be a serious complication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a serious complication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential issues or challenges that may arise in a situation, particularly in medical, technical, or logistical contexts. Example: "The patient's condition may be stable, but the presence of an infection could be a serious complication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Conclusions: OHSS continues to be a serious complication of assisted reproductive therapy (ART), with no universally agreed upon best method of prevention.

Harvard University

Damaging the AV node would be a serious complication that could affect Rex's long-term quality of life and require a pacemaker, which have grim success rates for dogs his age.

Cornell University

It is unclear how long his recovery will take, but the tear in the L.C.L. is considered by doctors to be a serious complication that could extend the time frame for his return well past the start of the 2013 season.

The New York Times - Sports

Pin-site infection has been reported to be a serious complication with prolonged external fixation.

Strategies in Trauma and Limb Reconstruction

In some patients, an infection called dacryocystitis can be a serious complication of a blocked tear duct.

Duke University

A BBF is thought to be a serious complication associated with a high morbidity rate, including high rates of sepsis and pulmonary disorders, and often results in death [16].

Surgical Case Reports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Oral chronic GVHD (cGVHD) is a serious complication of alloSCT.

Stanford University

Respiratory failure (RF) is a serious complication following heart surgery.

Chest

Introduction: Osteopenia is a serious complication of anorexia nervosa (AN).

Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology

Neuropathic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes.

The American Journal of Medicine

Neurologic motor deficit is a serious complication of spinal surgery.

The Spine Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a serious complication", ensure the context clearly establishes what action or condition is leading to the complication. This improves clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be a serious complication" for minor inconveniences or easily resolvable issues. Reserve it for situations where the potential negative outcomes are substantial and significantly impact the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a serious complication" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying the subject as a significant problem. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts like medical procedures and chronic diseases.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

Academia

25%

News & Media

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be a serious complication" is a grammatically sound and readily understood expression used to underscore potential significant problems. Ludwig AI indicates that it's appropriate in various contexts, particularly in science, academia, and news. The phrase serves to highlight concerns and is used to emphasize the importance of caution and preventative measures. Though less common, its formality makes it suitable for technical and professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

present a major challenge

Focuses on the difficulty posed rather than the issue's nature.

constitute a grave concern

Emphasizes the worry or anxiety caused by the issue.

pose a significant risk

Highlights the potential danger involved.

create a major setback

Focuses on the hindering effect of the problem.

result in severe repercussions

Stresses the negative consequences that follow.

develop into a critical issue

Highlights the evolution and importance of the problem.

turn into a major obstacle

Highlights the problem as something that blocks progress.

become a severe impediment

Stresses the hindering effect of the problem.

end up a major drawback

Highlights the disadvantage caused by the problem.

grow into a tremendous burden

Emphasizes the heaviness and difficulty caused by the problem.

FAQs

How can I use "be a serious complication" in a sentence?

Use "be a serious complication" to describe potential negative outcomes that significantly impact a situation. For example, "Infection can "be a serious complication" after surgery."

What are some alternatives to saying "be a serious complication"?

You can use alternatives like "present a major challenge", "pose a significant risk", or "constitute a grave concern" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "be a serious complication" and "be a minor issue"?

"Be a serious complication" suggests a potentially significant negative impact, while "be a minor issue" indicates a problem that is easily resolved and has minimal consequences.

Is it appropriate to use "be a serious complication" in formal writing?

Yes, "be a serious complication" is suitable for formal writing, especially in medical, technical, or academic contexts where precise and clear communication about potential problems is crucial.