so as not to complicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so as not to complicate" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to express the purpose or intention behind an action. You can use it to avoid unclear or ambiguous wording, especially in sentences where multiple actions are being described. Example: I decided to break down the instructions into smaller steps, so as not to complicate the process for beginners.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The bad guys are all cartoonish so as not to complicate the film's attitude towards vigilantism.

Independent

He insisted that neither his name nor hers be printed so as not to complicate her life should she return to America, but he said he was still not yet willing to give his approval.

The New York Times

He added, however, that he would "not speak about the politically motivated nature of the process in open hearings so as not to complicate the shocking simplicity of the case" — presumably alluding to the facts of the case itself.

The New York Times

In addition, the international Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty is due for a review conference in May, and the Western powers want any new sanctions against Iran to be in place so as not to complicate any talks over the future of the treaty.

The New York Times

Mr. Alvarez's passport was held by the United States Embassy in Madrid, and his request for a visa denied, because his name, quite common in the Spanish-speaking world, matches that of someone on the U.S. terrorism watch list, according to people involved in the production, who would discuss the matter on the condition of anonymity so as not to complicate any future applications.

The New York Times

"Though John Wesley believed in the simplest form of music so as not to complicate the religious message, many of the local congregations took very enthusiastically to religious music, and so grew the choral tradition," says Russell. "So perhaps," he speculates, "nonconformist religion and industry matter more than the region".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

In his resignation statement, Sir James said that while Mr. Moore's allegations had "no substance," he was leaving the Financial Services Authority so as not to further complicate its work.

The New York Times

Let's assume that we're talking about a single individual (so as not to get overly complicated).

The Guardian - Money

The guideline has deliberately been kept to two pages long so as not to overwhelm the reader or complicate the guidance.

BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation

Later, Stacey figures out that Ryan must be her baby's father but decides not to tell him so as to not complicate his rekindled relationship with Janine, even when he is with her in the hospital as she gives birth to her daughter Lily.

Wikipedia

The model as formulated is deliberately designed to be not too complicated so as not to place severe demands on computational resources.

Chemical Engineering Research and Design

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so as not to complicate", ensure it directly relates to the action being performed and clearly explains the reason for avoiding complexity. It helps maintain clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid constructing overly passive sentences when using "so as not to complicate". It is more effective to directly state who is taking the action to avoid complication. Instead of saying "The instructions were simplified so as not to complicate the process", say "I simplified the instructions so as not to complicate the process".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so as not to complicate" functions as an adverbial phrase of purpose, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the reason for an action. Ludwig AI indicates its role is to express intent to avoid issues, specifically those related to intricacy or complexity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "so as not to complicate" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned phrase used to express the intention of avoiding complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its primary function as an adverbial phrase expressing purpose. It is commonly found in news media and scientific writing, indicating a conscious effort to maintain clarity and simplicity. When employing this phrase, ensure it clearly relates to the action performed and explains the reason for avoiding intricacy, and watch out for passive voice constructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to avoid complicating

This is a direct and concise alternative using 'avoid'.

to prevent complications

This focuses on preventing potential problems arising from complexity.

in order to simplify

This alternative focuses on the action of simplifying, to achieve the same goal.

to ensure clarity

This alternative emphasizes the act of guaranteeing or ensuring something is clear.

with the aim of clarity

This alternative aims for clear and straightforward understanding.

in an effort to clarify

This phrase stresses the intention of making something clear and understandable.

to keep it simple

This phrase emphasizes simplicity as the primary objective.

for the sake of simplicity

This alternative highlights the reason for avoiding complexity.

to facilitate understanding

This focuses on making something easier to understand, thus avoiding complexity.

to streamline the process

This is more specific to simplifying a process or procedure.

FAQs

How can I use "so as not to complicate" in a sentence?

Use "so as not to complicate" to express the intention of avoiding complexity in an action or process. For example, "I tried to explain the concept simply, so as not to complicate the issue for the students."

What are some alternatives to "so as not to complicate"?

You can use alternatives like "to avoid complicating", "in order to simplify", or "to keep it simple" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "so as not to complicate" and "in order to complicate"?

"So as not to complicate" expresses the intention to avoid complexity, while "in order to complicate" (which is less common) would suggest the intention to introduce complexity. They are antonyms.

Is it better to use "so as to simplify" instead of "so as not to complicate"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "so as to simplify" might be more direct and positive. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the avoidance of complication or the active effort to simplify.