things get complicated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things get complicated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation that becomes more difficult or intricate than initially expected. Example: "At first, the project seemed straightforward, but as we delved deeper, things got complicated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Then things get complicated.

The New York Times

Things get complicated.

The Washington Post

Things get complicated pretty quickly.

The New York Times

That's when things get complicated.

The New York Times

Here, however, things get complicated.

The New York Times - Arts

That's where things get complicated.

The Washington Post

Here's where things get complicated.

The New York Times

Here is where things get complicated.

The New York Times - Arts

And this is where things get complicated.

The New York Times

For night owls, however, things get complicated.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Then things got complicated.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things get complicated" when describing a turning point in a narrative or process where initial simplicity gives way to entanglement. It works effectively to signal a shift in complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "things get complicated" when a simpler phrase like "it's difficult" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily dramatic or convoluted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things get complicated" primarily functions as a statement indicating a shift towards increased complexity or difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both grammatically correct and widely used. It commonly serves to introduce a turning point in a narrative or a process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

8%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things get complicated" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a shift towards increasing complexity in a situation. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable across various contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic or scientific writing. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to signal a turning point requiring closer attention. Remember to use it judiciously to avoid over-dramatizing simple situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matters become intricate

Replaces "things" with "matters" and uses a more formal adjective, "intricate", to describe the complication.

situations turn complex

Substitutes "things" with "situations" and uses "complex" instead of "complicated", providing a slightly more formal tone.

problems arise

Focuses on the emergence of problems as the source of the complication.

difficulties ensue

Emphasizes the consequential nature of the complication, suggesting that difficulties will naturally follow.

challenges emerge

Highlights the appearance of challenges, framing the complication as something to be overcome.

the plot thickens

Uses a more idiomatic expression suggesting increasing intrigue and entanglement in a narrative context.

snags develop

Uses "snags" to refer to unexpected obstacles that cause the situation to become more complex.

a can of worms is opened

An idiomatic expression meaning that an action has created a range of new, unpleasant problems.

the situation spirals

Implies a loss of control and a rapid descent into complexity.

it all unravels

Suggests a breakdown of order, leading to complication.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "things get complicated"?

You can use alternatives such as "matters become intricate", "situations turn complex", or "problems arise" depending on the context.

Is "things get complicated" formal or informal?

The phrase "things get complicated" is generally considered neutral in formality. While widely acceptable, it's suitable for both informal and many formal contexts but could be replaced with more formal language in highly formal writing.

What does it mean when "things get complicated"?

It means that a situation, project, or relationship is becoming more difficult, intricate, or confusing than it initially seemed. It suggests an increase in complexity that may lead to challenges or problems.

Can I use "things get complicated" in academic writing?

While acceptable, consider using more precise and formal language in academic writing. Alternatives like "the situation becomes complex" or "challenges emerge" might be more appropriate. Analyze your context and consider writing guidance for best practices.