lead to complications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lead to complications" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing potential negative outcomes or issues that may arise from a particular action or situation. Example: "Failing to follow the safety protocols can lead to complications during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If left untreated, acute appendicitis may lead to complications, leading to inflammatory mass, appendix abscess, or rupture, with generalized peritonitis.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

It often proves to be a lengthy, complicated and expensive process, and can lead to complications over the legal status of the babies.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Under- and oversedation can lead to complications.

Stanford University

However, these materials often lead to complications after reconstruction.

Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering in Urology

Out-of-control glucose levels can lead to complications like heart disease and stroke.

The New York Times

The blockage can lead to complications including internal bleeding, developmental problems and even death.

The Guardian

That said, unless you're all on the same page it can lead to complications.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And those treatments could lead to complications including impotence, urinary incontinence and bowel problems.

The New York Times

For many women, having a child so young can lead to complications in giving birth.

The Guardian

The condition can lead to complications that include strokes, heart problems, kidney disease, blindness and amputations.

The Washington Post

The traditional methods often lead to complications, including urethrocutaneous fistulae and strictures.

Transplantation Proceedings

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lead to complications", ensure the context clearly defines the initial action or situation that causes the negative outcomes. This helps in establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "lead to complications" without specifying the nature of the complications. Vague usage weakens the statement. Instead, provide specific examples of the potential issues that may arise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lead to complications" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a causal relationship where a specific action or situation results in negative or problematic outcomes. Ludwig highlights its use in various contexts, emphasizing its role in expressing potential adverse consequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

37%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lead to complications" is a commonly used verb phrase that indicates a causal relationship between an action or situation and negative outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts, including science, news, and academia. While the phrase is widely accepted, it's crucial to specify the nature of the complications to avoid vagueness and ensure a clear understanding of the potential risks. Alternatives such as "result in difficulties" or "cause setbacks" can be used depending on the specific context and desired emphasis. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively use "lead to complications" to convey potential negative consequences and inform readers of the risks involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

result in difficulties

Focuses more on the problematic outcome, less on the complexity.

give rise to problems

Emphasizes the creation or start of issues rather than their developed state.

cause setbacks

Highlights the hindering aspect of progress, rather than general issues.

create ramifications

Stresses the far-reaching and complex consequences that may arise.

precipitate difficulties

Highlights how difficulties arise suddenly and unexpectedly.

bring about predicaments

Suggests a situation that is difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing to deal with.

generate adversity

Adversity implies hardship or misfortune, a stronger negative connotation.

induce disruptions

Focuses on the disturbance or interruption of a normal state or process.

foster predicaments

Highlights the nurturing or encouraging of difficult situations.

engender adversities

Emphasizes the causing or giving rise to hardships and misfortunes.

FAQs

How can I use "lead to complications" in a sentence?

Use "lead to complications" to show a cause-and-effect relationship where a certain action or situation results in negative outcomes. For example: "Ignoring safety protocols can "lead to complications" during the project".

What are some alternatives to "lead to complications"?

You can use phrases such as "result in difficulties", "give rise to problems", or "cause setbacks" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "lead to complications" or "cause complications"?

Both "lead to complications" and "cause complications" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis. "Lead to complications" suggests a process or sequence of events, while "cause complications" directly attributes the complications to a specific cause.

What type of complications can "lead to complications"?

The type of complications that can "lead to complications" varies greatly depending on the context. They can include medical issues like infections or organ failure, legal problems like lawsuits or fines, or logistical issues like project delays or budget overruns.