a deep tangle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deep tangle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complex or confusing situation, often involving intertwined elements or issues. Example: "The negotiations turned into a deep tangle of conflicting interests and demands, making it difficult to reach an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The interactions between Sara and her mother are small wonders, each seemingly mundane conversation showing at its root a deep tangle of rejection and misunderstanding and longing.

The New York Times - Books

Then the music grew by degrees from all quarters of the band, forming a deep tangle of notated lines and emptied out into a bridge section, which felt like a whole new atmosphere, as a bridge section should.

The New York Times - Arts

The invert's sexuality was an expression of a deep tangle of neuroses.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

At New China, you can get not one, but two kinds of river eel: stir-fried with scallion, and Liang Xi, crisp pieces, golden brown and crunchy, a deep-fried tangle that, when done perfectly as on one visit, beats French fries, but another time, didn't leave the fryer in time and tasted merely burned.

The New York Times

We find the bewitching Madame George, the ecstatic Sweet Thing, the great knee-deep tangle of reminiscence that made up Cyprus Avenue.

The Guardian - Music

Then there is a sewage treatment plant, followed by the neatly manicured mounds of a golf course, the bend of a river, a deep valley and a tangle of intersecting roads.

The Guardian

But soon she falls into a deep sleep, dipping into dreams tangled with white orange blossoms and zigzagging Moorish tiles.

Huffington Post

But on the next play, Favre lofted a deep pass down the right sideline for receiver Jerricho Cotchery, who tangled with defensive back Deltha O'Neal and still managed to come down with the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

Serpentine and densely contrapuntal, Mr. Threadgill's music wound around a deep, funky pocket without settling in, as tiny riffs and parade-band gestures tangled into a heady thicket of oozing, jolting exuberance.

The New York Times - Arts

The howling wind tangled her long white hair, baring a shoulder that had received a deep bite.

The Guardian - Books

Evans hits a deep vein just below the Mason-Dixon, especially in her exploration of how an immigrant population has tangled the color line.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a deep tangle", ensure the context clearly establishes what is intertwined or complex. The phrase works best when the subject of the tangle is explicitly mentioned or easily inferred by the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a deep tangle" in contexts where simpler descriptions would suffice. Overusing metaphorical language can make your writing sound convoluted rather than insightful. Instead of "a deep tangle of paperwork", consider "complex paperwork" if the depth isn't crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deep tangle" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object, describing a situation, relationship, or problem that is complex and intertwined. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deep tangle" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe situations marked by significant complexity and interwoven elements. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While its frequency is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts, it serves a clear communicative purpose of conveying intricacy. When writing, ensure the context warrants the use of such a vivid metaphor; consider simpler alternatives if the depth of complexity is not essential. Be mindful of overuse to avoid sounding convoluted. Related phrases like "a complex web" or "a complicated mess" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific shade of meaning you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex web

Focuses on the intricate connections and interdependencies within the situation.

a complicated mess

Emphasizes the disarray and lack of order, adding a negative connotation.

an intricate knot

Highlights the difficulty in untangling or resolving the situation.

a profound entanglement

Adds a sense of depth and significance to the interconnectedness.

a convoluted situation

Stresses the complex and difficult-to-follow nature of the circumstances.

a labyrinthine affair

Draws a parallel to a maze, suggesting confusion and potential dead ends.

a Gordian knot

Suggests a problem solvable only by bold or unconventional action.

a snarled complexity

Emphasizes the jumbled and difficult-to-manage aspects.

an involved complication

Highlights the degree of participation and intricacy of the factors involved.

a perplexing conundrum

Suggests that the situation is puzzling and difficult to understand.

FAQs

How can I use "a deep tangle" in a sentence?

You can use "a deep tangle" to describe situations involving complex relationships or problems. For instance: "The legal case became "a deep tangle" of conflicting testimonies and legal precedents."

What's a good alternative to "a deep tangle"?

Alternatives include "a complex web", "a complicated mess", or "an intricate knot". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a deep tangle" formal or informal?

"A deep tangle" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it might be more appropriate to use simpler language in very informal settings.

When is it not appropriate to use "a deep tangle"?

Avoid using "a deep tangle" when describing something straightforward or simple. The phrase implies a significant level of complexity, so it's unsuitable for uncomplicated scenarios. Also, consider whether the "depth" aspect of the tangle is relevant; if not, consider a simpler description.