add complexity

USAGE SUMMARY

"add complexity" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is becoming more complicated or intricate. For example: "This project is proving to be more difficult than anticipated, so we need to find a way to add complexity to our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Food

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Power and heat can add complexity," Mr. Lange said.

The New York Times

Vespolina and croatina grapes add complexity to the nebbiolo.

The New York Times - Food

They don't add complexity to your tax return.

The New York Times

This tendency to add complexity, ambiguity, and doubt is a troubling feature of Pinker's rules.

The New Yorker

Even portraying a character as proudly uncomplicated as Phil, Mr. Cooper tried to add complexity.

The New York Times

Shaken into long-simmering soups and stocks, they add complexity and depth.Read more.

The Economist

It is much easier to add complexity than to work and discover simplicity.

The New York Times

Mr. Rana, without pulling his punches, uses his spices, and herbs, to augment flavors or add complexity to flavor combinations.

The New York Times - Food

"Research has shown that when you add complexity to decision making, some people opt not to choose anything," he said.

The New York Times

The stems have a punchier, sharper flavor than the leaves and can add complexity to a dish.

The New York Times - Food

(A note to anchovy haters: add them anyway. They dissolve into the sauce and add complexity without any fishiness).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "add complexity" when you want to indicate that something is becoming more elaborate, detailed, or intricate. It's appropriate when describing processes, systems, or even flavors.

Common error

Avoid using "add complexity" when simplicity and clarity are preferred. Sometimes, making something more complex can obscure the main point or make it harder to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add complexity" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of making something more intricate or detailed. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a process of elaboration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Food

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "add complexity" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of making something more detailed or intricate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct and frequently used expression across various fields. Analysis of example sentences reveals its prevalence in news, scientific, and culinary contexts. While it's essential to consider whether adding complexity truly enhances understanding or serves a purpose, the phrase itself is widely accepted and understood. When simplicity is key, consider alternatives such as "increase intricacy", or "make more intricate".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increase intricacy

Focuses on the act of making something more detailed and elaborate.

introduce complications

Highlights the potential for problems or difficulties arising from the added complexity.

make more intricate

Emphasizes the enhancement of detail and fine features.

complicate matters

Stresses the act of making a situation or issue more difficult to understand or resolve.

enrich with details

Suggests adding more information or aspects to make something fuller.

weave in layers

Implies integrating multiple levels or aspects to create a more complex structure.

deepen the subject

Focuses on exploring a topic in more depth, adding complexity through detailed analysis.

magnify sophistication

Emphasizes enhancing the refinement and complexity of something.

inject convolution

Highlights the introduction of winding or intricate forms, making something more complex.

augment with features

Suggests adding new capabilities or aspects to enhance functionality and complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "add complexity" in a sentence?

You can use "add complexity" to describe the act of making something more detailed or intricate. For example, "The new regulations "add complexity" to the compliance process".

What are some alternatives to "add complexity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "increase intricacy", "introduce complications", or "make more intricate", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "add complexity" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "add complexity" when you want to describe how a system, process, or design becomes more elaborate or multifaceted. Ensure that the added complexity serves a purpose and is not simply unnecessary complication.

What's the difference between "add complexity" and "complicate matters"?

"Add complexity" generally refers to making something more detailed or intricate, while "complicate matters" often implies making a situation more difficult or problematic. The former is not necessarily negative, whereas the latter usually is.