complex apparatus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex apparatus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sophisticated or intricate device or system, often in technical or scientific contexts. Example: "The research team developed a complex apparatus to conduct their experiments on particle physics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

In its earlier form, a separation was conducted in complex apparatus by partition of substances in various solvents.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These people take orders from a complex apparatus that briefs them about what is permitted, orders changes or deletions to content, and punishes them.

The Guardian - Tech

Since becoming archbishop, Cardinal O'Connor has run the complex apparatus of the archdiocese by granting the heads of major departments great latitude and authority.

The New York Times

Like every other component of the complex apparatus that keeps the Metropolitan Opera functioning smoothly, the chorus has had its ups and downs over the last 125 years.

The New York Times - Arts

He learned later from the doctor, that within the cubes were the cerebral mechanisms of his disembodied patients; pure consciousnesses maintained by daily electric charges and a complex apparatus.

The New Yorker

Now we have "No Child Left Behind," in which Congress has set up a complex apparatus of sanctions and standards designed to compel individual schools toward steady annual improvement, with the goal of making a hundred per cent of American schoolchildren proficient in math and reading by 2014.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Such information and elucidation of the connections between processes happening under different conditions, which are however connected in vivo, are often inaccessible with the use of less complex apparatuses.

BioMed Research International

But knowledge of the complex Vatican apparatus weighed heavily in favor of Italians.

The New York Times

A rather complex copulatory apparatus consists of an evertible (capable of turning outward) penis, or cirrus, in the male and a canal, or vagina, in the female.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet it is clear that his administration's misuse and abuse of the complex intelligence apparatus has created an additional crisis, which is the collapse of the structure and morale of security personnel.

The New York Times

Hacking's question really asked how do we come to believe in an experimental result obtained with a complex experimental apparatus?

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing scientific or technical processes, use "complex apparatus" to convey the intricate nature of the equipment involved.

Common error

Avoid using "complex apparatus" when a simpler term like "tool" or "device" would suffice. Overusing technical jargon can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex apparatus" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "apparatus". It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complex apparatus" is a grammatically correct and useful term for describing intricate systems or equipment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for formal, scientific, and technical contexts. While its frequency is uncommon, its usage in authoritative sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica underscores its validity. When using the phrase, consider whether simpler alternatives might be more appropriate for general audiences, and always ensure the context warrants the level of technicality the term implies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sophisticated equipment

Emphasizes the advanced and refined nature of the equipment.

intricate mechanism

Highlights the detailed and interconnected parts of the mechanism.

complicated system

Focuses on the difficulty in understanding or operating the system.

elaborate device

Suggests the device is highly detailed and carefully constructed.

advanced machinery

Implies the machinery is at the forefront of technological development.

technical setup

Refers to a setup that requires expertise and technical knowledge.

multifaceted instrument

Emphasizes the many aspects and capabilities of the instrument.

composite structure

Highlights the elements combined to form a complex whole.

highly developed system

Highlights a system that has been improved or worked on over time.

specialized tool

Implies a tool designed for a specific or technical purpose.

FAQs

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

You can use "complex apparatus" to describe sophisticated or intricate equipment. For example, "The experiment required a "complex apparatus" to measure the subatomic particles."

What is a suitable substitute for "complex apparatus"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "sophisticated equipment", "intricate mechanism", or "complicated system".

Is it better to say "complex apparatus" or "complicated apparatus"?

"Complex apparatus" and "complicated apparatus" are often interchangeable. However, "complex" emphasizes the intricate design, while "complicated" highlights the difficulty in understanding or using it. The better choice depends on the intended emphasis.

In what fields is the term "complex apparatus" commonly used?

The term "complex apparatus" is frequently used in scientific, medical, and engineering fields to describe intricate and specialized equipment. It's also common in discussions of organizational structure, though usually in a metaphorical sense.