C1noun 2K

Complication

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌkɒmplɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌkɑːmplɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/

Meaning of Complication

a thing that makes a situation more complicated or difficult

In simple words: A problem or difficulty that makes something harder.

Complication in a sentence

• The surgeon explained that there could be a complication during the procedure.
• Her decision to move abroad added a complication to their relationship.
• The new law introduced complications in the existing regulations.
• The child's behavior added a complication to the already stressful situation.
• In the plot, the complication ultimately leads to a dramatic twist in the story.

How to use Complication

Use 'complication' when discussing medical issues or difficulties in plans. Avoid in casual conversations unless talking about serious matters.

Grammar pattern

complication + object

Memory hint

Think of 'completing a mission' where a 'complication' is an unexpected problem.

Related words

Collocations with Complication

• major
• added
• additional
• add
• cause
• avoid
• arise
• ensue
• occur
• acute
• dangerous
• life-threatening
• develop
• have
• suffer
• arise
• develop
• occur
• rate
• complication with
• complication from
• complication of
• a risk of complications
• complications related to something

Synonyms for Complication

• difficulty
• problem
• issue
• obstacle
• setback

Opposites of Complication

• solution
• simplicity
• resolution

Common mistakes with Complication

• Confused with 'complicating' which implies making something difficult.
• Using 'complication' in contexts unrelated to problems, like 'easy' situations.

Frequently asked questions about Complication

What does Complication mean?

A problem or difficulty that makes something harder.

What is the definition of Complication?

a thing that makes a situation more complicated or difficult

How do you use Complication in a sentence?

The surgeon explained that there could be a complication during the procedure.

Can you give another example of Complication?

Her decision to move abroad added a complication to their relationship.

What are synonyms for Complication?

Common alternatives include difficulty, problem, issue, obstacle, setback.

What is the opposite of Complication?

Opposite meanings include solution, simplicity, resolution.

What words go with Complication?

It commonly pairs with major, added, additional, add, cause, avoid, arise, ensue, occur, acute, dangerous, life-threatening, develop, have, suffer, arise, develop, occur, rate, complication with, complication from, complication of, a risk of complications, complications related to something.

What are common mistakes when using Complication?

Confused with 'complicating' which implies making something difficult. Using 'complication' in contexts unrelated to problems, like 'easy' situations.

How do you pronounce Complication?

US: /["/ˌkɑːmplɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/, UK: /["/ˌkɒmplɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Complication?

Use 'complication' when discussing medical issues or difficulties in plans. Avoid in casual conversations unless talking about serious matters.

What CEFR level is Complication?

"Complication" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.