gradually convoluted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually convoluted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or situation that becomes increasingly complex over time. Example: "The plot of the novel became gradually convoluted, making it difficult for readers to follow the storyline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Remember "convoluted"?

The New York Times

The nomenclature is convoluted.

The New Yorker

It's convoluted.

The Guardian

I know this is convoluted.

The New York Times

These deals were really convoluted".

The New Yorker

Are the rules convoluted?

The New York Times - Sports

"It's so convoluted".

The New Yorker

It's very convoluted".

The Guardian - Film

The story has been convoluted.

The New York Times

This puzzle is particularly convoluted.

The New York Times - Science

Sure, it's convoluted and sneaky.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes or narratives, use "gradually convoluted" to emphasize how something becomes entangled or difficult to follow over time. This is especially useful when outlining the evolution of complex systems or convoluted plots.

Common error

Avoid using "gradually convoluted" when simpler terms like "increasingly complex" or "becoming more complicated" suffice. Overusing sophisticated language can obscure your message and alienate readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually convoluted" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, modifying a noun or concept to indicate a process of increasing complexity over time. Although Ludwig does not provide direct examples, its structure is grammatically valid.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradually convoluted" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes the increasing complexity of something over time. Although it's not frequently used, as Ludwig shows, it effectively conveys a sense of gradual entanglement or difficulty. The phrase suits neutral to formal contexts and emphasizes the evolution of complexity. For everyday conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. Though the phrase is usable, considering context and audience is essential to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increasingly complex

Focuses on the growing complexity without necessarily implying entanglement or difficulty.

progressively intricate

Highlights the increasing detail and artistry, suggesting a refined complexity.

becoming more elaborate

Emphasizes the addition of details and ornamentation over time.

growing more tangled

Specifically suggests an increasingly knotted or confused state.

slowly becoming muddled

Indicates a gradual descent into confusion or lack of clarity.

bit by bit more complicated

Highlights the incremental nature of the increasing complication.

step by step more confusing

Emphasizes the gradual and incremental nature of the increasing confusion.

gradually more labyrinthine

Implies a structure that is becoming increasingly maze-like and difficult to navigate.

slowly but surely more Byzantine

Suggests increasing complexity and secretiveness, often associated with political intrigue.

evolving into a complex situation

Focuses on the development of a situation towards greater complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "gradually convoluted" in a sentence?

You can use "gradually convoluted" to describe a process or narrative that becomes increasingly complex and difficult to follow over time. For instance: "The legal proceedings became "increasingly complex" and eventually, gradually convoluted."

What are some alternatives to "gradually convoluted"?

Some alternatives include "increasingly complex", "progressively intricate", or "becoming more elaborate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey".

Is "gradually convoluted" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "gradually convoluted" might sound overly formal in casual conversation. Simpler phrases like "getting more confusing" or "becoming more complicated" are generally more appropriate.

What's the difference between "gradually convoluted" and "suddenly convoluted"?

"Gradually convoluted" implies a slow, progressive increase in complexity, while "suddenly convoluted" suggests an abrupt shift to a complicated state. The choice depends on whether the complexity arose over time or appeared unexpectedly.