be a complex one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a complex one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is intricate or complicated in nature. Example: "The problem we are facing may be a complex one, requiring careful analysis and multiple perspectives to solve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"Any privatisation process is also likely to be a complex one, and that complexity could create uncertainty within the current Channel 4 organisation.

The Guardian

The effect of cyclic and branched alkanes on the activity of a commercial crystal modifier was studied and observed to be a complex one.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

The interaction between image features that results in the differentiation could be a complex one and definitely needs further exploration.

Breast Cancer Research

Our findings suggest that, contrary to the prevailing concept of the cancer-promoting role of cancer-associated adipocytes, the true interaction between cancer cells and the neighboring adipose tissue can be a complex one.

Breast Cancer Research

The data showed the relationship between the two concepts to be a complex one: sometimes communication was seen by participants as a subset of what constitutes an effective team; however, other times team working was seen as a means to achieve good communication.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The problem of unaccompanied minors is a complex one that touches on the I.N.S.'s varied ills.

The New York Times

A topic like fake news, or more broadly the question of trust and verification on the internet, is a complex one — a land of contrasts.

TechCrunch

The question of the impact of medical co-morbidity on cognitive function is a complex one.

BMC Geriatrics

Yet the issue of bio-fuels on a global scale is a complex one.

Huffington Post

"The impact of alcohol prices on public health and crime and disorder is a complex one and we will continue to consider further how to tackle this issue".

The Guardian

"The process is a complex one.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a complex one", ensure that the context clearly indicates what 'one' refers to. This avoids ambiguity and keeps your writing precise.

Common error

Avoid using "be a complex one" in situations where a simpler adjective like 'complicated' or 'intricate' would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a complex one" functions as a predicate adjective modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes the subject as having multiple interconnected parts, making it difficult to understand or deal with. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a complex one" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes something as intricate and multifaceted. Ludwig confirms its validity, with examples appearing in diverse contexts such as news, science, and formal writing. While suitable for formal settings, it's important to avoid overuse and ensure the complexity is genuine. Alternatives such as "present a multifaceted nature" or "involve intricate dynamics" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to clearly define the 'one' being described to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

present a multifaceted nature

Replaces "be" with "present" and "complex" with "multifaceted", emphasizing the many aspects involved.

involve intricate dynamics

Shifts the focus to the "dynamics" and uses "intricate" instead of "complex", highlighting the detailed interactions.

entail significant complications

Uses "entail" to indicate involvement and replaces "complex" with "significant complications", stressing difficulties.

pose a considerable challenge

Highlights the challenging aspect of dealing with something complex.

demonstrate inherent intricacy

Focuses on the "intricacy" being a fundamental characteristic.

exhibit considerable depth

Uses "depth" to convey complexity, suggesting layers of understanding are required.

show remarkable sophistication

Highlights the advanced or refined nature of the subject.

prove to be highly involved

Emphasizes the high degree of engagement or interconnectedness required.

reflect underlying intricacy

Focuses on the hidden or less obvious detailed nature of the subject.

embody significant elaboration

Highlights the highly detailed and developed nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "be a complex one" in a sentence?

You can use "be a complex one" to describe a situation, problem, or system that is difficult to understand or deal with due to its many interconnected parts. For example, "The political situation in the region is a complex one."

What's the difference between "be a complex one" and "be complicated"?

"Be complicated" is a more general term for something difficult to understand. "Be a complex one" implies a system or situation with many interacting parts that make it difficult to analyze. You could use alternatives like "be intricate" or "involve significant complications".

What are some alternatives to "be a complex one"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "present a multifaceted nature", "involve intricate dynamics", or "entail significant complications".

Is it appropriate to use "be a complex one" in formal writing?

Yes, "be a complex one" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing intricate systems or situations. However, ensure the complexity is real and not just a matter of simple difficulty. Consider if more concise alternatives would be appropriate.