becomes complicated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becomes complicated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or process that is starting to involve more complexity or difficulty. Example: "Initially, the project seemed straightforward, but as we delved deeper, it becomes complicated with unforeseen challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's where it becomes complicated.

The New Yorker

This is where the matter becomes complicated.

The New York Times - Sports

When you're pregnant, eating becomes complicated.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is where the diagnosis becomes complicated.

The New Yorker

Generosity isn't received, and then sympathy becomes complicated.

The Guardian - Books

But this is where a beautifully simple idea becomes complicated.

The Guardian - Opinion

Also, it becomes complicated because it's hard to maintain a stable group.

The New York Times

But the problem is that not every drug is the same, so it becomes complicated.

The Guardian - Film

The pressures of his life increase; his financial situation becomes complicated.

The New Yorker

So one more aspect of life, once simple, becomes complicated -- sometimes in unanticipated ways.

The New York Times

Which is where eating bacon and pouring wine in yoga class, as Mr. Romanelli has done, becomes complicated.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "becomes complicated", consider specifying the reason for the increasing complexity. This adds clarity and provides more context to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "becomes complicated" when simpler terms like "becomes difficult" or "becomes confusing" would suffice. Reserve it for situations with genuine layers of complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becomes complicated" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes a transformation or change in state, indicating that a subject is transitioning into a more complex or intricate condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "becomes complicated" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a shift towards increased complexity. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and formal settings. While alternatives like "grows complex" or "turns intricate" exist, "becomes complicated" often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting potential difficulties. When using this phrase, consider specifying why something is becoming complicated to provide clarity. Be mindful of the register, but it is generally acceptable in most forms of communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grows complex

Focuses on the gradual increase in complexity.

turns intricate

Emphasizes the detailed and elaborate nature of the resulting complexity.

evolves into complexity

Highlights the transformation from a simpler state to a complex one.

develops complexities

Stresses the gradual appearance and growth of complicated aspects.

morphs into a labyrinth

Uses a metaphorical image of a maze to suggest confusion and difficulty.

takes a convoluted turn

Indicates a twist or change that leads to a complicated situation.

escalates in difficulty

Highlights the increasing level of difficulty.

presents difficulties

Shifts the focus to the challenges that arise as a result of the increased complexity.

introduces challenges

Highlights the emergence of new obstacles due to growing complexity.

becomes problematic

Suggests that the situation is not only complicated, but also causes problems.

FAQs

How can I use "becomes complicated" in a sentence?

Use "becomes complicated" to describe a process, situation, or relationship that is growing increasingly complex or difficult to understand. For example: "The legal process "becomes complicated" when multiple jurisdictions are involved."

What are some alternatives to "becomes complicated"?

You can use alternatives like "grows complex", "turns intricate", or "evolves into complexity depending on the context.

Is it better to say "becomes complicated" or "is complicated"?

"Becomes complicated" describes a change over time, indicating something is evolving into complexity. "Is complicated" describes something that is currently complex. The better choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the process of becoming complex or the state of being complex.

What's the difference between "becomes complicated" and "becomes complex"?

While similar, "becomes complicated" often implies a negative connotation, suggesting difficulty or problems. "Becomes complex" is more neutral, simply indicating an increase in the number of interacting parts or elements without necessarily implying difficulty. Consider the context when choosing between the two.