add another layer of complexity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'add another layer of complexity' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a situation or problem that becomes more complex when additional factors are taken into account. For example, "Introducing new government regulations to this system will add another layer of complexity to our already complicated financial process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

"That's going to add another layer of complexity for Asian policy makers".

The New York Times

That threatens to add another layer of complexity and uncertainty for individuals and families that had counted on those institutions.

The New York Times

The raw garlic and sharp herbs add another layer of complexity for the same amount of initial prep.

The New York Times - Food

But they add another layer of complexity to banks' risk management.Basel 2.5 came into force on December 31st in most European and major world financial jurisdictions.

The Economist

The well-manoeuvred cast of minor characters – from schlepping husbands to anorexic single mothers – add another layer of complexity to an already rich feast.

Independent

I didn't know any of these additional characters well enough to feel that their voices were especially vivid or memorable, but I think they add another layer of complexity to the novel to the extent that they interrupt its flow.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

The complex nature of the biology of cancer adds another layer of complexity for risk assessment.

Carcinogenesis

The feathers added another layer of complexity for us in the build.

The Guardian

"The discovery adds another layer of complexity not previously associated with that organ".

The New York Times - Science

In Ms. Nyirahabiyambere's case, her immigration status adds another layer of complexity.

The New York Times

Tension surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions has added another layer of complexity to Turkey's relationship with the United States and Europe.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "add another layer of complexity", ensure that it's clear what the existing layers are and how the new layer interacts with them. This provides context and prevents the phrase from becoming a vague complaint.

Common error

Avoid using "add another layer of complexity" when describing simple additions or changes. Reserve it for situations where the new element truly introduces significant complications or interconnectedness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add another layer of complexity" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of making something more complicated or intricate. It indicates that a new element or factor is being introduced that increases the level of difficulty or sophistication. As Ludwig AI explained, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "add another layer of complexity" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe the act of making something more intricate or complicated. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's usable across various contexts, though most prominently in News & Media and Science, indicating a neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure that the context clearly explains what the existing layers are and how the new layer affects them. Alternatives include "complicate matters further" and "introduce further intricacies", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complicate matters further

Changes the core metaphor, focusing on making things more complicated.

introduce further intricacies

Replaces "complexity" with "intricacies", emphasizing detailed and elaborate aspects.

make the situation more convoluted

Uses "convoluted" to suggest a twisted and complex situation.

deepen the entanglement

Employs a metaphor of entanglement, highlighting interconnected and complicated elements.

add fuel to the fire

Idiomatic expression meaning to worsen an already bad situation, related to increased complexity.

muddy the waters

This idiom suggests making something less clear, which indirectly relates to adding complexity.

compound the problem

Focuses on the aspect of exacerbating an existing issue by adding to it.

heighten the difficulty

Shifts the emphasis to increasing the level of difficulty rather than pure complexity.

create further entanglements

Highlights the creation of intertwined and confusing connections.

make more thorny

Uses a thorny metaphor meaning causing distress, difficulty, or trouble

FAQs

How can I use "add another layer of complexity" in a sentence?

You can use "add another layer of complexity" to describe a situation or problem that becomes more complicated with the introduction of new elements. For example: "The new regulations "add another layer of complexity" to the existing system."

What are some alternatives to "add another layer of complexity"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "complicate matters further", "introduce further intricacies", or "make the situation more convoluted".

Is it always negative to "add another layer of complexity"?

While often used in a negative context to describe unwanted complications, "add another layer of complexity" can also be neutral or even positive. For example, in art or storytelling, it can refer to enriching depth and nuance.

What's the difference between "add another layer of complexity" and "add more detail"?

"Add more detail" simply means to provide additional information. "Add another layer of complexity", on the other hand, suggests that the addition creates a more intricate or difficult-to-understand system.