a complex notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex notion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ideas or concepts that are intricate or multifaceted in nature. Example: "The theory of relativity is a complex notion that challenges our understanding of time and space."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But personal responsibility is a complex notion, especially when it comes to health.

The New York Times - Health

Most significantly of all, The Magic Whip (a complex notion, embodying both treat and threat, if the lyrics of the faintly sinister Ice Cream Man are anything to go by) was not hatched as some grand reunification statement, but pieced together by Coxon and Blur's heyday producer Stephen Street in fits and starts in 2014.

The Guardian - Music

Resilience is a complex notion and to give just one example, suppose someone who loses his or her home in a fire or earthquake may, even if the loss were completely covered by insurance, let's say, chose to leave the community and live somewhere else.

The New York Times

Bacon has a complex notion of grammar.

SEP

It's a complex notion, trust, but the execution in this early stage is relatively simple.

TechCrunch

Introduction: Precarity is a complex notion including several components, and its definition is still debated.

Annals of Intensive Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

More-modern psychodynamic theories have moved away from the idea of explaining and treating neurosis on the basis of a defect in a single psychological system and have instead adopted a more complex notion of multiple causes, including emotional, psychosexual, social, cultural, and existential ones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

JRR Tolkien referred to his invention of The Lord of the Rings as the creation of a 'true myth' - and to accept the need we have for myth as well as science is to allow a more complex notion of truth than mere correspondence to empirical facts.

The Guardian

What is wanted is a more complex notion which Quine calls perceptual similarity.

SEP

For instance, Heat, one thing, is mean molecular kinetic energy, a seemingly complex notion.

SEP

Thus, a more complex notion of the lived experience of transnationalism emerges.

Comparative Migration Studies

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a complex notion", provide context and break it down into smaller, more manageable parts for easier understanding. Use examples to illustrate its various facets and implications.

Common error

Avoid reducing "a complex notion" to a simplistic explanation. Acknowledge its intricacies and multiple layers to prevent misinterpretations and superficial comprehension.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex notion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides many examples to show how it used across different source types.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex notion" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to introduce intricate or multifaceted concepts. Ludwig's analysis shows that while versatile, it finds frequent usage in science, news media, and encyclopedic content. Related phrases include "an intricate concept" and "a multifaceted idea". When using the phrase, it's best to provide ample context and avoid oversimplification to maintain clarity and precision. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and utility in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intricate concept

Replaces "complex" with "intricate", emphasizing the detailed and elaborate nature of the concept.

a multifaceted idea

Substitutes "notion" with "idea" and "complex" with "multifaceted", highlighting the many aspects of the idea.

a sophisticated concept

Replaces "complex" with "sophisticated", suggesting a higher level of refinement or understanding.

a complicated idea

Uses "complicated" instead of "complex", indicating difficulty in understanding or dealing with the idea.

a convoluted concept

Replaces "complex" with "convoluted", implying that the concept is intricate and difficult to follow.

a subtle concept

Substitutes "complex" with "subtle", emphasizing the nuanced and delicate nature of the concept.

a deep idea

Replaces "complex" with "deep", highlighting the profound and far-reaching implications of the idea.

a thorny issue

Changes the focus to the problematic nature of the concept, using "thorny" to emphasize its challenging aspects.

a challenging idea

Replaces "complex" with "challenging", emphasizing the difficulty it presents.

a problematic concept

Highlights the potentially troublesome or questionable nature of the concept.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a complex notion" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a complex notion", introduce the concept clearly and provide sufficient context. You might say, "Quantum physics presents "a complex notion" that requires extensive study to fully grasp."

What are some alternatives to "a complex notion"?

Alternatives include "an intricate concept", "a multifaceted idea", or "a sophisticated concept". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "complex idea" or "complex notion"?

Both "complex idea" and "complex notion" are correct and largely interchangeable. "Notion" might suggest a more abstract or theoretical concept, while "idea" is more general.

How do I explain "a complex notion" without oversimplifying it?

Begin by acknowledging its complexity. Break the concept into manageable components, provide examples, and address potential misunderstandings. Use precise language to convey the nuances without losing your audience.