elaborate undertaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elaborate undertaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complex or detailed project or task that requires significant effort and planning. Example: "The construction of the new bridge was an elaborate undertaking that involved multiple stakeholders and extensive engineering work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It's an elaborate undertaking.

The New York Times

So credit Mr. Rubenfeld with a smart, jocular approach to an elaborate undertaking.

The New York Times - Books

It is not an overstatement to call City the most elaborate undertaking ever by an American artist.

The Guardian - Arts

So Daft Punk's ubiquitous helmets don't exactly allow for blending in with the crowd, but we couldn't help but highlight this elaborate undertaking from Harrison Krix (that was actually commissioned by Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo himself), which took a full 17 months to actualize.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Their caper, which involves breaking into the Montreal customs house to steal a jewel-encrusted gold scepter, is an apt metaphor for the movie itself: a meticulous and elaborate logistical undertaking with no discernible purpose other than a big payoff.

The New York Times

Their caper, which involves breaking into the Montreal customs house to steal a jewel-encrusted gold scepter, is an apt metaphor for the movie itself -- a meticulous and elaborate logistical undertaking with no discernible purpose other than a big payoff (Scott).

The New York Times

Until recently, though, its elaborate preparations were undertaken only to mark some special occasion.

The New York Times - Travel

He retained his taste for working in wood and undertook elaborate carving projects, such as the construction of a violin from an orange crate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the universities, the new campuses also represent one of the most elaborate experiments yet undertaken in so-called distance learning -- the use of the Internet to teach classes.

The New York Times

Despite the elaborate consultative process undertaken prior to introducing the amendment Bill in Parliament, the Standing Committee advised the Ministry of Coal to carry out another round of discussions with the States.

The New York Times

Elaborate national surveys were undertaken only in certain countries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "elaborate undertaking", ensure the context clearly indicates the complexity and the significant effort involved. For example, use it when describing a project with many stages, intricate details, and numerous resources.

Common error

Avoid using "elaborate undertaking" for tasks that are relatively simple or straightforward. Overusing it can make your writing sound pretentious or exaggerate the actual complexity of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elaborate undertaking" functions as a noun phrase, where 'elaborate' modifies 'undertaking'. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, indicating it describes something complex and detailed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "elaborate undertaking" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for describing complex and detailed projects. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's essential to consider its relatively low frequency and choose appropriate contexts. The phrase is commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources. Consider alternatives like "complex endeavor" or "detailed project", and avoid overusing it in simple situations. Use "elaborate undertaking" to denote sophistication, planning, and significant effort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex endeavor

Focuses on the complexity and effort involved, similar to "elaborate undertaking".

detailed project

Highlights the level of detail and planning required.

intricate task

Emphasizes the complex and interwoven nature of the work.

complicated operation

Implies a structured and potentially risky activity.

sophisticated scheme

Suggests a refined and well-thought-out plan, often with a specific goal.

demanding enterprise

Highlights the challenging and effort-intensive nature of the activity.

involved procedure

Focuses on the multiple steps and complexities of the process.

extensive activity

Emphasizes the broad scope and scale of the work.

thorough process

Highlights the careful and comprehensive nature of the undertaking.

significant initiative

Emphasizes the importance and potential impact of the undertaking.

FAQs

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

You can use "elaborate undertaking" to describe a complex project or task that requires significant planning and effort. For instance, "The construction of the new research facility was an elaborate undertaking."

What are some alternatives to "elaborate undertaking"?

Alternatives include "complex endeavor", "detailed project", or "intricate task". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "elaborate undertaking" formal or informal?

"Elaborate undertaking" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the overall tone of your writing than the specific situation.

What makes an undertaking "elaborate"?

An undertaking is "elaborate" when it involves many steps, intricate details, significant resources, and careful planning. It's more than just a simple or routine task.