a complex relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that has many different and intricate aspects, often involving emotional, social, or psychological factors. Example: "Their friendship has evolved into a complex relationship, filled with both support and tension."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. Bush has long said the United States and China have "a complex relationship," and that complexity was on full display this week.

The New York Times

We have a complex relationship.

The New Yorker

Hanningfield has a complex relationship with money.

The Guardian

"It's a complex relationship," he said.

The New York Times

Sarkozy had a complex relationship with Gaddafi.

The Guardian

Jones has always had a complex relationship with America.

The Guardian - Music

Hyder has a complex relationship with the police.

The Guardian

Not surprisingly, Faisal had a complex relationship with the regime.

The New York Times - Magazine

Melanocytic nevi and melanoma: unraveling a complex relationship.

Yale University

"There's a complex relationship between information and behaviour change.

Independent

Venezuela and the United States have a complex relationship.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a complex relationship", clearly identify the entities involved and the specific factors that contribute to its complexity. Provide concrete examples to illustrate the nuances of the relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "a complex relationship" as a vague descriptor. Instead, delve into the specific elements that make the relationship intricate, such as conflicting interests, historical context, or emotional dependencies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex relationship" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement of a verb. It describes the nature of the connection between two or more entities, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex relationship" is a versatile phrase used to describe intricate connections between entities. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to provide specific details about the factors contributing to the complexity, avoiding vague generalizations. Related phrases include "a multifaceted relationship" and "an intricate connection", offering alternative ways to express similar ideas. Remember to avoid oversimplification and provide concrete examples to illustrate the relationship's nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multifaceted relationship

Emphasizes the many different aspects and dimensions of the relationship.

an intricate connection

Highlights the detailed and interwoven nature of the link.

a complicated dynamic

Focuses on the interplay and interactions within the relationship, suggesting potential challenges.

a convoluted interaction

Implies that the interactions are difficult to follow or understand, suggesting a high degree of complexity.

a knotty bond

Suggests that the connection is tangled and potentially difficult to resolve.

a challenging partnership

Highlights the difficulties and demands involved in maintaining the relationship.

a sophisticated interplay

Suggests a high level of subtlety and nuance in the interaction.

a delicate balance

Emphasizes the need for careful management to maintain the relationship.

a sensitive association

Highlights the potential for vulnerability and the need for careful handling.

an interdependent alliance

Focuses on the mutual reliance and dependence between the parties involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complex relationship" to describe intricate dynamics between people, entities, or concepts. For example, "The two countries have "a complex relationship" rooted in historical conflicts and economic interdependence".

What's the difference between "a complex relationship" and "a complicated relationship"?

While similar, ""a complex relationship"" often implies multiple interconnected factors contributing to its intricacy. "A complicated relationship" may simply suggest difficulty or confusion.

What can I say instead of "a complex relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "a multifaceted relationship", "an intricate connection", or "a complicated dynamic" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a complex relationship"?

Not necessarily. While complexity can suggest challenges, it can also indicate depth, nuance, and a rich history. The connotation depends on the context and the specific factors contributing to the relationship's complexity.