Cool MateComplication vs Obstacle
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Complication
Top 2,000 (common)C1noun
Obstacle
Top 2,000 (common)B2noun
| Complication | Obstacle | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ˌkɒmplɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˌkɑːmplɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ˈɒbstəkl//🇺🇸 //ˈɑbstəkl// |
| Meaning | A problem or difficulty that makes something harder. | Something that makes it difficult to do something. |
| Example | The surgeon explained that there could be a complication during the procedure. | He faced many obstacles during his journey to success. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Collocations | 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 | face an obstacle, overcome an obstacle, see an obstacle |
| Antonyms | solution, simplicity, resolution | advantage, help, facilitator |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'complicating' which implies making something difficult., Using 'complication' in contexts unrelated to problems, like 'easy' situations. | Confusing with 'obstacle course' which is a specific kind of challenge., Using 'obstacles' when discussing non-physical challenges like fears or emotions., Mixing it up with 'obstruction', which often has legal connotations. |
| Usage notes | Use 'complication' when discussing medical issues or difficulties in plans. Avoid in casual conversations unless talking about serious matters. | Used in contexts where something hinders progress or achievement. Typically neutral; avoid in overly casual contexts. |
Frequently asked questions: Complication vs Obstacle
What's the difference between Complication and Obstacle?
Complication: A problem or difficulty that makes something harder. Obstacle: Something that makes it difficult to do something.
Are Complication and Obstacle the same CEFR level?
Complication: C1, Obstacle: B2 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Complication and Obstacle interchangeably?
Not always. Complication and Obstacle are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.