on a completely different complexion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a completely different complexion" is not correct in standard English usage.
It may be intended to convey a change in perspective or situation, but the word "complexion" is typically used to refer to the color or appearance of skin, making it an unusual choice in this context. Example: "The discussion took on a completely different complexion when new evidence was presented."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But the game took on a completely different complexion after Fijian Matawalu was sin-binned for elbowing Healy off the ball.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But if we had come in at half-time at 1-1, ween we scored from a corner, then it puts a completely different complexion on the game.

The Guardian - Sport

Dundee made an immediate return to the top flight this season but the second tier will have a completely different complexion next term, with Rangers entering as League One champions and the capital clubs being demoted.

BBC

Once upon a time, Karma Kid took on an entirely different complexion as heavy dubstep producer, 'Titich'.

The Guardian - Music

But Leviev is on a completely different level.

The New York Times - Magazine

But this was on a completely different scale.

The Guardian

But now it's taken on a completely different meaning.

The Guardian

His style was summed up by the Dublin Evening Herald thus: "He seems to be addressing a completely different audience in a completely different programme on a completely different planet".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

You could even go on a completely different website.

WikiHow

Perhaps you depend on him– a completely different thing.

Independent

On offense it was a completely different story.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in a situation, consider using more common and clearer phrases such as "in a different light" or "from a different angle" instead of "on a completely different complexion".

Common error

Avoid using "complexion" to describe abstract situations. "Complexion" typically refers to skin tone or the general appearance of the face. Using it metaphorically can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a completely different complexion" attempts to function as an idiomatic expression to indicate a significant change in the state or appearance of something. However, its usage is non-standard, as highlighted by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a completely different complexion" is an unconventional way to express a significant change in a situation or perspective. As Ludwig AI points out, it is not standard English and can lead to confusion. While it appears sporadically in News & Media, it's advisable to opt for clearer and more common alternatives such as "in a different light", "from a different angle", or "with a different perspective" to ensure effective communication. Using these alternatives will enhance clarity and avoid potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a different light

This alternative focuses on a change in understanding or perspective.

from a different angle

This suggests viewing a situation from an alternative perspective.

with a different perspective

This highlights the introduction of a new viewpoint.

in a completely different way

This focuses on a change in method or approach.

under a new guise

This suggests a change in appearance or presentation.

taking on a new form

This emphasizes a change in structure or shape.

presenting a different face

This indicates a change in outward appearance or impression.

with a changed aspect

This highlights a shift in the overall appearance or nature.

exhibiting a transformation

This suggests a significant and noticeable change.

adopting a different approach

Focuses on changing the methodology or strategy used.

FAQs

What does "on a completely different complexion" mean?

The phrase is an unconventional way to suggest that a situation has changed significantly or is now viewed in a new light. However, it's not standard English and can be confusing.

How can I use "in a different light" instead of "on a completely different complexion"?

You can use "in a different light" to describe how new information or circumstances have changed the way you understand something. For example, "The problem was viewed in a different light after the new data was released."

What are some alternatives to "on a completely different complexion"?

Better alternatives include "from a different angle", "with a different perspective", or "in a completely different way", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "on a completely different complexion"?

No, the phrase "on a completely different complexion" is not grammatically correct in standard English. It's better to use more conventional phrases to express a change in perspective or situation.