that complicates matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that complicates matters" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation or issue that becomes more difficult or complex due to a specific factor or event. Example: "The unexpected delay in delivery is a significant issue that complicates matters for our project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

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

The Guardian - Sport

That complicates matters and distracts attention from what we need to do, which is collaborative.

The Guardian

That complicates matters: you need to be ready for a full-fledged campaign on the operational level and have the diplomatic backing lined up as well.

The New York Times

And if it does go to court, there is one more factor that complicates matters in Cuban's favor.

TechCrunch

Customer service is much needed in payments because there's movement of money back and forth that complicates matters and raises questions from buyers and sellers, because you limit accounts, fight fraud and losses, and more.

TechCrunch

If they become incompetent with no record of their wishes then decision making falls to relatives, and that complicates matters greatly because surrogates do not carry the same weight of authority.

Critical Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

One caveat: Get the optional navigation system and you'll find a field of buttons that complicate matters, but unless you really need that kind of system, we'd recommend the more spare setup of the stock switch and dial pattern.

Forbes

Ms. Parsonnet, a psychotherapist, said that the online back channel strips away some of the parts of face-to-face communication that complicate matters: "They don't see your face turning red," she said.

The New York Times

Sometimes that approach complicates matters.

The New York Times - Tech

That really complicates matters".

The New York Times

A possible reason, diplomats said, was that the Iraqi leader was reluctant to say anything that might complicate matters for the countries that have so far protected Iraq from any harsh new United Nations resolutions on weapons inspections: France and Russia.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that complicates matters" when you want to succinctly express that a new element is making a situation more difficult to resolve or understand.

Common error

Avoid using "that complicates matters" in very simple situations where a more straightforward phrase would suffice. It's best suited for scenarios with multiple interacting elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that complicates matters" functions as a clause that introduces a new, complicating element into a previously discussed situation. Ludwig provides examples where it's used to indicate increased difficulty or complexity. This is often used to highlight a challenge or obstacle.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

21%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that complicates matters" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that indicates a situation has become more difficult or complex due to a specific factor. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and utility. While its register is generally neutral, it's best suited for scenarios where a clear explanation of increased difficulty is needed. While it appears mostly in the news and media, it can be used in science, and everyday conversation. Consider alternative phrases, such as "that makes things more difficult" or "that adds complexity to the situation", depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is a complicating factor

Directly identifies the element as complicating.

that makes things more difficult

Focuses on the increased difficulty.

that adds complexity to the situation

Highlights the addition of layers to the issue.

that poses a challenge

Emphasizes the problematic nature of the issue.

that presents an obstacle

Frames the situation as something blocking progress.

that throws a wrench in the works

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey disruption.

that further muddies the waters

Implies confusion and lack of clarity.

that compounds the issue

Indicates the layering effect on the problem.

that exacerbates the problem

Highlights the worsening of an existing issue.

that introduces a new variable

Focuses on adding another factor.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "that complicates matters" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "that presents a challenge", "that introduces a complicating factor", or "that adds complexity to the situation". These alternatives maintain a professional tone while conveying the same meaning.

What's a more casual way to say "that complicates matters"?

For more casual conversations, you might use phrases such as "that makes things harder", "that throws a wrench in the works", or "that makes it trickier".

Is "that complicates matters" always grammatically correct?

Yes, "that complicates matters" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in standard English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

When should I avoid using the phrase "that complicates matters"?

While grammatically correct, avoid using "that complicates matters" in situations where the complication is minor or easily understood. Simpler language may be more effective. Also, ensure it aligns with the tone; less formal options may suit casual contexts better, such as "that makes things harder".