convoluted sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

'convoluted sentence' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a sentence that is overly complex and difficult to understand due to its structure, syntax, or length. For example, "The intricate and convoluted sentence, composed of a multitude of clauses and phrases, made the reader's comprehension of its meaning almost impossible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Avoiding controversy does not explain, for example, this carefully convoluted sentence Ms. Miers wrote in a September 1992 column: "We have to understand and appreciate that achieving justice for all is in jeopardy before a call to arms to assist in obtaining support for the justice system will be effective".

The New York Times

This convoluted sentence runs off track; the dashes are misplaced.

The New York Times

The long, convoluted sentence may have thrown us off track.

The New York Times

Often the enemy is a convoluted sentence that leaves reader and writer alike confused about what goes with what.

The New York Times

What's more, the disclosures often remain "impenetrable at any length" due to "legal jargon without clarification and convoluted sentence structure," the report found.

The New York Times

Or maybe you're smart enough to pack it in after a couple of chapters of ripe prose, tortured metaphors and convoluted sentence construction.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

These two long, convoluted sentences, one after the other, make for awfully tough reading.

The New York Times

In many cases, sharper and less convoluted sentences would keep us on track.

The New York Times

"There are no convoluted sentences in August's heart-rending speeches -- they are absolutely mind-altering," Mr. Brown said.

The New York Times

Even as a student at Hofstra Law School years ago, Mr. Burton was frustrated by the convoluted sentences lawyers use.

The New York Times

Germans like to make a point clear, experts say, though this seems often to call for protracted, convoluted sentences with multiple subordinate clauses that are inimical to microblogging.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When revising your writing, identify and simplify any "convoluted sentences". Break them down into shorter, more manageable clauses for improved clarity.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice excessively, as it can lead to "convoluted sentences" that obscure the subject and make the writing difficult to follow. Instead, opt for active voice to create clearer and more direct statements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "convoluted sentence" functions as a descriptor, typically used to characterize a sentence that is unnecessarily complex and difficult to understand. Ludwig examples, like the one describing Ms. Miers' writing, showcase its use in critique.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "convoluted sentence" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it serves to describe sentences that are overly complex and difficult to understand. Its purpose is often to criticize or highlight a lack of clarity in writing. To improve your writing, simplify "convoluted sentences" by breaking them down into shorter clauses and avoiding passive voice. Consider alternatives like "complex sentence" or "confusing sentence" for slight variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex sentence

Focuses on the complexity of the sentence, without necessarily implying it's hard to understand.

involuted sentence

Similar to convoluted, but slightly less common in usage.

intricate sentence

Highlights the detailed and elaborate nature of the sentence.

unclear sentence

Emphasizes the lack of clarity in the sentence.

confusing sentence

Focuses on the sentence's ability to cause confusion.

tangled sentence

Suggests the sentence is messy and difficult to follow.

rambling sentence

Implies the sentence goes on for too long and lacks focus.

tortuous sentence

Emphasizes the difficulty in navigating the sentence's structure.

muddled sentence

Highlights the lack of clear organization in the sentence.

opaque sentence

Suggests the sentence is difficult to see through or understand.

FAQs

How can I identify a "convoluted sentence" in my writing?

Look for sentences that are excessively long, contain multiple clauses, or use complex vocabulary unnecessarily. If you find yourself rereading a sentence multiple times to understand it, it's likely a "convoluted sentence".

What are some alternatives to "convoluted sentence"?

You can use alternatives like "complex sentence", "confusing sentence", or "intricate sentence" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Why is it important to avoid "convoluted sentences" in writing?

Avoiding "convoluted sentences" enhances clarity and improves reader comprehension. Clear and concise writing is essential for effective communication, whether in academic, professional, or creative contexts.

What causes a sentence to become "convoluted"?

A sentence can become "convoluted" due to overuse of subordinate clauses, passive voice, unnecessary jargon, or a lack of clear structure. Careful revision and attention to sentence construction can help prevent this.