complex times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex times" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe periods of difficulty, uncertainty, or challenges in various contexts, such as social, economic, or personal situations. Example: "We are living in complex times, where navigating relationships and work-life balance has become increasingly challenging."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Complex times need complex responses.

The Guardian

But he said Sharon lived in "complex times".

The Guardian

White makes a diligent, often delightful, stab at rendering complex subjects and complex times comprehensible.

The Guardian - Books

But there are two problems with this: First, these benefits disappear during difficult and complex times.

Harvard Business Review

It is because of meritocracy that America's leaders are better equipped to navigate these complex times.

The New York Times

In these difficult, complex times, we are fortunate to have Mr. Obama in the White House.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

It was a complex time to assume the directorship.

The Guardian

Teenage years are an exciting but complex time for beauty.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Christmas' work examines a complex place at a complex time.

Harvard University

The morning attack occurred at a complex time for Iran.

The New York Times

These techniques are complex, time consuming and have accuracy limitations.

Journal of Microbiological Methods

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complex times", provide context to specify which complexities you are referring to, whether they are political, economic, social, or personal. This adds clarity and relevance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "complex times" as a vague, catch-all phrase. Instead, be specific about the challenges and complexities involved. For example, instead of saying "In these complex times, we must be vigilant", try "Given the current economic uncertainties, we must be fiscally responsible."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex times" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "times". It describes a period characterized by intricate, multifaceted, and often challenging circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and frequently used across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complex times" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to describe periods characterized by multifaceted challenges and uncertainties. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to provide context to specify the nature of the complexities involved. Alternatives like "challenging period" or "difficult era" can be used to emphasize specific aspects of the situation. Primarily found in News & Media and Academic sources, "complex times" serves to set the stage for discussing solutions and adaptations in the face of these intricate challenges, making it a relevant and valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging period

Focuses on the difficulty aspect, replacing "complex" with "challenging" and "times" with "period".

difficult era

Emphasizes the hardship associated with the time, substituting "complex" with "difficult" and "times" with "era".

complicated circumstances

Shifts the focus to the circumstances themselves, rather than the time, using "complicated" as a synonym for "complex".

turbulent days

Highlights the instability and unrest, replacing "complex" with "turbulent" and "times" with "days".

unsettled age

Focuses on the lack of stability, replacing "complex" with "unsettled" and "times" with "age".

eventful moment

Emphasizes the significance and packed nature of a specific moment, rather than an extended period.

intricate situation

Highlights the interwoven and detailed nature of the situation, rather than the time period.

critical juncture

Focuses on the importance and potential consequences of the present moment, replacing "complex" with "critical" and "times" with "juncture".

demanding phase

Emphasizes the high requirements and pressures of a specific phase, rather than a broad time period.

precarious moment

Focuses on the instability and risk associated with the current moment.

FAQs

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

You can use "complex times" to describe a period marked by difficulty, uncertainty, or multifaceted challenges. For example: "In these "complex times", adaptability is crucial for success."

What can I say instead of "complex times"?

Alternatives include "challenging period", "difficult era", or "complicated circumstances", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "complex times"?

Yes, "complex times" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

What makes "complex times" different from "difficult times"?

"Complex times" emphasizes the multifaceted nature and intricate challenges of a period, while "difficult times" primarily highlights the hardship and adversity involved. Therefore, use "complex times" when you want to convey the nuanced and complicated aspects of a situation, rather than just its difficulty.