complex phase

USAGE SUMMARY

"complex phase" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time which is characterized by a set of complicated or interrelated conditions. For example, "This year has been a particularly complex phase for businesses, with constant shifts in the global economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As the American military campaign shifts to the south, the operation has entered a far more complex phase.

The New York Times

Either way, Americans are about to enter a complex phase of the war that is the very antithesis of the lightning campaign they have waged so far.

The New York Times

An ungainly, propeller-driven craft that flies as slowly as 80 miles per hour and is operated by remote control, the RQ-1 Predator has nonetheless proved a formidable weapon as the war enters its most complex phase: the hunt for the leadership of Al Qaeda and the Taliban.

The New York Times

A complex phase multiplication requires six FLOPs.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

These systems show a complex phase behavior.

Journal of Molecular Liquids

They reveal complex phase transformation behavior.

Acta Materialia

b Complex phase of admittance between FGAs and topography.

Earth, Planets and Space

Second, the complex phase encodes the signal location.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

We find that lithium ions insertion triggers complex phase transformations.

Nano Energy

This complex phase may need stratification of he measures.

Revista Clínica Española

Complex phase transformation reactions occurred in the aluminide layer.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complex phase", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the phase complex. Providing specific details or examples will enhance clarity and prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "complex phase" as a generic descriptor for anything difficult. Instead, pinpoint the specific aspects that contribute to the complexity, such as multiple interacting factors, intricate dependencies, or a high degree of uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex phase" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "phase". It typically describes a specific period, stage, or state that is characterized by intricate, multifaceted, or challenging aspects. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

84%

News & Media

11%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complex phase" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, predominantly found in scientific and technical contexts. According to Ludwig, it effectively describes a period or stage marked by intricate, multifaceted, or challenging elements. While interchangeable with terms like "complicated stage" or "challenging period", the nuances of each term depend on the specific context. Remember to clarify what makes the phase complex to avoid overgeneralization. With its high frequency across reputable sources, the phrase is a valuable tool for precise and nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complicated stage

Replaces "complex" with "complicated", emphasizing the difficulty involved in the stage.

intricate period

Substitutes "complex" with "intricate" and "phase" with "period", highlighting the detailed and elaborate nature of the timeframe.

difficult stage

Emphasizes the challenging aspect of the phase by using the adjective "difficult".

challenging period

Replaces both words with synonyms focusing on the demanding nature of the time.

multifaceted element

Shifts focus to a component with many aspects, rather than a period, changing the context slightly.

elaborate phase

Uses "elaborate" instead of "complex", emphasizing the detailed and intricate nature of the phase.

involved stage

Focuses on the intricate connections and implications present in the stage.

convoluted situation

Substitutes the phrase with something emphasizing the confusing and complicated arrangement of a situation.

sophisticated stage

Replaces "complex" with "sophisticated" to highlight the advanced or refined nature of the stage.

advanced period

Focuses on the progressed or developed aspect of the timeframe.

FAQs

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

You can use "complex phase" to describe a period or stage characterized by multiple interacting factors or intricate processes. For example: "The project entered a "complex phase" due to unforeseen regulatory hurdles".

What are some alternatives to "complex phase"?

Alternatives include "complicated stage", "intricate period", or "challenging period", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

Both "complex phase" and "complicated phase" are grammatically correct, but "complex" often implies a higher degree of interconnectedness and multifaceted elements, while "complicated" can simply refer to difficulty. Choose the term that best reflects the nature of the phase you're describing.

In scientific contexts, what does "complex phase" typically refer to?

In scientific contexts, "complex phase" often refers to systems or materials exhibiting intricate behaviors or structures. This could involve "complex phase behavior" in chemistry or physics, where multiple phases interact in non-trivial ways.