complications ensued

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complications ensued" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where unexpected difficulties or problems arose following a particular event or action. Example: "After the initial agreement was made, complications ensued that delayed the project for several months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Complications ensued.

The New York Times - Books

Costs went up, and complications ensued.

The Guardian

His doctor predicted a three-month recovery but complications ensued and it was six months before he felt healthy again.

The New York Times

When legal complications ensued, the family retained a young attorney named Randol Schoenberg, whose father was Judge Ronald Schoenberg, of Brentwood, whose father was the composer.

The New Yorker

Complications ensued from his political alliances with the German emperors and Saxon aristocracy, and he let the achievements of his father, Bolesław I, crumble.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Complications ensue.

The New York Times

Naturally comic complications ensue.

The New York Times

Complications ensue, of course.

The New York Times - Books

The expected complications ensue.

The New York Times

Complications ensue (Maslin).

The New York Times

Unsurprisingly, complications ensue.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complications ensued", ensure the context clearly establishes the initial event or action from which the complications arose. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "complications ensued" in overly simple or informal narratives where more straightforward language would suffice. This phrase is better suited for contexts requiring a slightly elevated or formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complications ensued" functions as a narrative device, indicating that a series of problems or difficulties followed a specific event. It introduces a subsequent development in a sequence of events. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

40%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complications ensued" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that difficulties arose after a specific event. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is relatively formal and most commonly found in news and encyclopedic contexts. While not overly frequent, its precise meaning and presence in reputable sources make it a useful addition to one's vocabulary. Remember to ensure the initial event is clearly established and consider alternatives for less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficulties arose

This alternative is a more general way of saying problems started.

problems emerged

This alternative suggests issues came to light or became apparent.

further issues developed

Specifies that additional problems unfolded.

issues surfaced

This implies that the problems were previously hidden or not obvious.

unforeseen obstacles arose

Highlights that the difficulties were unexpected.

challenges presented themselves

This suggests that the difficulties required effort to overcome.

troubles began

Simple and direct way of stating difficulties started.

setbacks occurred

This focuses on the idea that progress was hindered by the issues.

unexpected snags arose

Suggests that problems or difficulties were unexpected.

mishaps happened

This refers to unfortunate events or accidents that took place.

FAQs

What does "complications ensued" mean?

The phrase "complications ensued" means that difficulties or problems arose as a consequence of a previous action, event, or situation.

What can I say instead of "complications ensued"?

You can use alternatives like "difficulties arose", "problems emerged", or "issues surfaced" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "complications ensued"?

Yes, the phrase "complications ensued" is grammatically correct and can be used to describe a situation where problems arose following a particular event or action.

How formal is the phrase "complications ensued"?

The phrase "complications ensued" is relatively formal and is often found in news reports, academic writing, and encyclopedias. It might be less suitable for very informal or casual contexts.