a complex discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a conversation or dialogue that involves intricate or multifaceted topics, often requiring careful thought or analysis. Example: "The conference featured a complex discussion on the implications of artificial intelligence in modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

This is a complex discussion, and it's not really being had in the UK right now.

Independent

The gradually imposing dementia, rare for this disease, was making it increasingly difficult to have a complex discussion.

The Washington Post

This battle is just one facet of a complex discussion surrounding the removal of ancient artefacts from countries which are often politically or economically vulnerable to exploitation.

The Guardian - Tech

An American studies class, a core class taught by both an English and social studies teacher, engaged in a complex discussion about pre-Civil War Southern life.

The New York Times

I read in later editions what there was to read about the abdication of this king, which was decorously reported - there was a learned article in the Observer on previous kings who had (none of them, until now, voluntarily) renounced the throne, and a complex discussion of precisely when, and how, the King ceased to be king in the dominions.

The Guardian

Reichenbach has a complex discussion of visualization.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"It's a very complex discussion," said Neil Wilmshurst, a nuclear power expert and a vice president of the Electric Power Research Institute, a nonprofit utility consortium.

The New York Times

After a few introductory remarks from New York's chancellor of education -- who called Smith a "a man in charge, a man who cares, a man who believes in children and students" -- the most bankable movie star in Hollywood launched into a speech about his own personal version of science and a rather complex discussion of patterns and decision making.

Huffington Post

If we were talking about e-mail, as Your Honor's opinion in Ackerman sought to analogize to property, I think we would have a more complex discussion about it.

The Washington Post

Eriugena returns in Book Three to give a very complex discussion of the meaning of 'ex nihilo' in the concept of creatio ex nihilo, which makes use of some of these modes of being and non-being, and, in general, these modes should be borne in mind when interpreting Eriugena's more overt metaphysical statements.

SEP

And this is because the idea of basic income, although seemingly simple sounding, is a very complex discussion in which to engage.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a complex discussion", ensure that the surrounding context provides specific details about the nature of the complexity. Avoid vague claims without elaboration.

Common error

Avoid using "a complex discussion" when the topic is relatively straightforward. Ensure the subject matter genuinely warrants the adjective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex discussion" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "discussion". As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a conversation or dialogue involving intricate or multifaceted topics. The examples on Ludwig highlight diverse applications of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex discussion" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe conversations involving intricate or multifaceted topics. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts such as news, science and academia. Analysis reveals the phrase has a neutral to professional register and is frequently found in News & Media. While alternatives like "an intricate debate" or "a complicated deliberation" exist, "a complex discussion" is effective in conveying the presence of intricate and potentially challenging subject matter, as long as the context warrants such complexity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intricate debate

Replaces "discussion" with "debate" implying a more formal or argumentative exchange; "intricate" adds a layer of detail.

a complicated deliberation

Uses "deliberation" instead of "discussion", suggesting a more thoughtful and prolonged consideration; "complicated" maintains the sense of complexity.

a sophisticated conversation

Substitutes "discussion" with "conversation" indicating a less formal setting, while "sophisticated" highlights the intellectual level.

a multifaceted dialogue

"Dialogue" replaces "discussion", emphasizing the two-way exchange, and "multifaceted" underscores the many aspects involved.

a nuanced exchange

Focuses on the subtle details of the exchange, emphasizing the delicacy and precision of the conversation, with "nuanced" highlighting its complexity.

an elaborate discourse

"Discourse" is a more formal term for discussion, suggesting a structured and detailed conversation; "elaborate" enhances the sense of complexity.

a thorny negotiation

Implies that the discussion involves sensitive issues and potential disagreement, using "thorny" to highlight the challenging nature of the negotiation.

a convoluted argument

Replaces "discussion" with "argument", suggesting a disagreement or debate, while "convoluted" adds emphasis on the intricate and confusing nature.

a lengthy consideration

Emphasizes the duration and thoughtfulness of the discussion, highlighting the amount of time and attention given to the topic.

a puzzling inquiry

Uses "inquiry" to suggest an investigation or questioning process, with "puzzling" emphasizing the difficulty in understanding or resolving the issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complex discussion" to describe a conversation involving intricate and multifaceted topics, such as "The board meeting involved "a complex discussion" about the company's future strategy".

What are some alternatives to "a complex discussion"?

Alternatives include "an intricate debate", "a complicated deliberation", or "a sophisticated conversation", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a complex discussion"?

It is appropriate when the conversation involves multiple layers, requires careful analysis, and isn't easily understood. Ensure the complexity is evident from the context.

What makes a discussion "complex"?

A discussion becomes "complex" when it involves numerous interconnected factors, requires specialized knowledge, or deals with abstract concepts that are difficult to grasp.