complicated look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complicated look" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a facial expression that communicates a complex range of emotions. For example, "He glanced at her with a complicated look of longing and anger on his face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The show led off with "I Feel Pretty," a funny, dry, complicated look into the mirror.

The New York Times - Arts

Obviously, it's complicated; look at the Uighurs, who are not even listed as enemy combatants but who might be persecuted in China.

The New Yorker

(It worked for Castro, in the opposite direction, in the Mariel boat lift). Obviously, it's complicated; look at the Uighurs, who are not even listed as enemy combatants but who might be persecuted in China.

The New Yorker

In the spirit of making complicated look clean is the Patek 3939H minute repeater tourbillon if it weren't for the repeater slide in the case band and the almost invisible "tourbillon" on the dial, you probably wouldn't take it for a complicated watch at all.

Forbes

Not that I looked old, but I had a complicated look.

The Guardian - Film

(May and Turing exchange a complicated look. May's hands flutter at her sides).

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Sounds complicated; looked beautiful.

The New York Times

I watch the N.F.L., and it looks like there are less complicated looks than we see in the SEC".

The New York Times - Sports

Van Oldebarneveltstraat 123A; 011-31-6-511-503-90. 7. Prague Louis Dijksman stocks his store with complicated looks from European designers like Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester and Haider Ackerman as well as obscure Japanese labels.

The New York Times

As the smiler with the wife, Mr. Hopkins's Ted Crawford does something complicated looking with airplanes, barks monosyllabic instructions at underlings ("No!") and leaves the world choking on his Porche-churned dust.

The New York Times

This week, the government came up with proposals to reform the finances of local councils, which, though impenetrably complicated, looked like heralding a big shift of resources from the prosperous shire counties and London boroughs to poorer towns in the midlands and the north.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complicated look" to describe something that appears complex or difficult to understand at first glance, but might have underlying simplicity. It can be applied to designs, systems, or even facial expressions.

Common error

Avoid using "complicated look" when something is not just seemingly complex, but genuinely intricate and challenging to grasp. In such cases, opt for terms like "inherently complex" or "profoundly intricate" to accurately convey the depth of the complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complicated look" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI indicates its correct grammatical status. The term serves to characterize something—be it an object, a design, or an expression—as having an appearance of complexity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complicated look" is deemed grammatically correct by Ludwig AI and serves to describe something that initially seems complex or difficult to understand. Its usage is relatively uncommon, primarily found in News & Media and Wiki sources. While appropriate in many contexts, more precise terms might be necessary for scientific or technical writing. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the seeming complexity and isn't used when something is inherently difficult. For alternatives, consider "complex appearance" or "intricate design" for greater specificity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex appearance

Replaces "look" with "appearance", emphasizing the visual aspect of being complex.

intricate design

Shifts the focus to the detailed and elaborate nature of the design itself.

convoluted aspect

Uses "convoluted" to highlight the intricate and difficult-to-follow nature of the aspect.

inscrutable expression

Focuses on a facial expression that is difficult or impossible to interpret.

multi-layered presentation

Emphasizes the many levels or aspects contributing to the complexity.

elaborate facade

Implies a deliberately complex outward appearance, potentially concealing something simpler.

perplexing facade

Emphasizes the confusing and puzzling nature of the external appearance.

difficult visage

Highlights the challenging or troubled nature of the facial appearance.

Byzantine structure

Evokes a sense of ornate complexity and difficulty in understanding.

enigmatic mien

Uses "mien" to suggest a mysterious and puzzling demeanor.

FAQs

How can I describe a facial expression that shows mixed emotions instead of using "complicated look"?

You can use alternatives like "inscrutable expression", "a mixture of longing and regret", or "a face etched with conflicting feelings".

Is it appropriate to use "complicated look" in formal writing?

Yes, "complicated look" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider more precise synonyms like "complex appearance" or "intricate design" if greater specificity is needed.

What does it mean when someone has a "complicated look" on their face?

A "complicated look" suggests the person is experiencing a mix of emotions or is deep in thought, making their feelings difficult to decipher at first glance. It could imply internal conflict or a struggle to understand a situation.

How can I make something that has a "complicated look" appear simpler?

To simplify something with a "complicated look", focus on breaking it down into smaller, more manageable components. Clear labeling, intuitive design, and step-by-step instructions can also reduce the perceived complexity.