elaborate design

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elaborate design" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a design that is intricate, detailed, or complex, often in contexts related to art, architecture, or product development. Example: "The architect presented an elaborate design for the new museum, featuring intricate patterns and innovative structures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a novel of elaborate design.

The Guardian - Books

The elaborate design of animal signals is challenging to explain.

Animal Behaviour

ELABORATE DESIGN Decorative elements on older buildings could collapse during a quake.

The New York Times

After World War I, however, money was scarce and their elaborate design was abandoned.

The New York Times

"It's nice if you can own a Cadillac," Mr. Ostop said of the more elaborate design.

The New York Times

Ken Worpole, of the Clissold Users Groupp, said many preferred a less elaborate design.

The Guardian

According to Mrs. Brocklebank, the cornucopia was the most elaborate design she ever made.

The New York Times

According to the engineers' elaborate design, water would flow from the aqueduct into a reservoir in Yonkers.

The New Yorker

These scribal doodles eventually became elaborate design elements, leading the way to Irish masterpieces like the Book of Kells.

The New York Times

The most elaborate design creations in the central desert area were the settings devised for totemic rituals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its elaborate design keeps it upright even on rocky ground, and it is very difficult to knock over.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a design, specify what makes it "elaborate". For example, mention the intricate details, the complexity of its components, or the level of ornamentation involved.

Common error

Avoid using "elaborate design" as a generic descriptor. Instead, provide specific details about the design's complexity or features to justify its description as "elaborate". For instance, instead of just stating that a building has an "elaborate design", describe the specific architectural elements that contribute to its complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elaborate design" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "elaborate" modifies the noun "design". Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is used to describe something that is detailed and complex in its planning and execution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "elaborate design" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe intricate and detailed plans or structures. As Ludwig AI points out, it effectively conveys complexity and often admiration for the skill involved. Usage is varied across news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, making it a versatile choice. When using the phrase, ensure that the context justifies the description by providing specific details about the design's complexities. Alternatives such as "intricate design" or "complex design" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate pattern

Focuses on the complexity of the visual arrangement rather than the overall plan.

complex scheme

Emphasizes the complicated nature of the underlying system or arrangement.

detailed layout

Highlights the precision and thoroughness of the arrangement.

sophisticated blueprint

Suggests a high level of refinement and technical skill in the plan.

ornate composition

Specifically refers to a decorative and elaborate arrangement.

meticulous plan

Highlights the care and attention to detail in the planning process.

thorough construction

Focuses on the complete and detailed nature of the build itself.

artistic creation

Emphasizes the creative and aesthetic aspect of the design.

fancy styling

Suggests a design that is decorative and perhaps somewhat extravagant.

decorative motif

Focuses on a recurring element within a design, often for aesthetic purposes.

FAQs

How can I use "elaborate design" in a sentence?

You can use "elaborate design" to describe anything that is intricate and detailed in its planning or execution. For instance, "The museum features an elaborate design with multiple levels and hidden passages."

What are some alternatives to "elaborate design"?

Alternatives include "intricate design", "complex design", or "detailed design" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it better to say "elaborate design" or "detailed design"?

"Elaborate design" suggests a high degree of complexity and ornamentation, while "detailed design" simply indicates that the design includes many specifics. The best choice depends on the context and what you want to emphasize.

What kind of designs are typically described as having an "elaborate design"?

Architectural plans, costumes, and graphical user interfaces often have "elaborate designs". This is because they frequently have very complex detailing and the design involves many elements and layers.