Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
in the face of complications
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "in the face of complications" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is dealing with difficulties or challenges. Example: "She remained calm and focused in the face of complications during the project."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Alternative expressions(13)
despite the challenges
despite the difficulties
in spite of the obstacles
notwithstanding the challenges
even with the setbacks
regardless of the issues
undeterred by the problems
despite all odds
in the face of constraints
in the face of difficulties
in the face of impediments
in the face of setbacks
in the face of shortcomings
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
Signature said the play centered on a middle-aged woman determined to become pregnant in the face of complications, including a domineering mother.
News & Media
"Laying an Egg," about a middle-aged woman determined to become pregnant in the face of complications, had been scheduled to open in February at the new Signature Center, a three-theater complex near the company's current home on West 42nd Street.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
No supporting literature is found describing the tolerances of clinicians for staying a course of therapy in the face of mounting complications.
Science
Lack of formal education further increases this sense of helplessness in the face of obstetrical complications [ 100, 101].
Science
Pregnant women's limited autonomy for making effective decisions in the face of childbirth complications appeared difficult for the care providers to understand.
Science
Obstacles to analysis include inference in the face of multiple comparisons, complications arising from correlations among the SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), choice of their genetic parametrization and missing data.
Academia
We did not observe any significant differences in myocardial infarction and stent thrombosis outcomes with short term dual antiplatelet therapy as compared with 12 month therapy, in the face of reduced bleeding complications.
Science
They also need to recognize that patient adherence is not simply predicated on patients being better educated, but also learning how to use that knowledge in the face of other life complications.
These are encouraging results in the face of the elevated numbers of complications CCI patients do develop.
Science
And also how he can sustain, in the face of multiplying frustrations and complications, his dogged, impish, upbeat attitude.
News & Media
Many cancer patients suffer from a high symptom burden, which can remain for months and years after the initial cancer therapy or can occur again in the face of long-term therapy or complications in the disease trajectory.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "in the face of complications" to highlight resilience and determination when describing how someone or something perseveres despite facing significant challenges. This phrase adds emphasis to the strength required to overcome obstacles.
Common error
While "in the face of complications" is effective, avoid using it too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "despite the difficulties" or "notwithstanding the challenges" to maintain reader engagement.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "in the face of complications" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the circumstances under which an action occurs or a state exists. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates dealing with difficulties.
Frequent in
News & Media
30%
Science
30%
Academia
13%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Formal & Business
4%
Encyclopedias
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "in the face of complications" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to highlight resilience and determination when encountering difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. It frequently appears in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. For those seeking alternative expressions, phrases like "despite the difficulties" or "notwithstanding the challenges" offer similar meanings. However, it’s essential to use this phrase judiciously to avoid redundancy in writing. In essence, mastering the use of "in the face of complications" empowers writers to effectively convey strength and perseverance in their narratives.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
despite the difficulties
Focuses on the presence of challenges that do not deter action.
in spite of the obstacles
Highlights overcoming specific barriers.
notwithstanding the challenges
Emphasizes that the challenges are not considered a hindrance.
even with the setbacks
Specifies that progress continues despite temporary regressions.
regardless of the issues
Suggests a decision to proceed irrespective of any problems.
undeterred by the problems
Implies a strong resolve not to be stopped by difficulties.
unaffected by the difficulties
Indicates a lack of impact from the complications.
despite all odds
Highlights the improbability of success given the challenges.
withstanding the setbacks
Focuses on enduring through difficult periods.
overcoming the hurdles
Emphasizes the action of successfully dealing with each obstacle.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "in the face of complications"?
Alternatives include "despite the difficulties", "in spite of the obstacles", or "notwithstanding the challenges", each offering a slightly different emphasis on overcoming adversity.
Is it more formal to say "in the face of complications" or "despite complications"?
"In the face of complications" is generally perceived as more formal and emphatic than the simpler phrase "despite complications". The former highlights the act of confronting challenges directly.
When is it appropriate to use "in the face of complications" in writing?
Use "in the face of complications" when you want to emphasize the act of confronting and managing significant challenges, especially when highlighting resilience or determination. It's suitable for situations where overcoming difficulties is a key aspect of the narrative.
What are some common words that follow "in the face of complications"?
Common words following "in the face of complications" include verbs like "persisted", "succeeded", "continued", or nouns describing positive outcomes such as "success", "resolution", or "progress".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested