a complicated one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complicated one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a situation, problem, or concept that is complex or difficult to understand. Example: "The issue at hand is a complicated one, requiring careful consideration and analysis before we can reach a conclusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The answer is a complicated one.

The Guardian - Tech

But it is also a complicated one.

The Washington Post

The issue is a complicated one.

The New York Times

But that story is a complicated one too.

The Economist

His relationship with the United States was a complicated one.

The New York Times

The race was a complicated one for the Republican candidate.

The New York Times

City's relationship with Aston Villa is a complicated one.

The Guardian - Sport

For many others, it was a complicated one.

The New York Times

The political equation for Mr. Bloomberg is a complicated one.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Engineering discovery is a complicated one to solve.

TechCrunch

Clouds can play a key role in climate but a complicated one.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a complicated one" when you want to acknowledge the complexity of a topic without going into specific details immediately. It sets the stage for a more detailed explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "a complicated one" as a substitute for detailed analysis. Always follow up with specifics to justify why the subject is complex, otherwise your statement may sound vague or dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complicated one" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object, replacing a noun to avoid repetition while referring to something intricate or difficult. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

26%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a complicated one" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote complexity in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers several examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While versatile, it’s best practice to follow up with specific details to justify the complexity. Alternatives like "a complex matter" or "a difficult situation" can be used depending on the desired nuance. The phrase is applicable across different registers, although its frequent use in news and media gives it a largely neutral tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult situation

Focuses on the challenging nature of the situation.

a complex matter

Emphasizes the intricate details and interconnected parts of the issue.

an intricate problem

Highlights the problem's elaborate and involved nature.

a perplexing puzzle

Implies the situation is confusing and hard to solve.

a challenging task

Directly addresses the level of effort and skill required.

a thorny issue

Suggests the presence of potential problems or difficulties.

a convoluted affair

Highlights the winding and confusing nature of the situation.

a delicate question

Indicates the issue needs to be handled with care and sensitivity.

a multifaceted problem

Highlights the many aspects and angles of the problem.

a demanding undertaking

Focuses on the high level of effort and resources required.

FAQs

How can I use "a complicated one" in a sentence?

You can use "a complicated one" to refer to a complex situation, problem, or concept. For example, "The political situation in the region is "a complicated one", with many different factions vying for power."

What can I say instead of "a complicated one"?

You can use alternatives like "a complex matter", "a difficult situation", or "an intricate problem" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a complicated one"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase functions as a noun phrase where "one" stands in for a previously mentioned noun, making the sentence less repetitive.

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

While similar, "complicated" often implies something is difficult to understand or solve due to its many parts or steps, while "complex" emphasizes the intricate and interconnected nature of something. Both can often be used interchangeably.