complex behaviour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex behaviour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or reactions that are intricate and not easily understood, often in contexts related to psychology, biology, or social sciences. Example: "The study aimed to analyze the complex behaviour of social animals in their natural habitat."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Many Drosophila studies have used experimental selection of complex behaviour to identify the gene(s) underlying behavioural response.

Biology Open

It's remarkably complex behaviour for what we'd think of as a very primitive human-like species.

The Guardian

The HANDY model's utility, in other words, is precisely its ability to reproduce complex behaviour despite a simple model structure.

The Guardian

Whether epigenetics is important for other, more complex, behaviour remains to be seen.

The Economist

Therefore, the bulk of the complex behaviour of birds is instinctive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Complex behaviour could be explained by a series of such simple response mechanisms, according to Hull.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The dark sector could contain rich physics and potentially complex behaviour".

Independent

A complex behaviour termed "play" frequently occurs between siblings, between members of an age class, or between parent and offspring.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Organisms that possess a nervous system are capable of much more complex behaviour than are organisms that do not.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The researchers insist: "This study is particularly rigorous because it examines, step by step, the learning conditions that supported the emergence of this complex behaviour".

The Guardian

It is one of the best examples in science of how a few simple rules can result in incredibly complex behaviour.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a phenomenon as having "complex behaviour", be specific about the aspects that make it complex. Provide examples or details to illustrate the intricacy involved.

Common error

Avoid using "complex behaviour" as a vague descriptor. Instead of simply stating that something exhibits "complex behaviour", identify the specific elements or interactions that contribute to its complexity. This adds clarity and depth to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex behaviour" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes actions or reactions characterized by intricate or multifaceted patterns. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

22%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complex behaviour" is a versatile term used to describe intricate actions and reactions across various fields. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. While "complex behaviour" is common in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, it is crucial to avoid overgeneralization and instead provide specific details about the nature of the complexity being described. Consider using alternatives like "intricate behavior" or "multifaceted behavior" to fine-tune the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate behavior

Replaces "complex" with "intricate", emphasizing the detailed and elaborate nature of the behavior.

complicated behavior

Substitutes "complex" with "complicated", highlighting the difficult or involved aspect of the behavior.

multifaceted behavior

Replaces "complex" with "multifaceted", stressing the many aspects or sides of the behavior.

sophisticated behavior

Uses "sophisticated" instead of "complex", suggesting a higher level of development or refinement in the behavior.

elaborate behavior

Replaces "complex" with "elaborate", focusing on the detailed and carefully arranged nature of the behavior.

advanced behavior

Substitutes "complex" with "advanced", indicating a behavior that is beyond the basic or fundamental level.

involved behavior

Replaces "complex" with "involved", highlighting the intricacy and interconnectedness of the behavior.

compound behavior

Substitutes "complex" with "compound", suggesting a behavior made up of multiple parts or elements.

composite behavior

Replaces "complex" with "composite", focusing on how behavior consist of distinct parts.

intricate set of actions

Phrase describes how behavior consists of actions that are interconnected and complicated.

FAQs

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

You can use "complex behaviour" to describe a wide range of phenomena. For example: "The model simulates the "complex behaviour" of the stock market" or "Understanding the "complex behaviour" of social insects requires interdisciplinary research".

What are some alternatives to "complex behaviour"?

Alternatives include "intricate behavior", "complicated behavior", or "multifaceted behavior", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is "complex behaviour" commonly used?

"Complex behaviour" is frequently used in scientific research, news reporting, and encyclopedic descriptions, particularly in fields like biology, physics, sociology, and economics.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "complex behaviour"?

The phrase "complex behaviour" is generally correct, but avoid using it as a placeholder for a more specific description. Always strive to identify and explain the sources or manifestations of the complexity you are describing.