exceptionally complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceptionally complex" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is very intricate or difficult to understand, often in academic or technical contexts. Example: "The mathematical theories presented in the lecture were exceptionally complex, requiring a deep understanding of advanced calculus."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Governance is exceptionally complex in health systems.

Stanford University

How to proceed in Afghanistan presents an exceptionally complex challenge.

The Guardian - Opinion

This sounds utopian – and it certainly would be exceptionally complex to negotiate and implement.

The Guardian

The first is that Mr. Obama addressed an exceptionally complex issue with honesty and forthrightness.

The New York Times

Mr. Andersen's bursts of solo dancing and exceptionally complex partnering is on the same level.

The New York Times - Arts

Wilson was an exceptionally complex tangle of admirable and disagreeable qualities.

The Washington Post

This allowed Cornforth to detail the biosynthesis of cholesterol, an exceptionally complex molecule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The situation with the Guantánamo detention facility is exceptionally complex and releasing any records will further complicate ongoing actions".

The Guardian

Its perpendicular, lateral position makes more room for the large, exceptionally complex movement that drives the three-speed watch.

The New York Times

Those advocating we leave – including the government – are seeking to present exceptionally complex issues as simple binary choices.

The Guardian - Opinion

Susan Landau has taken an exceptionally complex but vital subject and presented it in a clear and compelling way.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exceptionally complex", ensure the context provides specific examples of the complexity you are describing to enhance clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "exceptionally complex" when describing something that is only mildly complicated. This diminishes the impact of the phrase and can make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceptionally complex" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It intensifies the complexity of the noun it describes. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

41%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exceptionally complex" is a grammatically correct and widely used adjective phrase that signifies a very high degree of intricacy or difficulty. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for formal and technical contexts. While its meaning is straightforward, it's crucial to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the described subject genuinely warrants such a strong descriptor. Alternatives like "highly intricate" or "remarkably complicated" may be more appropriate in some cases. The phrase is most frequently found in news, media, scientific, and academic sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly intricate

Emphasizes the detailed and elaborate nature of something, shifting focus from difficulty to design.

remarkably complicated

Highlights the level of complication, differing in intensity while retaining similar meaning.

profoundly convoluted

Implies a more tangled and difficult-to-follow complexity.

extraordinarily involved

Suggests a complexity arising from many elements being connected or included.

uncommonly sophisticated

Indicates complexity derived from advanced design or development.

incredibly elaborate

Stresses the painstaking detail and artistry contributing to complexity.

decidedly perplexing

Focuses on the confusion and difficulty in understanding that arises from complexity.

unusually detailed

Highlights the presence of a great number of details, leading to complexity.

singularly knotty

Uses a metaphorical comparison to a knot, emphasizing difficulty in resolving or understanding.

particularly nuanced

Emphasizes the subtle distinctions and layers that contribute to the complexity.

FAQs

What does "exceptionally complex" mean?

The phrase "exceptionally complex" means something is far more intricate or difficult to understand than is typical. It suggests a high degree of complication.

How can I use "exceptionally complex" in a sentence?

You can use "exceptionally complex" to describe intricate processes, difficult problems, or sophisticated systems. For instance, "The algorithm used by the software is "exceptionally complex"".

Are there alternatives to "exceptionally complex"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "highly intricate", "remarkably complicated", or "profoundly convoluted" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "exceptionally complex" formal or informal?

"Exceptionally complex" is suitable for formal and academic writing. In informal contexts, you might prefer simpler phrases like "really complicated" or "very tricky".