put a kink

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'put a kink' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express the idea of introducing a complication or difficult issue into a situation. For example, "As we reached the end of the negotiations, the other party suddenly put a kink in the agreement, and we had to start again from the beginning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

While summer of 2016 has lacked the giant big hitters of a year ago, and European football championships put a kink in the release schedule in June, the UK's distributors and exhibitors have reason for satisfaction.

The Guardian - Film

But the recession put a kink in big real-estate deals.

The New York Times

The savings and loan crisis of the late 1980s put a kink in that plan.

The New York Times

One thing, though, right off the spec sheet that might put a kink in Dell's tablet plans: weight.

The New York Times

The investor reception may put a kink in other potential large floats, especially that of its rival, Freescale.

The New York Times

A new study has put a kink in the widely held conventional wisdom, concluding that not much changed in the second half of the 1990's.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

It also improved the Mystics' playoff chances, while putting a kink in the Liberty's drive to gain home-court advantage through the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The New York Times - Sports

This time Mr. Wilson's partner in bad-boy crime is Matt Dillon, providing yeoman straight-man support as Dupree's best friend, Carl, whose new marriage to Molly Kate Hudsonn) puts a kink in the men's friendship.

The New York Times

The find puts a kink in climate models and hints that nitric acid from human pollution might be tweaking the cloud cover.

Science Magazine

It's kind of like putting a kink in a hose.

Huffington Post

I would travel down streets that looked appealing to me, not worrying if I was putting a kink in someone else's agenda.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "put a kink", consider the context to ensure the imagery of a bend or twist accurately reflects the nature of the disruption you're describing. It's best suited for situations where a plan or process is unexpectedly altered.

Common error

Avoid using "put a kink" in highly formal or academic papers. While acceptable in news and general writing, it can sound too informal. Opt for more precise language like "complicate" or "impede" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put a kink" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a clause to describe an action that introduces a problem or complication. As indicated by Ludwig, it is a commonly used expression to denote the introduction of difficulties.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put a kink" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to describe the introduction of a complication or disruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, especially in news and media. While not overly formal, its usage is generally acceptable, though writers should consider more precise language for highly formal settings. When you use "put a kink", you're highlighting something that negatively alters a plan or process and introduces unexpected challenges. Related phrases, such as "complicate matters" or "throw a wrench in the works", offer similar ways to express this idea. It's a useful expression for general communication but should be used thoughtfully in more formal environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

introduce a problem

Highlights the initiation of a difficulty.

throw a wrench in the works

Emphasizes a sudden disruption or obstacle.

complicate the situation

Highlights the act of making a scenario more intricate.

complicate matters

Focuses on making something more complex or difficult.

cause a setback

Highlights a reversal or delay in progress.

pose a challenge

Emphasizes the introduction of a difficult task or obstacle.

disrupt the flow

Emphasizes the interruption of a smooth process.

create an obstacle

Focuses on the generation of something that blocks progress.

impede development

Focuses on preventing growth or advancement.

hinder progress

Highlights the slowing down or stopping of advancement.

FAQs

How can I use "put a kink" in a sentence?

You can use "put a kink" to describe something that introduces a problem or complication into a plan or process. For example, "The sudden price increase "put a kink" in our budget."

What are some alternatives to "put a kink"?

Alternatives to "put a kink" include phrases like "complicate matters", "throw a wrench in the works", or "hinder progress". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "put a kink in things"?

Yes, "put a kink in things" is a correct and common variation of the phrase. It simply broadens the scope to encompass multiple aspects or elements that are affected by the disruption.

What's the difference between "put a kink" and "work out the kinks"?

"Put a kink" means to introduce a problem, while "work out the kinks" means to resolve existing problems or imperfections. They are opposite in meaning.