as complex as

USAGE SUMMARY

'as complex as' is a correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It is typically used when comparing two things to suggest they are of equal complexity. For example, "The new accounting system is just as complex as the old one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are as complex as they sound.

The Economist

"It's as complex as it sounds".

The New York Times

Art is just as complex as war.

The Guardian - Arts

They're each as complex as the other.

The New York Times - Magazine

Or as complex as a human brain?

Cornell University

As complex as Mosul is, Raqqa is more complex.

The New Yorker

Is a dawn chorus as complex as a parliamentary debate?

The Guardian - Opinion

He's as complex as the rest of us.

The Guardian - Arts

That's as complex as the licensing issue needs to be.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Fausti's rhinoceros contains linear patterns as complex as Dürer's.

The New York Times

It's as complex as love in the world today.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as complex as", ensure that the comparison is clear and that both subjects of comparison are well-defined for the reader. Use it to highlight a surprising or unexpected similarity in complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "as complex as" when one subject is clearly far more complex than the other. Ensure there's a genuine parity in intricacy to maintain credibility and avoid misleading the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as complex as" functions as a comparative structure, specifically used to equate the level of intricacy or difficulty between two distinct subjects. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as complex as" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative phrase that draws parallels between two subjects based on their level of intricacy. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. Its usage spans across diverse fields, from News & Media to Academia, making it a versatile tool for expressing similarity in complexity. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is justified and the subjects are well-defined to avoid misleading the reader. Consider alternatives like "equally intricate" or "just as complicated" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of similar difficulty

Emphasizes that both things are equally difficult.

just as complicated

Emphasizes the level of complication involved in both subjects being compared.

every bit as challenging

Emphasizes the challenge presented by both subjects, indicating that one is not easier than the other.

equally intricate

Focuses on the intricate nature of both subjects, highlighting a similarity in detail.

bears the same intricacy

Directly states that both subjects possess an equal level of intricate detail.

on par in complexity

Uses the idiom "on par" to signify equal standing in terms of difficulty.

as labyrinthine

Uses the adjective "labyrinthine" to suggest that both items are complex and maze-like.

no less involved

Indicates that the second subject requires just as much engagement or consideration.

comparably convoluted

Highlights the convoluted, or twisted, nature of both items being compared.

matches in sophistication

Focuses on the sophistication level, implying a similarity in advanced or refined qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "as complex as" in a sentence?

You can use "as complex as" to compare the intricacy of two different subjects. For example, "Quantum physics is "as complex as" the human brain".

What are some alternatives to "as complex as"?

Alternatives include "equally intricate", "just as complicated", or "no less involved" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'so complex as' instead of "as complex as"?

While "so complex as" might be grammatically understandable, it is less common and can sound awkward. Sticking with "as complex as" ensures clarity and adherence to standard English usage.

What's the difference between "as complex as" and "more complex than"?

"As complex as" indicates that two things are similarly intricate. "More complex than", on the other hand, specifies that one thing is more complicated than another. The former implies parity, while the latter implies a difference in degree.