appetite for complication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appetite for complication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person's tendency or desire to engage with complex or intricate situations or ideas. Example: "Her appetite for complication often led her to take on projects that others would shy away from due to their complexity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It also shows his appetite for complication.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's complication for complication's sake.

The New York Times - Arts

The appetite for admittance can become insatiable.

The New Yorker

The appetite for those is apparently endless.

The New York Times - Arts

It may whet their appetite for reciprocation.

The New York Times

Then, consider your appetite for risk.

The New York Times

Is there a public appetite for this?

Independent

Tang developed an appetite for the classics.

The New Yorker

My appetite for this venture surprised me.

Independent

Voters have little appetite for such intervention.

The Economist

He also had an appetite for pain.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "appetite for complication" to describe someone who actively seeks out or enjoys dealing with complex issues, rather than someone who is merely capable of handling them. This implies a positive inclination towards complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "appetite for complication" when describing a situation that is unnecessarily complex or convoluted. The phrase implies a willing engagement with complexity, not a passive acceptance of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appetite for complication" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the subject complement. It describes a characteristic or tendency of a person or entity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appetite for complication" is a valid, though relatively rare, noun phrase used to describe a fondness or eagerness for dealing with complex matters. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is usable in written English. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider the connotation: it implies a proactive enjoyment of complexity, not just passive acceptance. As such, it is best used to describe individuals or strategies that actively seek out complex solutions. Related phrases include "fondness for complexity" and "inclination towards intricacy".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fondness for complexity

Replaces "appetite" with "fondness", indicating a preference rather than a desire. "Complication" is replaced with "complexity", which has a similar meaning.

inclination towards intricacy

Changes the noun to "inclination", suggesting a natural tendency. "Intricacy" replaces "complication", focusing on detailed and elaborate aspects.

taste for complexity

Substitutes "appetite" with "taste", implying a refined appreciation for complex matters.

penchant for the convoluted

Uses "penchant", indicating a strong liking. "Convoluted" replaces "complication", highlighting the intricate and complex nature.

affinity for involved situations

Replaces "appetite" with "affinity", suggesting a natural liking. The phrase is reworded to focus on "involved situations" instead of the abstract concept of complication.

attraction to complex scenarios

Uses "attraction", indicating a draw towards complexity. "Scenarios" is used to make the phrase more concrete.

propensity for elaborate details

Replaces "appetite" with "propensity", indicating a natural inclination. Focuses on "elaborate details" to convey the idea of complication.

enjoyment of intricate problems

Expresses a direct enjoyment, replacing the metaphorical "appetite". Focuses on "intricate problems" as a form of complication.

preference for sophisticated matters

Replaces "appetite" with "preference", suggesting a deliberate choice. "Sophisticated matters" is used to convey the sense of complexity.

relish for complex systems

Uses "relish" to convey a sense of enjoyment, and "complex systems" replaces the more general term "complication".

FAQs

What does "appetite for complication" mean?

The phrase "appetite for complication" describes a liking or eagerness for complex and intricate situations or ideas. It suggests someone is not daunted by complexity but rather seeks it out.

How can I use "appetite for complication" in a sentence?

You might say, "The project manager's "appetite for complication" led the team to explore innovative but challenging solutions."

What are some alternatives to "appetite for complication"?

Consider alternatives such as "fondness for complexity", "taste for complexity", or "inclination towards intricacy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "appetite for complexity" or "appetite for complication"?

Both "appetite for complexity" and "appetite for complication" are valid, but "complexity" is generally a broader term, while "complication" may suggest something unnecessarily complex. The best choice depends on the specific context.