how complex it would be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "how complex it would be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential difficulty or intricacy of a situation or task. Example: "I never realized how complex it would be to coordinate such a large event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I don't think anybody understood how complex it would be".

The New York Times

"It's extremely controversial, and I'm not sure everyone understood how complex it would be".

The New York Times

"I never disclosed to you this level of debt and how complex it would be to eliminate it".

The New York Times

"Our biggest mistake was not understanding how complex it would be to start a programme on the ground," Eisenstadt says.

The Guardian

But when military leaders briefed them as part of so-called Forum of Eight top ministers on how complex it would be, both demurred.

The New York Times

In a surprising decision that showcased how complex it would be for Texas A&M to leave the Big 12, a group of presidents of universities in the Southeastern Conference decided Sunday against taking immediate action on conference expansion.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"You can't imagine how complex it would have been for the government to get the money and buy all these systems in a short period of time".

Forbes

Determine how wide and how tall it would be.

WikiHow

Mr. Ravitch said that transferring control of the bridges to the authority was a complex legal matter, and it was not clear how it would be accomplished.

The New York Times

That was how we wished it would be.

BMC Geriatrics

You'd be surprised how complex it can be.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "how complex it would be", ensure that the context clearly establishes what "it" refers to, providing clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "how complex it would be" without a clear antecedent for "it". Ambiguity can confuse readers and weaken your message. Always ensure the subject is explicitly stated or easily inferred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how complex it would be" functions as a relative clause, often introducing a discussion about the anticipated difficulty or intricacy of a particular situation or task. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "how complex it would be" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey the anticipated difficulty or intricacy of a given task or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. While versatile, it's best suited for contexts where analytical assessment is key, particularly in news, media, and scientific discussions. To ensure clarity, always provide a clear reference for what "it" refers to. Alternative phrases such as "how intricate it might be" or "the potential difficulty entailed" can provide nuanced options for expressing similar concepts. With these considerations, writers can effectively leverage this phrase to communicate anticipated challenges and complexities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

how intricate it might be

Focuses on the detailed and elaborate nature of the complexity.

the level of complexity involved

Highlights the extent and scope of the complex elements.

the potential difficulty entailed

Emphasizes the challenges and problems that could arise from the complexity.

the degree of complication anticipated

Stresses the expectation of increased intricacy and difficulty.

the challenges that could arise

Shifts focus to the problematic aspects potentially caused by complexity.

the multifaceted nature of the issue

Highlights that the issue has many aspects that needs to be considered.

the labyrinthine structure it presents

Implies a confusing and intricate arrangement.

the knotty problem it poses

Conveys that the complexity presents a difficult problem to solve.

the convoluted nature of the undertaking

Underscores the tangled and complicated aspects of the project.

how demanding it could prove to be

Focuses on the high level of effort and resources required due to the complexity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "how complex it would be" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the degree of complexity involved" or "the potential intricacy anticipated". These options offer a more sophisticated way to convey the same meaning.

What's a simpler way to express "how complex it would be"?

Alternatives like "how difficult it might be" or "how complicated it could be" offer a more straightforward and accessible way to communicate the potential challenges.

Is "how complex it would be" grammatically correct?

Yes, "how complex it would be" is grammatically sound and frequently used in both written and spoken English. It's a valid way to express the anticipated level of difficulty or intricacy.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "how complex it would be"?

This phrase is suitable in contexts where you are discussing or predicting the potential difficulty or intricacy of a task, situation, or concept. It's often used when evaluating plans, projects, or problem-solving approaches.