an extra wrinkle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extra wrinkle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an additional complication or detail that adds complexity to a situation or issue. Example: "The new regulations introduced an extra wrinkle to our project timeline, making it more challenging to meet our deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"It's an extra wrinkle".

The New York Times - Science

There is an extra wrinkle at J. Crew, too.

The New York Times

That really adds an extra wrinkle to your face".

The New York Times

He's thinking with an extra wrinkle in his brain".

The New Yorker

This silly conceit gives the plot an extra wrinkle to be smoothed out when the sentimental payload arrives and carries John and Beverly to Cloud Nine.

The New York Times

But even if Mr. Romney wins in the House, there is an extra wrinkle: The vice president would be chosen by the Senate, which may remain in Democratic hands.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Although those conflicts eventually affect the outcome of the interrogation, the scene still seems an unnecessary extra wrinkle.

The New York Times

Your former coaches have a few extra wrinkles, and your school has a few more scuffs, and your gym has a few more banners in it.

Huffington Post

So, I expect James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender to gain a few extra wrinkles and some gray hair ASAP or I'm going to start thinking that all of this makes no sense.

The Guardian - Film

The same old tactical games are running, with a few extra wrinkles.

BBC

Knowing that Han, Leia and (in some mysterious capacity) Luke would appear on the big screen for the first time since 1983 felt like returning home to the company of friends, albeit ones with a few extra wrinkles.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extra wrinkle" to concisely convey that a situation or plan has become more complex than initially anticipated. It's particularly effective when discussing unexpected challenges or complications.

Common error

Avoid using "an extra wrinkle" when simply describing an additional detail that doesn't necessarily complicate matters. Ensure the 'extra' element genuinely introduces complexity or difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extra wrinkle" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It adds detail, usually negative, to a situation, highlighting a new level of difficulty or complexity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the usage is considered correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extra wrinkle" is a commonly used phrase that denotes an additional layer of difficulty or complexity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. It's most frequently found in News & Media, and to a lesser extent, in Science, indicating a neutral register. When writing, ensure that the 'extra' element genuinely complicates the situation. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "an additional factor" or "a complicating element". Remember that 'an extra wrinkle' is about more than just an additional detail; it's about an added complication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an additional complexity

Replaces 'wrinkle' with 'complexity', emphasizing the complicated nature of the addition.

a further complication

Uses 'further' instead of 'extra', and 'complication' for 'wrinkle', focusing on the problematic aspect of the addition.

an added layer of difficulty

Emphasizes the difficulty introduced by the extra element, using 'layer' as a metaphor.

an additional challenge

Highlights the challenging aspect of the added element.

a complicating factor

Focuses on the fact that the addition makes things more complex.

a supplementary issue

Indicates an additional problem or point to consider.

an unforeseen element

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the added component.

an unexpected twist

Highlights the surprising and complicating aspect of the new development.

a new dimension

Suggests that the addition brings a different aspect or perspective.

a secondary problem

Replaces the metaphor with an explicit reference to the presence of additional difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "an extra wrinkle" in a sentence?

You can use "an extra wrinkle" to describe an additional complication or detail that adds complexity to a situation or issue. For example: "The new regulations introduced "an extra wrinkle" to our project timeline, making it more challenging to meet our deadlines."

What can I say instead of "an extra wrinkle"?

You can use alternatives like "an additional complexity", "a further complication", or "an added layer of difficulty" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "an extra wrinkle" in formal writing?

While "an extra wrinkle" is widely understood, it may be more suitable for neutral or less formal contexts. In highly formal writing, consider alternatives like "an additional factor" or "a complicating element".

What's the difference between "an extra wrinkle" and "a complication"?

"An extra wrinkle" implies an additional layer of complexity on top of existing ones. "A complication" is a more general term for something that makes a situation more difficult, without necessarily being additional.