avoid complications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "avoid complications" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to steer clear of situations that may lead to difficulties or problems. Example: "To ensure a smooth project execution, it's best to avoid complications by sticking to the original plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are two ways that a doctor can avoid complications.

The New York Times - Science

Early diagnosis is critical in order to effectively treat GPA and avoid complications.

Britannica

Reduction of intraoperative bleeding is desirable to improve intraoperative visibility and to avoid complications.

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Evaluation of the blood supply to gastric conduits is critically important to avoid complications after esophagectomy.

Journal of the American College of Surgeons

Principles of assay design to avoid complications from such effects are discussed.

Analytical Biochemistry

To evaluate a protocol designed to avoid complications during tympanostomy tube insertion by residents.

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Controlling blood sugar, or glucose, by using insulin or other drugs helps diabetics avoid complications like cardiovascular problems and blindness.

The New York Times

And because they are devoid of any synthetic materials or a scaffolding, they avoid complications from inflammatory reactions.

The New York Times - Health

Patients' motivation to do well helps them become ambulatory sooner and avoid complications such as pneumonia or clotting problems".

The New York Times

To avoid complications of prosthetic vascular grafts, engineered vascular constructs have been investigated as an alternative for vascular reconstruction.

Biomaterials

Type 1 diabetes requires multiple daily decisions about self-management to maintain glycaemic control and avoid complications.

The Lancet

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about procedures or protocols, use "avoid complications" to clearly indicate preventative measures. For example, "Proper sterilization techniques are crucial to avoid complications during surgery."

Common error

While "avoid complications" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. In such contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "prevent problems" or "stay out of trouble".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "avoid complications" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It typically follows a statement of action or a recommendation, indicating the reason or goal behind that action, in order to prevent negative outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "avoid complications" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to express the purpose of preventing negative outcomes across various contexts, most notably in scientific and news-related content. While highly versatile, it is more suited to formal or technical writing. When aiming for a more casual tone, consider alternatives like "prevent problems" or "stay out of trouble". Its consistent use across authoritative sources underscores its reliability, making it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prevent difficulties

Emphasizes stopping problems before they start, focusing on challenges or obstacles.

mitigate risks

Focuses on reducing the potential negative impact of uncertain events or hazards.

circumvent issues

Suggests finding a way around problems that already exist or are anticipated.

avert problems

Stresses the idea of turning away or preventing issues from occurring.

forestall setbacks

Implies taking action to prevent delays or impediments to progress.

preclude problems

Highlights the act of making problems impossible or unlikely to happen.

dodge predicaments

Suggests skillfully avoiding difficult or unpleasant situations.

head off troubles

Focuses on stopping problems early, as if intercepting them before they escalate.

sidestep snags

Indicates avoiding minor difficulties or unexpected obstacles.

steer clear of problems

Suggests maintaining a safe distance from potential sources of trouble.

FAQs

How can I use "avoid complications" in a sentence?

You can use "avoid complications" to describe actions taken to prevent negative outcomes. For example, "The doctor recommended physical therapy to "avoid complications" after the surgery."

What are some alternative phrases for "avoid complications"?

Alternatives include "prevent difficulties", "mitigate risks", or "avert problems" depending on the context.

Is "avoid complications" suitable for all types of writing?

While grammatically correct, "avoid complications" is more suited for formal or technical writing. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "prevent problems" may be more appropriate.

What kind of complications can "avoid complications" refer to?

The phrase can refer to medical, technical, legal, or any other type of negative outcome that can be prevented through proactive measures. For example: "To "avoid complications" and disputes down the line".