complex pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a design, structure, or sequence that is intricate or not straightforward. Example: "The artist's work features a complex pattern that draws the viewer's eye and invites deeper exploration."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This leads to complex pattern of currents.

MIT Technology Review

The Caribbean has a complex pattern of trade and communications.

Britannica

A complex pattern of island arcs is found in Indonesia.

Britannica

You have a very complex pattern of progress.

University of California, Berkeley

Here was proof that the big parks were just hubs in a much more complex pattern.

The New York Times

"Neurons" carrying those signals cross in a complex pattern of nested connections, reminiscent of a switchboard.

The New York Times - Science

It means that your self is a very complex pattern of synaptic connectivity in your brain.

The New York Times - Health

However, that was only one part of a complex pattern of switching taking place, Bryant said.

The Guardian

A complex pattern might require as many as 20,000 cards.

The New York Times

Signals jump frequencies in a complex pattern to foil any eavesdropping on your network.

The New York Times - Tech

For the lateral direction a more complex pattern was found.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing data or systems, use "complex pattern" to indicate non-obvious or intricate relationships between elements.

Common error

Avoid using "complex pattern" when a simpler descriptor like "pattern" or "design" would suffice. Overusing complex terms can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex pattern" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and versatile, as seen in examples describing intricate designs or relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complex pattern" is a grammatically sound and versatile noun phrase widely used across diverse contexts to describe intricate designs or relationships. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans from scientific research to news reports. It's especially prevalent in science and news media, making it suitable for formal and neutral registers. When choosing an alternative, consider "intricate design", "complicated arrangement" or "sophisticated structure" to enhance clarity and precision, depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate design

Focuses specifically on the visual aspect of the pattern, emphasizing detail.

complicated arrangement

Emphasizes the structured nature of the pattern, highlighting its non-straightforward organization.

sophisticated structure

Highlights the advanced and refined nature of the pattern's construction.

elaborate formation

Suggests a pattern that has been developed with great care and detail.

involved configuration

Emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of elements within the pattern.

multifaceted scheme

Highlights the multiple aspects and layers present in the pattern.

nuanced system

Emphasizes the subtle variations and delicate characteristics within the pattern.

convoluted web

Suggests a pattern that is intricate and potentially difficult to follow.

tangled network

Emphasizes the interconnectedness and potential confusion within the pattern.

labyrinthine layout

Conveys a pattern that is complex and maze-like in its design.

FAQs

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

You can use "complex pattern" to describe something with many interconnected parts or an intricate design. For example, "The data revealed a "complex pattern" of interactions between the variables."

What are some alternatives to "complex pattern"?

Alternatives include "intricate design", "complicated arrangement", or "sophisticated structure", depending on the specific context.

Is "complex pattern" formal or informal?

"Complex pattern" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, though it's more common in academic, scientific, and news contexts. Its appropriateness depends on the overall tone and audience.

What is the difference between "complex pattern" and "difficult pattern"?

"Complex pattern" refers to intricacy and multiple interconnected elements, while "difficult pattern" implies a pattern that is hard to understand, replicate, or solve. "Complex pattern" focuses on structure, while "difficult pattern" emphasizes the challenge it presents.