further complicating the issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "further complicating the issue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to emphasize that an additional factor is making it more difficult to solve a problem or reach a resolution. For example: "The recent legal changes have further complicated the issue, making it nearly impossible to come to a satisfactory conclusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Further complicating the issue is Mr. Bloomberg's ramped-up criticism of lawmakers in recent weeks.

The New York Times

Further complicating the issue is that the Mets do not have a general manager.

The New York Times - Sports

Further complicating the issue is the fact that commenting cultures are very different on different sites – and, often, within them.

The Guardian

Further complicating the issue, many collectors simply aren't interested in -- or cannot afford to purchase -- authenticity, so cheaper replicas appeal to them.

The New York Times

Further complicating the issue is that the US never ratified Kyoto so, like China, the world's other super-polluter, it is not bound by it.

The Guardian

It has also upset evangelical Christians in Congress, who have pressured Mr. Hastert not to back down, further complicating the issue.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Further complicating the issues are the possible impact on patient and family QoL.

Clinical interventions in aging

The fact that Marvel characters crop up around the country in lottery tickets further complicates the issue for Disney.

The New York Times

Factors like money or marital discord — there were both in the Llewellyn case — further complicate the issue.

The New York Times

"The presence of foreign forces and interference in Bahrain's internal affairs is unacceptable and will further complicate the issue," Ramin Mehmanparast, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, said.

Independent

If the protests against the recent killings spread and become violent it could further complicate the issue, said Malcolm Chalmers, a professor of security policy at Kings College in London.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "further complicating the issue" to transition to a new aspect of a problem, signaling that the situation is not only complex but also becoming increasingly so.

Common error

Avoid using "further complicating the issue" in overly simple situations. It's best suited for scenarios where genuine complexity already exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "further complicating the issue" functions as a transitional phrase. Ludwig provides examples where it introduces additional information that increases the difficulty or intricacy of a situation. It sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "further complicating the issue" is a useful phrase to introduce an additional layer of difficulty to an existing situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. When employing this phrase, writers should consider the overall tone and register, and avoid overuse in overly simplistic scenarios. Alternatives include "compounding the problem" or "adding another layer of complexity", each with slightly different nuances. Remember to consider the existing level of complexity of the issue you are discussing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compounding the problem

Similar to exacerbating, but focuses on a specific problem rather than a general situation.

adding another layer of complexity

Replaces "further complicating" with a more descriptive phrase, emphasizing added complexity.

deepening the complexity

Similar to adding another layer of complexity, but with a sense of increasing depth.

introducing additional difficulties

Focuses on the difficulties introduced, rather than the complication of the issue itself.

presenting further challenges

Highlights the challenges that are arising as a result of something.

making matters even more intricate

Emphasizes the intricate nature of the situation and how it is becoming more so.

creating more obstacles

Highlights the obstacles created, rather than the general complication.

exacerbating the situation

Indicates that something is making the situation worse, not just more complicated.

introducing a new dimension of difficulty

Emphasizes the novelty of the challenge and shifts the focus to its newness.

muddying the waters

A more idiomatic expression suggesting that something is making the situation less clear.

FAQs

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

Use "further complicating the issue" to introduce an additional element that adds difficulty or complexity to an existing problem. For example: "The lack of funding is already a problem; the new regulations are "further complicating the issue"".

What are some alternatives to saying "further complicating the issue"?

You can use alternatives like "compounding the problem", "adding another layer of complexity", or "making matters even more intricate" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to use "further" before "complicating the issue"?

While "further" emphasizes that the complication is additional, it's not always necessary. You could say "complicating the issue" if the complication is the primary focus. However, ""further complicating the issue"" is generally used to build upon an existing problem.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "further complicating the issue"?

Avoid using "further complicating the issue" when the situation is already extremely complex and adding more detail might obscure the main point. In such cases, consider simplifying your language or focusing on resolving existing complications before introducing new ones.