extravagant complexity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extravagant complexity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is overly intricate or elaborate, often in a negative or critical context. Example: "The design of the new software was criticized for its extravagant complexity, making it difficult for users to navigate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

While I remain proud of the research that went into the piece — parts of it reappeared in my book "The Rest Is Noise" — I'm not sure I fully came to terms with the extravagant complexity of Wagner's musical, emotional, social, and political worlds.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Yet rather than streamline their approach for maximum efficiency, Healy and his bandmates — guitarist Adam Hann, bassist Ross MacDonald and drummer George Daniel — have only added wrinkles for the new album, which advertises its complexity with its extravagant title: "I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware of It".

Los Angeles Times

Some examples of Complexity include 'simple, intricate, detailed' (positive) and 'ornate, extravagant, unclear, plain' (negative)'.

Functional Linguistics

Rarely extravagant.

The New Yorker

Nothing extravagant.

The New York Times

Bit extravagant.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They are not extravagant.

The Economist

It suggests that the extravagant claims under the old system have waned, but MPs said that they were also being put off making legitimate claims by the complexity of the system and public suspicion.

The Guardian

First, complexity.

The Economist

It encourages extravagant health spending.

The New York Times

But "extravagant display" is misleading.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extravagant complexity", ensure that the context clearly indicates that the complexity is not only high in degree but also unnecessary or excessive. For example, describe the negative consequences of this complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "extravagant complexity" to describe something beneficial. The term implies that the complexity is unnecessary or wasteful. Instead, opt for terms like "remarkable sophistication" or "impressive intricacy" when describing something positive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extravagant complexity" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "extravagant" modifies the noun "complexity". This construction typically serves to describe something as excessively or unnecessarily intricate, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis of its usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extravagant complexity" is a phrase used to describe something as excessively or unnecessarily intricate, often with a negative connotation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage primarily in news and media contexts. While it's a relatively rare expression, understanding its implications is crucial for effective communication. When opting to use this term, be sure to convey your intended sentiment clearly, considering alternative phrases like "undue complexity" or "excessive intricacy" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undue complexity

Replaces "extravagant" with "undue", emphasizing inappropriateness or excessiveness.

inordinate complexity

Substitutes "extravagant" with "inordinate", indicating an excessive degree.

excessive intricacy

Replaces both words with synonyms, focusing on the high level of detail.

unnecessary complication

Emphasizes the lack of need for such complexity.

overwrought intricacy

Highlights the excessive nature of the detail.

needless elaboration

Focuses on the idea that the complexity is not required or beneficial.

over-the-top sophistication

Suggests the complexity is presented in an exaggerated manner.

gratuitous complication

Highlights that the complexity is uncalled for.

baroque complexity

Uses "baroque" to describe the excessive ornamentation and detail.

ornate complexity

Focuses on the elaborate and decorative nature of the complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "extravagant complexity" in a sentence?

You can use "extravagant complexity" to describe something that is unnecessarily complicated or elaborate. For example: "The project failed due to its "extravagant complexity"."

What's a good alternative to "extravagant complexity"?

Alternatives include "undue complexity", "inordinate complexity", or "excessive intricacy", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "extravagant complexity" positive or negative?

"Extravagant complexity" typically carries a negative connotation, suggesting that something is unnecessarily complicated or elaborate. It implies a wasteful or excessive degree of intricacy.

What is the difference between "extravagant complexity" and "high complexity"?

"High complexity" simply describes a state of being very complex. "Extravagant complexity", on the other hand, implies that the complexity is excessive, unnecessary, and perhaps even wasteful. The added word "extravagant" adds a layer of critique.