complicated procedure

USAGE SUMMARY

"complicated procedure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing a process that is difficult to understand or follow, such as a complicated legal procedure or a difficult chemical synthesis. For example: "The procedure for filing a tax return in this country is quite complicated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You will be given expert assistance by the banks, who can make this seemingly complicated procedure a nice, simple one.

WikiHow

It is a complicated procedure that is subject to various complications.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

It is not a complicated procedure.

The New York Times

He described waterboarding as, "not a very complicated procedure.

The Guardian - Opinion

Egg freezing is not a complicated procedure, but it is time-consuming.

The Guardian

Counting the multipage ballots for Parliament and provincial councils will be a lengthy and complicated procedure.

The New York Times

Mr. Jackson explained the complicated procedure of reading pressure gauges on a pumper truck.

The New York Times

It is actually a somewhat complicated procedure, so let's start from the beginning.

Cornell University

This being fancy restaurant food, I was mentally poised for a complicated procedure.

The New York Times - Food

"It is a very complicated procedure," said Lorenz Wolf, judicial vicar of the archdiocese in Munich.

The New York Times

The somewhat complicated procedure involves two oral requests and a written one, extensive discussions, and approval by two physicians.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, specify which aspects make the "complicated procedure" difficult to manage or understand. For example, instead of 'The installation process is a complicated procedure', write 'The installation process is a complicated procedure due to the multiple software dependencies involved'.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "complicated procedure" without providing context. Simply stating something is a "complicated procedure" does not offer any insight. Instead, detail the specific elements that contribute to the complexity. Readers will understand that you are capable of not only identifying it is a "complicated procedure", but also know the intricacies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complicated procedure" primarily functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'complicated' modifies the noun 'procedure'. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It describes a process that is not straightforward.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complicated procedure" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that describes processes that are not straightforward. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various domains, particularly in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, it's best to provide specific details about what makes the procedure complicated to enhance clarity. Consider using related phrases like "complex process" or "intricate method" for nuanced expression. Avoid vague use of "complicated procedure" without context. The phrase is suitable for neutral register and is often found in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex process

Replaces "procedure" with "process", emphasizing the series of actions rather than the formal method.

intricate method

Substitutes "complicated" with "intricate" and "procedure" with "method", highlighting the detailed and elaborate nature.

difficult operation

Emphasizes the challenge by using "difficult" instead of "complicated" and frames it as an "operation".

challenging task

Focuses on the difficulty by calling it a "challenging task", suitable when the procedure is seen as a goal-oriented activity.

involved undertaking

Highlights the level of engagement and resources needed, using "involved" and "undertaking".

elaborate scheme

Implies a careful arrangement of details, potentially with a hint of planning or strategy.

convoluted methodology

Replaces "procedure" with "methodology" and uses "convoluted" to suggest a complex and potentially confusing approach.

knotty situation

Describes the procedure as a difficult situation, implying it's problematic.

demanding course of action

Highlights the requirements needed to complete it.

Byzantine process

Evokes a sense of extreme complexity and secretiveness, often associated with bureaucracy.

FAQs

How can I describe something similar to a "complicated procedure" in simpler terms?

Consider using terms like "complex process", "intricate method", or "difficult operation" depending on the specific context. These alternatives, such as "complex process", provide nuanced ways to express the same idea.

What makes a procedure 'complicated'?

A procedure may be considered "complicated" due to numerous steps, intricate details, multiple dependencies, or a high degree of specialized knowledge required. The term indicates a level of difficulty beyond a simple or straightforward process.

Is it better to say 'complex procedure' or "complicated procedure"?

Both 'complex procedure' and "complicated procedure" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. 'Complex' may imply a greater degree of inherent intricacy, while 'complicated' might suggest added layers of difficulty. Depending on the context, you can use one of them or you can also use alternatives like "tricky procedure".

Can "complicated procedure" refer to medical processes?

Yes, "complicated procedure" is often used in medical contexts to describe surgeries, treatments, or diagnostic processes that are intricate, high-risk, or require specialized skills. It's also suitable for describing administrative or legal processes.