an intricate setup

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an intricate setup" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complex arrangement or system that involves many interconnected parts or details. Example: "The project required an intricate setup of equipment to ensure everything functioned smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The confrontation between the captain and his clone involves a fairly intricate elaborate setup.

The New York Times

She became an intricate lyricist.

The New York Times - Arts

It is an intricate, gripping family history.

The Guardian - Film

The Illusionist is an intricate jewel.

The Guardian - Film

Although "Clybourne Park" has some of the contrivances of an intricate old-fashioned plot — including a document to be hidden in the first act and exhumed in the second — its story is mostly a setup for a series of misbegotten debates.

The New York Times

We had an intricate tribal system.

TechCrunch

It is decorated with an intricate pattern.

BBC

Underneath was an intricate lace skirt.

HuffPost

Nonetheless, an intricate phenomenon appears.

BMC Systems Biology

Protein folding is an intricate process.

Biotechnology journal

This determination presents an intricate challenge.

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "an intricate setup", ensure you highlight the specific elements contributing to its complexity. Providing examples or breaking down the components can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "an intricate setup" as a vague descriptor. Instead, provide specific examples of what makes the setup intricate, such as multiple interconnected parts or a complex process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an intricate setup" functions primarily as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It typically acts as a subject or object, describing something with a complex and detailed arrangement, as shown in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an intricate setup" is grammatically correct and denotes a complex arrangement or system. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in diverse writing contexts. While relatively common in news, media, and scientific domains, it conveys a sense of sophistication and detail. When using this phrase, ensure that the complexities are clearly articulated to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "a complex arrangement" or "a detailed configuration", each carrying slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex arrangement

Focuses on the complexity of the arrangement, omitting the implication of detailed design.

a detailed configuration

Highlights the detailed nature of the configuration, not necessarily its complexity.

an elaborate system

Emphasizes the system's elaborateness, suggesting a higher degree of development.

a sophisticated structure

Indicates a refined and advanced structure, implying intelligence in design.

a convoluted plan

Suggests a plan that is unnecessarily complicated and difficult to follow.

a multifaceted design

Highlights the many aspects of the design, emphasizing variety and comprehensiveness.

a sophisticated framework

Similar to a structure but more abstract, implying a guiding system of rules or ideas.

a tangled web

Emphasizes the confusing and interwoven nature of the setup, often with negative connotations.

a labyrinthine system

Emphasizes the maze-like quality of the system, suggesting difficulty in navigating or understanding it.

a complicated scheme

Focuses on the scheme's complexity, often suggesting a degree of secretiveness or intrigue.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The experiment required "an intricate setup" of sensors to gather accurate data" or "The novel's plot relies on "an intricate setup" of events to mislead the reader".

What are some alternatives to "an intricate setup"?

Consider using phrases like "a complex arrangement", "a detailed configuration", or "an elaborate system" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an intricate setup"?

Use "an intricate setup" when you want to emphasize the complexity and detailed nature of a particular arrangement, system, or plan. It's suitable when the setup involves many interconnected parts and requires careful planning and execution.

Is there a difference between "an intricate setup" and "a complicated setup"?

While both phrases suggest complexity, "an intricate setup" implies a level of detail and precision that may not be present in "a complicated setup". "Intricate" suggests skillful design, whereas "complicated" may simply imply difficulty or confusion.