Complication

/ˌkɒmplɪˈkeɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A circumstance that complicates something; a difficulty.
The patient's recovery was hindered by a complication arising from the surgery.
A situation or condition that makes something more complicated.
The negotiations involved several complications that delayed the agreement.
An additional factor or element that makes something more complex.
The project faced complications due to the unexpected changes in budget and scope.
A medical condition that arises as a secondary consequence of another condition.
Diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease and kidney failure.

Etymology

From Latin 'complicare', meaning 'to fold together'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

medical complication
An unexpected problem occurring in a medical context.
complicate matters
To make a situation more complex or difficult.
complicated relationship
A relationship that is not straightforward and involves many emotional difficulties.

Related Words

complexity
The state of being intricate or complicated.
entanglement
The act of entangling or being entangled, often leading to difficulties.
difficulty
The state or condition of being hard to do or deal with.

Slang Meanings

A mess or tough situation.
That situation turned into a real complication!
Drama or conflict in relationships.
Their love life is full of complications.