an elaborate plot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an elaborate plot" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a story or situation that contains numerous complex or detailed elements. For example, "The movie had an elaborate plot that included a lot of unexpected twists and turns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

He called the prosecution's description of an elaborate plot "preposterous".

The New York Times

It would not take an elaborate plot by Al Qaeda to endanger many lives.

The New York Times

She imagines an elaborate plot in which the director has to choose Camilla or be killed.

The Guardian - Film

After Ms. Sumasar refused to drop the rape charges, prosecutors said, Mr. Ramrattan concocted an elaborate plot to frame her.

The New York Times

At times it seemed as though the whole thing had been an elaborate plot just to annoy the short-fingered vulgarian.

The New York Times - Books

Here, Murr weaves an elaborate plot, shifting perspective between small-town characters — adults, outcasts and the handful of teenagers who form the novel's core.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The branding of Minion Yellow is another damaging step in the privatisation of colour, but it also feels like an elaborate plot-line straight from its own film, given whose idea the marketing trick was in the first place.

The Guardian - Arts

It was not possible to illustrate the story in the game itself – due to Cannon Fodder 2s – simple nature and so Campbell began work on an elaborate "plot-to-be", partially completing a novella intended to accompany the final product.

Wikipedia

In "The Angel's Game," as in his previous novel, "The Shadow of the Wind," he spins a fantastically elaborate plot from a slender, whimsical idea.

The New York Times - Books

But Terrence Rafferty, in the Book Review, proclaimed the novel's pleasures "guilty ones," as Ruiz Zafón "spins a fantastically elaborate plot from a slender, whimsical idea," namely the notion that "a writer might, on a bad day, succumb to a sense of futility about the value of his calling, might begin to believe that the act of telling a story isn't just vain, but positively diabolical".

The New York Times - Books

This is a large, lavishly inventive novel, with a huge cast of characters and a dizzyingly elaborate plot.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing fictional narratives, use "an elaborate plot" to convey complexity and intrigue. This is particularly effective in genres like thrillers, mysteries, and science fiction.

Common error

Avoid using "an elaborate plot" to describe simple or straightforward plans. The phrase implies a high degree of complexity and detail, so it should be reserved for scenarios that truly warrant it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an elaborate plot" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It typically describes a complex plan or scheme, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Books

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an elaborate plot" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a complex and intricately designed plan or scheme. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it conveys intricacy and, often, deception. When writing, reserve this phrase for scenarios that genuinely involve a high level of complexity. Alternative phrases, such as "a complex scheme" or "a detailed conspiracy", can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context you wish to convey. Overall, "an elaborate plot" is a versatile phrase for describing complex strategies in both fiction and real-world scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex scheme

Focuses on the intricacy of the plan rather than its scale.

a detailed conspiracy

Emphasizes the secretive and often malicious nature of the plan.

an intricate design

Highlights the careful planning and artistry involved.

a sophisticated ruse

Implies a deceptive plan executed with finesse.

a well-developed stratagem

Stresses the strategic and thought-out nature of the plan.

a convoluted scheme

Draws attention to the confusing and tangled nature of the plan.

a labyrinthine plan

Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty in navigating the plan.

a masterful game plan

Highlights the expertise and skill involved in creating the plan.

a cunning strategy

Stresses the cleverness and deception used in the plan.

an involved intrigue

Highlights the elements of mystery and secret machinations.

FAQs

How can I use "an elaborate plot" in a sentence?

You can use "an elaborate plot" to describe a story or scheme with many complex details and twists. For example: "The movie's success hinged on its "elaborate plot" involving international espionage".

What is a simpler way to say "an elaborate plot"?

Depending on the context, you can use simpler alternatives like "a complex scheme", "a detailed plan", or even just "a conspiracy".

What are some common themes in stories featuring "an elaborate plot"?

Stories with "elaborate plots" often involve themes like deception, betrayal, mystery, and suspense, as characters navigate the intricate web of the plan.

Is it better to have "an elaborate plot" or a simple one?

The choice between "an elaborate plot" and a simple one depends on the type of story you want to tell. "Elaborate plots" can create suspense and intrigue, while simpler ones can focus on character development or thematic exploration.