a complex network

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex network" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a system or arrangement that consists of many interconnected parts or elements, often in contexts like technology, biology, or social structures. Example: "The internet is a complex network of servers, routers, and cables that connects millions of users worldwide."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These included a complex network of fortified underground bunkers.

The Economist

They intersect in a complex network, creating what Markram described as the fabric of the brain.

The Guardian

Rainwater was captured by a complex network of stone basins and underground ceramic pipes.

The New Yorker

The government had already redrafted the terrorism bill to provide a complex network of safeguards.

The New York Times

After all, memories aren't just about recalling singular facts, but making connections within a complex network.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Watching it a second time, a complex network of relationships emerges.

The Economist

Workers spend grueling days managing a complex network of waterways, hoses and storage areas.

Independent

Syria and Lebanon share a complex network of political and sectarian ties that are easily inflamed.

The New York Times

The state has, for example, a complex network of nearly every form of transportation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is a complex network of series and parallel reactions.

Catalysis Today

Sentiment analysis can also be considered as a complex network.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts, use "a complex network" to illustrate interconnectedness and interdependence. For example, "The global economy operates as a complex network of financial institutions and trade agreements."

Common error

Avoid using "a complex network" as a generic descriptor. Always ensure the system genuinely possesses multiple interconnected elements and warrants the adjective 'complex'. Otherwise, opt for simpler terms like "system" or "arrangement."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex network" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object, describing a system characterized by numerous interconnected elements. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is widely accepted and utilized in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex network" is a versatile phrase used to describe systems with intricate interconnections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse fields. The phrase finds frequent application in science and news media, conveying the idea of interconnectedness. When employing this phrase, ensure that the described system genuinely warrants the adjective 'complex'. Alternatives like "an intricate web" or "a sophisticated system" may be more suitable depending on the specific context. Finally, be mindful of overusing the phrase and consider more specific descriptors when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a web of connections

Focuses on the numerous and intertwined links within the network.

an intricate web

Uses "web" to emphasize the interconnected and potentially entangled nature of the system.

a sophisticated system

Highlights the advanced and refined nature of the network.

a multifaceted structure

Focuses on the multiple layers and aspects of the network.

an elaborate scheme

Suggests a carefully planned and detailed arrangement, often with a specific purpose.

a complicated arrangement

Emphasizes the difficulty in understanding or managing the network.

a convoluted system

Highlights the winding and confusing nature of the network.

an interconnected framework

Stresses the connections and dependencies between the elements of the network.

a tangled hierarchy

Implies a complex and potentially confusing organizational structure within the network.

a labyrinthine organization

Suggests a network that is difficult to navigate or understand due to its complexity.

FAQs

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

Use "a complex network" to describe interconnected systems or arrangements. For example, "The human brain functions as "a complex network" of neurons."

What's a good alternative to "a complex network"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an intricate web", "a sophisticated system", or "an interconnected framework".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a complex network"?

It's appropriate when describing a system with many interconnected parts, where the interactions between these parts are significant and contribute to the overall behavior of the system. For instance, "The supply chain is "a complex network" of suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors."

What makes a system qualify as "a complex network" rather than just a "system"?

A "system" can be any set of interacting components. "A complex network" specifies that the system involves numerous elements with intricate interconnections, leading to emergent properties and behaviors that are not easily predictable from the individual components alone.