What is another word for clouds the issue?
Pronunciation: [klˈa͡ʊdz ðɪ ˈɪʃuː] (IPA) 
There are various synonyms for the phrase "clouds the issue," which refers to the act of making a discussion or situation more confusing or complicated than it needs to be. One synonym is "confuses the matter," which implies that the person or group involved in the discussion has made it difficult to understand. "Obfuscates the issue" is another synonym that suggests someone intentionally makes things unclear or misleading. Alternatively, someone might "muddle the debate," suggesting that they have caused confusion and uncertainty. Another similar phrase is "muddies the waters," which can describe someone who intentionally or unintentionally complicates a situation or topic.
