complicates the matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complicates the matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or issue that becomes more difficult or complex due to certain factors or actions. Example: "The new regulations complicate the matter, making it harder for businesses to comply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But he complicates the matter by issuing demonstrably false statements of his own, which, inevitably, make news.

The New Yorker

That dynamite-armed treasure hunters and climate change have since threatened other mountaintop mummy bundles complicates the matter further still.

The New Yorker

What complicates the matter, several officials said, is that the attributes some Giuliani aides consider the candidates' strengths, others point to as weaknesses.

The New York Times

Photographers in museums add an extra wrinkle: their medium complicates the matter by bringing with it its vexed history as an art and its shifting relationship to other arts.

The New York Times - Arts

Second, what complicates the matter further is that the TLU domain itself is changing partly because of the promotion of English medium instruction (EMI) at the university level by the government (Education Rebuilding Implementation Council, 2013).

Language Testing in Asia

And of course, my own desire for bigger boobs complicates the matter further.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The widespread digitization of text has complicated the matter.

The New York Times - Magazine

One of the things that complicate the matter is the hyphenated liberal-left.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Mexican War, by adding California, Arizona, and New Mexico to the American domain, complicated the matter greatly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Why, he must mean the hash-smoking incident, with his own D.U.I. to complicate the matter.

The New Yorker

The many agencies involved, including buildings, fire, planning and the Loft Board, complicated the matter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "complicates the matter", ensure that the context clearly identifies what is being made more complex. Be specific about the elements that contribute to the increased difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "complicates the matter" as a general statement without specifying how the matter is being complicated. Provide clear details to enhance understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complicates the matter" functions as a verbal phrase that introduces an element or factor that adds complexity to a situation. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and readily usable. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complicates the matter" is a versatile expression used to indicate that a situation is becoming more complex or difficult due to a specific factor. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and readily applicable in both formal and informal contexts. Examples sourced from various domains like news, science, and general knowledge sites illustrate its broad applicability. When using this phrase, it's best practice to clearly specify what is contributing to the added complexity. Alternatives such as "adds a layer of complexity" or "makes things more intricate" can be used to vary your language while maintaining the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adds a layer of complexity

This alternative emphasizes the addition of a new element that makes the situation more intricate.

makes things more intricate

This phrase highlights the resulting increase in complexity and detail.

introduces further difficulties

This option focuses on the creation of new problems or challenges.

adds to the confusion

This alternative stresses the aspect of disorientation or lack of clarity.

muddies the waters

This phrase uses a metaphor to describe how the situation becomes less clear and more opaque.

thickens the plot

This option suggests an increase in the intrigue or complexity of a narrative or situation.

creates more obstacles

This highlights the emergence of new impediments that hinder progress.

presents new challenges

This alternative focuses on the arising of new difficulties that require effort to overcome.

deepens the problem

This phrase suggests that the existing issue becomes more profound or intense.

obscures the issue

This alternative emphasizes that clarity is diminished because the issue becomes clouded.

FAQs

How can I use "complicates the matter" in a sentence?

You can use "complicates the matter" to introduce a new element or factor that makes a situation more complex. For example: "The lack of funding "complicates the matter", making it difficult to complete the project on time."

What are some alternatives to "complicates the matter"?

Alternatives include "adds complexity to the situation", "makes things more difficult", or "introduces further difficulties", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "complicates the matter" formal or informal?

"Complicates the matter" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, more precise language may be preferred. See also "adds a layer of complexity".

What's the difference between "complicates the matter" and "solves the matter"?

"Complicates the matter" implies that something is making a situation more complex or difficult, while "solves the matter" implies that something is resolving or simplifying a situation. They are opposite in meaning. See also "simplifies the situation".