a complex association

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex association" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship or connection that involves multiple factors or elements, often implying intricacy or difficulty in understanding. Example: "The study revealed a complex association between environmental factors and health outcomes, highlighting the need for further research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Change in knowledge was not associated with change in quality of life which indicates a complex association between the two which needs to be further explored.

BMC Health Services Research

A complex association has been identified between autophagy and inflammation.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

Migraine and stroke: a complex association with clinical implications.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Therefore, a complex association of different fatty acid molecules attached to a single triacylglycerol structure constitutes a vegetable oil matrix.

Chemistry Central Journal

Therefore, a complex association of different fatty acid molecules attached to a single triglycerol structure constitutes a plant oil matrix.

Chemistry Central Journal

Quantitative studies suggest a complex association, with fear seeming both to facilitate and to deter early diagnosis behaviours.

The Lancet

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

The analysis used a relatively simple approach to a probably complex association.

AIDS

DNA methylation of promoter regions is generally associated with reduced expression of the regulated genes [59], whereas DNA methylation within gene bodies has a more complex association with gene expression, varying among species and level of gene expression [29, 59 61].

Environmental Sciences Europe

"Every Curve" doesn't seek to define the relationship between hip-hop and women, a hugely complex association that exists within centuries of context mired in race and gender politics.

Huffington Post

Global DNA methylation may have a more complex association with bladder cancer than previously thought.

British Journal of Cancer

Intimate partner violence and HIV infection are linked by a very complex association, including diverse pathways.

Global Health Action

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a complex association", ensure that you provide sufficient context or explanation to clarify the nature of the relationship you are describing. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims of complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "a complex association" as a placeholder for actual analysis. Follow up with specific details about the nature of the complexity, rather than leaving it as an abstract assertion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex association" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It identifies a relationship characterized by intricacy and multiple interacting elements. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

96%

Wiki

2%

News & Media

2%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex association" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe intricate relationships, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its usage is common in scientific and academic contexts, indicating a non-linear relationship between multiple factors. When employing this phrase, ensure to provide sufficient context to unpack the nature of the complexity. Alternatives include phrases like "an intricate connection" or "a multifaceted relationship". Avoid using it as a mere placeholder; instead, elaborate on the specific elements contributing to the complexity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intricate connection

Emphasizes the detailed and interwoven nature of the relationship.

a complicated relationship

Highlights the difficulty in understanding or managing the connection.

a multifaceted relationship

Stresses the multiple aspects and dimensions of the association.

a tangled web

Implies a confusing and interconnected network of elements.

a sophisticated interplay

Focuses on the refined and intricate interactions between components.

an elaborate interaction

Highlights the detailed and carefully arranged nature of the interaction.

a nuanced correlation

Emphasizes the subtle and intricate relationship between variables.

a multifaceted interplay

Focuses on multiple aspects of the relationships and the way they affect each other

a dense network

Highlights the quantity of elements and interactions within the network.

an involved entanglement

Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty of disentangling the elements.

FAQs

How can I use "a complex association" in a sentence?

You can use "a complex association" to describe relationships that involve multiple interacting factors. For instance, "The research revealed "a complex association" between diet and mental health."

What are some alternatives to "a complex association"?

Alternatives include "an intricate connection", "a complicated relationship", or "a multifaceted relationship", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "complex association" or "complicated association"?

"Complex association" and "complicated association" are often interchangeable. However, "complex" tends to emphasize multiple interconnected elements, while "complicated" emphasizes difficulty in understanding. Choose the word that best fits the specific context.

What does it mean when a study finds "a complex association" between two variables?

It means that the relationship between the variables is not straightforward and involves multiple interacting factors or mediating variables. Further investigation is usually needed to fully understand the relationship.