complicated matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complicated matters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations or issues that are complex or difficult to understand or resolve. Example: "The new regulations have complicated matters for small business owners trying to comply with the law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

International tension complicated matters.

The New York Times - Arts

Language differences also complicated matters.

The New York Times

The novel's age complicated matters.

The New York Times

Frequent translation problems complicated matters even more.

The New Yorker

The stockmarket's fall has greatly complicated matters.

The Economist

The latest discoveries have further complicated matters.

The New York Times - Science

The Enron meltdown has complicated matters.

The New York Times

This roller-coaster ride, though, has complicated matters for investors.

The New York Times

Cold war politics, which heightened suspicion of foreigners, complicated matters.

The New York Times

The government's interference in the coal market complicated matters.

The Economist

The rise of multichannel television has complicated matters.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complicated matters", ensure the context clearly identifies what specific "matters" are being complicated. Providing specific examples or details will enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "complicated matters" as a substitute for specific details. Instead of saying "The project faced complicated matters", specify what those matters were, such as "The project faced logistical challenges and funding delays".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complicated matters" functions as a noun phrase typically acting as the object of a verb. As Ludwig AI correctly notes, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently encountered. It identifies subjects or issues that have become intricate or challenging.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complicated matters" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe complex or challenging situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, with a strong presence in news and media. When using this phrase, clarity is paramount; provide specific details about the matters being referenced to avoid vagueness. While "complicated matters" is generally suitable, consider more precise language for highly formal or technical writing. Remember that while Ludwig confirms the phrase is correct, it's your duty to add value with appropriate context and nuanced application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

made things more complex

Rephrases the idea using a more general term "things" and emphasizes the increase in complexity.

added to the confusion

Highlights the aspect of uncertainty and lack of clarity introduced by the matters.

exacerbated the situation

Focuses on the worsening effect the matters have on the existing circumstances.

muddied the waters

Uses a metaphor to suggest that the matters obscured clarity and made understanding difficult.

further compounded the problem

Emphasizes that the matters increased the magnitude of an already existing problem.

presented additional challenges

Highlights the difficulties that are now present, without focusing on their origin.

introduced new difficulties

Focuses on the new hardships that did not previously exist.

made the situation more intricate

Emphasizes the level of detail and complexity that the situation now possesses.

created further obstacles

Focuses on the barriers to progress that the matters have generated.

deepened the crisis

Indicates that the matters have intensified an existing crisis.

FAQs

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

You can use "complicated matters" to describe a situation that has become complex or difficult to manage. For example, "The new regulations have "complicated matters" for small businesses trying to comply with the law."

What are some alternatives to "complicated matters"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "difficult issues", "complex problems", or "intricate situations".

Is it better to say "complicated matters" or "complex issues"?

Both "complicated matters" and "complex issues" are grammatically correct, but "complex issues" might sound slightly more formal and appropriate in some professional contexts.

In what kind of writing should I use "complicated matters"?

"Complicated matters" is suitable for a variety of writing styles, from news articles to academic papers, although in very formal writing, consider more precise language to describe the specific issues.