of complexity", ensure that the added complexity serves a purpose and enhances understanding, rather than unnecessarily complicating the matter. For example, adding nuance to true crime podcasts helps create complexity and depth.

Common error

Avoid using "add a layer of complexity" when simplicity would suffice. Ask yourself if the added complexity truly enhances the subject or merely obscures it. For example, you shouldn't "add a layer of complexity" to a simple messaging app if it diminishes its usability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add a layer of complexity" functions primarily as a verb phrase that introduces the action of making something more intricate or involved. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. The examples provided showcase its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "add a layer of complexity" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of making something more intricate or nuanced. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct and widely used. It's appropriate across various registers, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. When employing this phrase, ensure that the added complexity serves a purpose and enhances understanding. Remember to avoid overcomplicating matters unnecessarily. The phrase finds its use in a variety of domains, with authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employing it to enrich their discussions. Related phrases include "increase the intricacy" or "introduce further complications" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

introduce further complications

Focuses on the complicating aspect, using a more direct and less metaphorical phrasing.

increase the intricacy

Changes the metaphor from layering to simply increasing the level of detail and complication.

make more elaborate

Emphasizes the process of adding details to enhance sophistication and complexity.

deepen the sophistication

Highlights enhancing the refinement and complexity of something.

inject additional nuance

Focuses on adding subtle distinctions that enhance complexity and understanding.

heighten the sophistication

Stresses the act of intensifying the sophisticated aspects.

magnify the convolution

Uses a stronger word to emphasize the increased complexity and difficulty.

enrich with subtleties

Focuses on enriching something with subtle details, increasing its complexity.

complexify the matter

A less common, more direct verb form of making something complex.

expand the details

Simply focuses on increasing the number of details.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "add a layer of complexity" in academic writing?

In academic writing, you can use phrases such as "increase the intricacy", "introduce further complications", or "make more elaborate" to convey the same idea with a more formal tone.

Is it better to "add a layer of complexity" or simplify?

The choice depends on the context. Sometimes, adding complexity is necessary to capture nuance, while other times, simplification is key for clarity. Consider your audience and the goal of your communication. If your audience benefits more with a reduction of intricacy, try these simplifications instead of "add a layer of complexity".

What does it mean to "add a layer of complexity"?

To "add a layer of complexity" means to make something more intricate, detailed, and often more difficult to understand. It implies introducing new elements or considerations that weren't previously present.

When is it appropriate to "add a layer of complexity"?

It's appropriate to "add a layer of complexity" when deeper understanding requires considering more factors or nuances. For example, in true crime reporting, podcasts often "add a layer of complexity" by exploring various perspectives and angles.