a complex structure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex structure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has multiple interconnected parts or is intricate in design or organization. Example: "The architect presented a model of a complex structure that would serve as the new city hall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it is a complex structure.

The New York Times

It's a complex structure of interests," Lipsky explains.

The Guardian

Brockes, J. P. Amphibian limb regeneration: rebuilding a complex structure.

Nature

"The shoulder is a complex structure," Carroll said.

The New York Times - Sports

People think it's easy and throwaway but it's got such a complex structure to it.

The Guardian

First, the tax system is complex, containing many different taxes, each often having a complex structure.

Britannica

Thermo Electron, of Waltham, Mass., operates a complex structure of businesses in various industries.

The New York Times

Second, the model is tested on a complex structure.

Mechanics Research Communications

The brain is the characteristic of a complex structure.

European Neuropsychopharmacology

Her recent work tends to have a complex structure and an unpolished exterior, often placing two separate dances onstage simultaneously.

The New Yorker

Music with a complex structure and rhythm won out over repetitious, more predictable music, Dr. Hetland said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts, use "a complex structure" to convey the intricate relationships and multiple components involved. For example, "The political system is a complex structure with many interacting branches."

Common error

Avoid using "a complex structure" as a generic descriptor. Instead, provide details about the specific elements contributing to the complexity. For instance, instead of saying "The business model is a complex structure", specify which aspects (e.g., revenue streams, partnerships, logistics) make it complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex structure" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or direct object. It describes the quality or nature of something. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex structure" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to describe something with multiple interconnected parts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure you provide enough context to specify the elements contributing to the complexity. Alternatives include "an intricate design" and "a sophisticated system". The phrase is widely understood and appropriate for various communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intricate design

Focuses on the detailed and elaborate nature of the design, implying complexity through artistry.

a sophisticated system

Emphasizes the advanced and refined qualities of the system, suggesting complexity through its level of development.

an elaborate arrangement

Highlights the careful and detailed planning involved in the arrangement, implying complexity through intentional design.

a multifaceted organization

Stresses the multiple aspects and layers of the organization, suggesting complexity through its diverse components.

a convoluted system

Conveys a sense of something overly complicated and difficult to understand, implying complexity with a negative connotation.

an involved configuration

Emphasizes the interconnected and dependent nature of the parts, implying complexity through the high degree of interaction.

a composite assembly

Stresses that something is made of different elements.

a multi-layered architecture

Focuses on the many layers of elements and their organization.

a tricky setup

Highlights something is difficult, delicate and has many elements.

a tangled web

Implies a confusing and interconnected network, suggesting complexity through its chaotic nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complex structure" to describe anything with many interconnected parts. For example, "The human brain is "a complex structure" that scientists are still trying to fully understand."

What are some alternatives to "a complex structure"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an intricate design", "a sophisticated system", or "an elaborate arrangement".

Is it better to say "a complicated structure" or "a complex structure"?

While both are acceptable, "a complex structure" often implies intricate interconnectedness and multiple layers, whereas "a complicated structure" might simply mean difficult to understand. Consider the nuance you want to convey.

What makes something "a complex structure"?

Something is considered "a complex structure" when it consists of numerous interconnected components, intricate relationships, and is often challenging to fully comprehend due to its many layers and dependencies.