complex environment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex environment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or setting that has many interconnected parts or factors, often making it difficult to navigate or understand. Example: "The research was conducted in a complex environment, where multiple variables influenced the outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But I think it's much more complex environment of tribal linkages, and intertribal complexity than there is in Iraq.

Huffington Post

The civil service is a complex environment.

The Guardian

"It is a complex environment we work in".

The New York Times

Why don't they read up?It's such a complex environment.

The Economist

It could, said Mr Key, be a "very complex environment.

The Economist

Can Washington get beyond unilateral, unthinking responses to play successfully in such a new, complex environment?

The Guardian - Opinion

"The reality is this is a very complex environment," he said.

The Guardian

"We're in a very complex environment right now," said Maj. Tatiana Stead, a Pentagon spokeswoman.

The New York Times

He described Afghanistan as "a far more complex environment than I ever found in Iraq".

The Guardian

"It's a more complex environment," Ms. Lubash said about health care.

The New York Times

Blind people traversing a city face a formidable challenge: quickly and safely navigating a complex environment.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "complex environment", be specific about the factors contributing to its complexity. Use concrete examples to illustrate the challenges and interconnectedness within that environment.

Common error

Avoid using "complex environment" as a generic term without providing context. Vague descriptions can leave the reader unsure about the specific complexities involved. Always clarify what makes the environment complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex environment" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "complex" modifies the noun "environment". This phrase describes the characteristics of the environment, indicating that it is not simple or straightforward. Ludwig AI confirms its versatile use across multiple contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complex environment" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression that effectively describes multifaceted scenarios across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms that. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it signifies intricate settings necessitating careful navigation. While perfectly acceptable, writers should ensure they provide sufficient context when employing the phrase to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives such as ""complicated situation"" or ""intricate setting"" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts, while still avoiding redundancy. In summary, "complex environment" is a versatile and valuable tool for describing intricate situations, requiring thoughtful application for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complicated situation

Focuses on the situational aspect, implying a set of circumstances that are difficult to deal with.

intricate setting

Highlights the detailed and elaborate nature of the environment.

challenging landscape

Emphasizes the difficulties and obstacles present in the environment.

sophisticated system

Suggests a high degree of complexity and refinement in the environmental structure.

elaborate context

Draws attention to the detailed and comprehensive nature of the surrounding circumstances.

multifaceted scenario

Indicates that the environment has many different aspects and dimensions.

involved circumstances

Implies that the conditions are deeply connected and interdependent.

convoluted framework

Suggests a twisted and complicated structure or system.

demanding atmosphere

Highlights the pressures and requirements imposed by the environment.

labyrinthine situation

Emphasizes the confusing and maze-like nature of the environment.

FAQs

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

To effectively use "complex environment", clearly specify what aspects contribute to the complexity. For example, you might say, "The business operated in a "complex environment" characterized by rapidly changing regulations and intense competition."

What are some alternatives to "complex environment"?

Some alternatives to "complex environment" include "complicated situation", "intricate setting", and "challenging landscape". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very complex environment"?

While not grammatically incorrect, saying "very complex environment" can be redundant. Consider using a stronger single word like "labyrinthine" or providing specific details about the environment's complexity instead.

What distinguishes a "complex environment" from a "simple environment"?

A "complex environment" involves numerous interconnected factors and uncertainties, making predictions difficult. A "simple environment", conversely, has few variables and predictable outcomes.