complicate the issue further

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complicate the issue further" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation or problem that is becoming more complex or difficult to understand. Example: "Introducing new regulations may complicate the issue further, making it harder for businesses to comply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Medical privacy and employment rules complicate the issue further.

The New York Times - Sports

To complicate the issue further, some individuals and disability organizations reject the notion of disability as the primary marker of personhood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To complicate the issue further, each contested access site along the river seems to accentuate a deepening culture clash between "passive use" enthusiasts like kayakers and the more traditional outboard-motor fans.

The New York Times

This would complicate the issue further, and therefore, it seems unlikely that nano-Se could have a direct AO effect in the biological systems.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The diagnosis of clinically significant labral tears in dysplastic hips remains a challenge, and to complicate the issue further, labral abnormalities are commonly also found in asymptomatic individuals.

Acta Orthopaedica

During the formation of various PGs, TXs, LTs, LXs, resolvins, and protectins there is a critical role for free radicals, and therefore use of antioxidants along with PUFAs may complicate the issue further.

Critical Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Complicating the issue further, though, are a number of concurrent cases.

The Guardian - Sport

What complicates the issue further is that the two main Hutu rebel groups actually engaged in fighting are not involved directly in the peace talks.

The New York Times

Complicating the issue further, he said, some of the protection money came from funds donated by Christians abroad to help their fellow Christians in Iraq.

The New York Times

Complicating the issue further, an amendment to EU data protection regulation means companies – and probably governments – can in future be fined a percentage of their turnover if they suffer a data breach.

The Guardian

"Parallel parking complicates the issue further - you're aiming for a defined space".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complicate the issue further", ensure that the context has already established some level of existing complication. This phrase signals an additional layer or factor that increases the complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "complicate the issue further" when describing a straightforward situation. This phrase is most effective when layered upon an already complex scenario, not used to introduce initial complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complicate the issue further" functions as a modifier, adding to the description of a situation or problem. It suggests that something is making an already complex situation even more difficult or intricate. Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complicate the issue further" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that serves to indicate an increase in the complexity of an existing situation. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific discussions. While the phrase itself is neutral, it is most effective when the existing complexity has already been established. Related phrases include "further complicate matters" and "add complexity to the problem".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

further complicate matters

Focuses on the 'matters' at hand becoming more complex.

add complexity to the problem

Emphasizes the addition of complexity rather than direct complication.

make the situation even more intricate

Highlights the intricate nature of the situation being amplified.

deepen the complexity of the matter

Implies a growing or intensifying complexity.

exacerbate the problem further

Suggests the problem is made worse, not just more complex.

add another layer of complexity

Focuses on adding a new level of complexity.

muddy the waters even more

Uses a metaphorical expression of making things less clear.

heighten the intricacy

Underscores an increase in the level of detail and complication.

aggravate the already complex issue

Highlights worsening an issue that is already complex.

infuse greater convolution into the matter

Formal and emphasizes the convoluted nature being introduced.

FAQs

How can I use "complicate the issue further" in a sentence?

Use "complicate the issue further" to introduce new elements that add to an existing problem or complexity. For example, "Introducing new regulations may "complicate the issue further", making it harder for businesses to comply."

What phrases are similar to "complicate the issue further"?

Similar phrases include "further complicate matters", "add complexity to the problem", or "make the situation even more intricate".

Is it grammatically correct to say "complicate the issue further"?

Yes, "complicate the issue further" is grammatically correct and widely used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate an increase in complexity.

What's the difference between "complicate the issue" and "complicate the issue further"?

"Complicate the issue" means to make something complex, while ""complicate the issue further"" suggests that the issue is already complex, and something is adding to that existing complexity.