an intricate composition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an intricate composition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a complex and detailed piece of work, such as a piece of music, art, or writing. Example: "The symphony is an intricate composition that weaves together various musical themes and motifs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

With an intricate composition of small plants, shells or stones, you can help take attention off the view outside.

The New York Times

Its main facade, an intricate composition of limestone window frames, sits uncomfortably alongside the Georgian-style town houses that flank the park to the north and south.

The New York Times

Bhavani Shankar played the two-headed pakhawaj, the South Indian ancestor of the tabla, reciting the high-speed syllables of an intricate composition and bouncing his drum notes from octave to octave.

The New York Times - Arts

Lignocellulosic material has an intricate composition, as shown in Fig. 1.

AMB Express

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

We conclude that in contrary to the B-tether, the A-tether has a more intricate composition and consists of multiple components that presumably vary, at differing degrees of redundancy, between cell types and differentiation stages.

Differentiation

Each image is a stand-alone work, a painstakingly intricate composition of line and layered wash, with areas of paper left untouched to create highlight effects.

The New York Times - Arts

This intricate composition, lasting about an hour, represents Mr. Reich's transition from early, process-oriented Minimalist pieces to a more involved, expressive mode.

The New York Times - Arts

Floral and celestial elements are arranged symmetrically around a portrait, the focus of the intricate composition.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Determining the structure of the nuclear pore complex (NPC) imposes an enormous challenge due to its size, intricate composition and membrane-embedded nature.

Journal of Molecular Biology

All of these wonderful gifts she has given with no apparent regard for her personal vulnerability: in other words she is not only a stunning actress but a lady with the most important part of that intricate composition, which is kindness of heart.

The Guardian

However, while building mathematical models might simplify determining dwell times as they may be, they also mask the intricate composition of the causes of extended dwells.

Urban Rail Transit

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing art, music, or complex systems, use "an intricate composition" to convey a sense of sophisticated design and careful arrangement. For example, "The painting is an intricate composition of colors and textures."

Common error

Avoid using "an intricate composition" when describing something that is merely detailed or complex. Reserve it for situations where the complexity is a key feature and contributes significantly to the subject's nature or impact. For example, don't say "the recipe is an intricate composition" if it just has many ingredients.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an intricate composition" functions as a noun phrase, where "intricate" modifies the noun "composition". It describes something that has many complex parts carefully arranged. This aligns with Ludwig's finding that it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an intricate composition" is a phrase used to describe something complex and carefully arranged. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly news, science, and art. While not exceedingly common, it effectively conveys sophistication and detail. Consider alternatives like "a complex design" or "a detailed arrangement" to vary your writing, and avoid using it in overly simplistic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex design

Emphasizes the complexity of the arrangement or layout.

a detailed arrangement

Highlights the level of detail and planning involved.

an elaborate creation

Focuses on the effort and artistry put into making something complex.

a sophisticated piece

Suggests a high level of refinement and artistry.

a painstaking construction

Highlights the care and precision involved in building something complex.

a labyrinthine structure

Emphasizes the complexity and potentially confusing nature of the arrangement.

a convoluted formulation

Focuses on the complexity and potential difficulty in understanding the idea or plan.

a complex interplay

Highlights the interaction of different parts within the whole.

a masterful synthesis

Highlights the skill in combining elements into a complex whole.

a multifaceted entity

Emphasizes the multiple aspects and layers of something.

FAQs

How can I use "an intricate composition" in a sentence?

You can use "an intricate composition" to describe something with many complex and interwoven elements. For example, "The novel's plot is an intricate composition of suspense and intrigue."

What are some alternatives to "an intricate composition"?

Alternatives include "a complex design", "a detailed arrangement", or "an elaborate creation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe a simple design as "an intricate composition"?

No, "an intricate composition" implies a high degree of complexity and detail. It's best reserved for describing things that are genuinely complex and multifaceted.

What's the difference between "an intricate composition" and "a simple arrangement"?

"An intricate composition" suggests a complex and interwoven structure, while "a simple arrangement" implies a straightforward and uncomplicated design.