it complicates matters for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it complicates matters for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation that becomes more difficult or complex for someone due to certain circumstances. Example: "The new regulations are likely to complicate matters for small business owners trying to comply with the law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I just wonder whether it complicates matters for the U.S. companies, because fuel economy is not high on the agenda of the U.S. consumer," Mr. Austin said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But water, and the travel required to cross it, complicate matters for an organization overseeing statewide competition for 95 schools.

The New York Times - Sports

But in his governing style, he looks an awful lot like a moderate Democrat, which complicates matters for Mr. Thompson, who as it happens is a moderate Democrat.

The New York Times

The revelation of another journalistic lapse at News Corporation — though minor compared with the phone hacking scandal in Britain — further complicates matters for the leadership at News Corporation as it prepares for its annual shareholder meeting next Friday.

The New York Times

What also complicates matters for Hollinger is that the intentions of the Barclays are not clear.

The New York Times

That complicates matters for the many richer clubs who admire him, Bayern Munich among them reportedly.

The Guardian - Sport

But the AFL-CIO throwing water on the plan complicates matters for Democrats who rely on labor support.

The Washington Post

Friday's verdict complicates matters for Prime Minister Enrico Letta's left-right coalition, whose survival depends on Mr. Berlusconi's center-right People of Freedom party.

The New York Times

The official recall petition complicates matters for those leading the more serious recall effort against Walker.

Huffington Post

This also complicates matters for UFC 200 in July, which was planned to be the biggest event in UFC history.

Los Angeles Times

This fact really complicates matters for anyone who wants to write down Clinton's loss as simple racism.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it complicates matters for", ensure the subject causing the complication is clearly identified in the sentence. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it complicates matters for" without specifying who or what is being affected. Always clearly state the subject for whom matters are becoming more complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it complicates matters for" functions as a connector, linking a preceding cause or situation to its effect of making things more difficult for a specific person or group. Ludwig AI indicates it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it complicates matters for" is a useful and grammatically sound way to express that something makes a situation more difficult for someone. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly identify who or what is being affected. While there are various alternatives like "it makes things more difficult for" or "it presents challenges for", "it complicates matters for" offers a balanced and widely understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it makes things more difficult for

Replaces "complicates matters" with a simpler phrase, focusing on the increased difficulty.

it makes it harder for

A more informal way of saying something is more difficult.

it adds complexity for

Highlights the increase in complexity as a result of something.

it presents challenges for

Highlights the challenges that arise as a result of something.

it creates obstacles for

Emphasizes the creation of barriers or impediments.

it poses a problem for

Focuses on the problematic nature of the situation.

it impedes progress for

Suggests that progress is being slowed down or prevented.

it exacerbates the situation for

Indicates that something makes an already bad situation worse.

it intensifies difficulties for

Focuses on making existing difficulties stronger.

it further hinders

Implies that something is already being hindered, and this new factor adds to it.

FAQs

How can I use "it complicates matters for" in a sentence?

Use "it complicates matters for" to indicate that a particular situation or action makes things more difficult or complex for someone. For instance, "The new regulations "it complicates matters for" small businesses".

What's a more formal way to say "it complicates matters for"?

A more formal alternative could be "it presents challenges for" or "it introduces complexities for". These phrases maintain a professional tone while conveying the same meaning.

Are there any situations where "it complicates matters for" might not be appropriate?

While generally acceptable, "it complicates matters for" might be too mild in situations requiring stronger language. Consider using phrases like "it poses a significant problem for" or "it severely hinders" when emphasizing a more serious impact.

What are some alternatives to "it complicates matters for" that still convey a similar meaning?

You can use alternatives like "it makes things more difficult for", "it adds complexity for", or "it presents obstacles for" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. All of them are explained in the related phrases section.