complex connotations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex connotations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the nuanced meanings or implications of a word, phrase, or concept that are not immediately obvious. Example: "The term 'freedom' carries complex connotations that vary across different cultures and contexts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But, given a history of wealth and exclusion, prep at Harvard comes with its own set of complex connotations.

The New York Times

"It has a lot of complex connotations.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Now to the deliciously complex geopolitical connotations and semantic shadings of the word.

The New York Times - Magazine

THE OPEN MINDERS Some people aren't willing to say, "I think an invisible planet will suddenly collide with the Earth and all life will end," or "The time 11 11 has complex, ominous connotations," because that would be totally insane.

Vice

Postevent debriefing is a complex intervention, with many connotations described in the literature (29).

Critical Care Medicine

Since the definition of Western Europe is complex and carries economic and cultural connotations, we adopted the definition of the renowned National Geographic Society.

BMC Health Services Research

The inherent difficulties in studying a complex, low base rate behavior with negative connotations have stimulated methodological diversity.

Human Resource Management Review

As such, the widespread appeal of risk matrices is fundamentally constituted through their symbolic connotations by means of which complex and potentially not well understood processes come to appear simple, imaginable and 'manageable'manageable

Accounting, Organizations and Society

The other broad life evaluations are not quite as complex as happiness (xingfu), but they do have a variety of connotations.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Please notice that we do not refer to the functional elementary entities out of which complex processes can be composed as primitives or synergies as these concepts have particular connotations in the motor control literature (see above) and the framework here outlined is not limited to motor behavior.

Plosone

And remember, connotations evolve.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complex connotations", ensure that the context provides sufficient information to understand the specific complexities you are referring to. Avoid vagueness by giving examples or clarifying the different layers of meaning involved.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that the "complex connotations" of a word or concept are universally understood. Be mindful of cultural and regional differences that can significantly alter the perceived meanings. Always consider your audience and adjust your language accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex connotations" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "connotations". It serves to describe the nature of the implied meanings or associations linked to a particular word, concept, or situation. As Ludwig AI states, it refers to nuanced meanings that are not immediately obvious.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

38%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complex connotations" is a grammatically correct and usable expression referring to the intricate and multi-layered implications of a word, concept, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the phrase appears in diverse contexts, from News & Media to Science. While not exceedingly common, its usage indicates a sophisticated understanding of language. When employing "complex connotations", clarifying examples and cultural awareness are crucial. Related phrases such as ""intricate implications"" or ""nuanced meanings"" can serve as alternatives depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate implications

Replaces "connotations" with "implications" and "complex" with "intricate", emphasizing the detailed and complicated nature of the implied meanings.

nuanced implications

Replaces "complex" with "nuanced", highlighting the subtle and delicate distinctions in meaning.

complicated associations

Substitutes "connotations" with "associations", focusing on the connections and links that are complex.

layered meanings

Emphasizes the multiple levels of meaning inherent in the expression, using a more metaphorical approach.

deep-seated associations

Highlights the deeply rooted nature of the associations, suggesting a historical or cultural depth.

rich implications

Focuses on the abundance and fullness of the implied meanings, using "rich" as a descriptor.

multifaceted implications

Directly indicates that the implications have many different aspects or sides.

involved meanings

Suggests that the meanings are intricate and require careful consideration.

subtle nuances

Focuses on the finer points and delicate distinctions within the meanings.

detailed implications

Emphasizes the thoroughness and specificity of the implied meanings.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "complex connotations" in a sentence?

To effectively use "complex connotations", provide context or examples to clarify the specific nuances you're referring to. For instance, instead of saying "The word has complex connotations", specify what those complexities are: "The word 'freedom' has "complex connotations", varying across different cultures and historical periods".

What are some alternatives to "complex connotations"?

Alternatives to "complex connotations" include "intricate implications", "nuanced meanings", or "complicated associations". The best choice depends on the specific aspect of complexity you want to emphasize.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "complex connotations"?

"Complex connotations" is appropriate in academic, analytical, and descriptive writing where you need to convey that a term or concept carries layered, non-obvious meanings. It's suitable for discussions of cultural, historical, or psychological factors influencing interpretation.

What's the difference between "complex connotations" and "simple connotations"?

"Complex connotations" implies that the implied meanings are layered and intricate, requiring deeper understanding. "Simple connotations" suggests that the implied meanings are straightforward and easily understood. Using "complex connotations" indicates that the subject has a multifaceted interpretation, unlike something with "simple connotations".