complicated between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complicated between" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to describe a situation that is complex or difficult involving two or more parties or elements, but the phrasing is awkward. Example: "The negotiations were complicated between the two countries, leading to misunderstandings."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

And things get complicated between them after Boyd's brother, Bowman, is shot by Bowman's wife, Ava.

The New York Times - Books

"Ueli's plan would have brought us closer," says Cool, "but while the altitude is lower, the horseshoe gets very complicated between Lhotse and Nuptse".

The Guardian

Things got pretty complicated between William Collins Jackson and his son, as Dr Nicola Phillips of the University of London discovered during her research.

The Guardian

When my grandmother was alive, and we were speaking -- things were complicated between us as well -- I would send her a Mother's Day card, as I did an aunt who mothered me, and a friend who had taken the role of mother for many years.

Huffington Post

Meanwhile, gene-gene interaction often combine with genetic and environmental factors, and make the observed difference even more complicated between different ethnic groups.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A fourth limitation is that saliva and urine were collected using different materials (swabs vs. filter paper), which complicated between-fluid comparisons because urine had a higher limit of detection.

BMC Infectious Diseases

However, several factors unrelated to baseline neuronal activity may complicate between-region comparisons of MEMRI data (e.g. differences in myelination, proximity to ventricular space).

Plosone

Second, the nine study designs differed widely, complicating between-study comparisons.

BMC Psychiatry

It can be seen from the above that several issues can complicate between-study comparisons, best exemplified from the neoplasia section.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

Generally, register data are designed according to the criteria for sickness absence set by a country's social security system, which can complicate between-country comparisons [ 11].

Human Resources for Health

This disorder complicates between 2% and 7% of gestations and is associated with a high maternal morbidity ranging between 1% and 4%.

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "complicated between" as it's grammatically awkward. Opt for clearer alternatives like "complicated relationship between" or "complex interaction between" to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

Common error

Do not confuse "complicated between" with grammatically sound phrases such as "relationship between". While 'between' necessitates multiple parties or things, 'complicated' needs a clear subject, like 'relationship' or 'interaction'. Always specify what exactly is complicated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complicated between" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase attempting to describe a complex relationship or interaction. However, according to Ludwig AI, this construction is grammatically incorrect. A correct formulation would include a noun, such as "complicated relationship between**" or "complicated interaction between".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complicated between" is generally considered grammatically incorrect and unclear. Ludwig AI confirms its awkward construction. While it appears in some contexts, such as news and scientific articles, it is advisable to avoid it in formal writing. Instead, opt for clearer alternatives like "complicated relationship between" or "complex interaction between" to ensure precision and enhance the credibility of your writing. These alternatives specify what exactly is complicated, making the sentence grammatically sound and easy to understand. Always aim for clarity to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complicated relationship between

Explicitly states the relationship involved, emphasizing its complexity.

complex relationship

Focuses on the intricate connection rather than the complication arising in the middle.

difficult interaction

Highlights the challenging nature of the interplay, emphasizing the effort required.

intricate dynamics

Emphasizes the interwoven and complex forces at play, shifting the focus from mere complication.

complex interplay

Stresses the mutual influence and complex actions occurring, rather than a singular complication.

complexities in

Shifts the focus to the inherent complexities within a situation or system.

challenges in coordinating

Highlights the specific difficulties of coordination among entities.

difficulties in reconciling

Focuses on the struggles to harmonize conflicting elements.

problems arising from

Pinpoints the emergence of issues due to a particular factor.

entanglement of

Implies a confusing and complex connection, moving beyond a simple complication.

FAQs

What's wrong with the phrase "complicated between"?

The phrase "complicated between" is grammatically incorrect and unclear. It lacks a noun to describe what is "complicated". It's better to use phrases like "complicated relationship between" or "complex interactions between".

How can I use "complicated relationship between" in a sentence?

You can say, "The "complicated relationship between" the two companies made negotiations difficult".

What are some alternatives to "complicated between"?

Consider using phrases like "complex relationship", "difficult interaction", or "intricate dynamics" depending on the specific context.

Is "complicated between" ever correct?

While some sources use "complicated between", it's generally considered grammatically awkward. Clearer alternatives exist, so it's best to avoid this phrasing in formal writing.