Translation guide
The English word "complications" can refer to medical issues, factors that make a situation harder, or a state of complexity. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To refer to secondary diseases or conditions that arise during an illness or after a procedure.
To describe problems, obstacles, or additional issues that complicate a plan or situation.
A general word for 'problem' or 'issue'. Often used in the plural 問題点 (problems/issues) to mean complications.
Several complications arose with the plan.
Literally 'complex factors'. Used when emphasizing the intricacy of the situation.
There are many complications in this matter.
A casual way to say 'complicated things' or 'troublesome matters'. Used in informal speech.
Some complications came up and I couldn't go on the trip.
To refer to the quality of being intricate, involved, or difficult to understand.
The noun form of 'complex', meaning complexity or complicatedness.
I'm amazed at the complications of this problem.
Refers to complexity that is troublesome or bothersome, often with administrative or procedural nuances.
The complications of the procedure are a problem.
The adjective 複雑 (ふくざつ) means 'complex', but using it as a noun to mean 'complications' is unnatural. Use 複雑さ for the state of being complicated, or 問題 for specific issues.
Both mean a secondary disease, but 合併症 is the everyday medical term, while 併発症 is more technical and less common. Stick with 合併症 in most contexts.
The surgery went well, but there were complications.
We ran into some complications with the project.
You need to watch out for complications of diabetes.
Pneumonia is a complication of influenza.
Unexpected complications occurred.