unexpected complications; unforeseen problems arise
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesidiom
unexpected complications arise; new problems crop up and hinder progress
formalUsed to describe a situation where new, unforeseen issues or obstacles suddenly appear, complicating the original plan or main task. The tone is usually negative, expressing frustration or trouble.
The negotiations were proceeding smoothly, but unexpectedly the other party suddenly raised new conditions, which really created unexpected complications.
This project was originally simple, but coordination issues between several departments created unforeseen problems, causing a major delay in progress.
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We planned to go on an outing this weekend, but unexpectedly the weather suddenly changed, and our plans were hit by unforeseen complications.
Solving the old problem was already difficult enough, and now unexpected complications have arisen, adding new contradictions.