intricate design

USAGE SUMMARY

"intricate design" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something complicated and detailed that has been created, such as a piece of artwork or a building. For example: "The architect created an intricate design for the new office building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

From a distance, jewelled colours glow within an intricate design.

Independent

Erin O'Connor preceded her, in a similarly intricate design.

Independent

It's fronted by an intricate design depicting a gate with padlocks on the top.

The Guardian - Books

There's intricate design and considerable wit in the movie's two worlds.

The New Yorker

He turned his head side to side, revealing an intricate design that would require regular upkeep.

The New Yorker

We love the intricate design of the golden leaves amid the pretty coloured beads.

Independent

That gate is part of the intricate design of every nook and cranny of the building.

The New York Times

No figure in the novel's intricate design, however, provides greater pleasure than Sartaj, the Sikh cop in pursuit of Gaitonde.

The New Yorker

He then niftily reshaped them, using a tool that was 'resisted' by the shapes to make a more intricate design.

The Guardian - Business

There are a few baubles in the mix, including this intricate design on glass celebrating the capital's skyline.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Tiny, intricate designs are repeated in four concentric bands on each disk.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual elements, use "intricate design" to emphasize the high level of detail and complexity involved. For example, instead of saying "The building has a detailed facade", say "The building has an "intricate design" on its facade."

Common error

Avoid using "intricate design" when describing simple or basic designs. The phrase is best reserved for situations where the level of detail and complexity is genuinely noteworthy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intricate design" functions as a noun phrase, where "intricate" modifies the noun "design". It describes a design that is complex and has many elaborately arranged elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intricate design" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe complex and highly detailed designs. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows it's most commonly found in news and media, scientific publications, and on wikis. The phrase is deemed grammatically correct and usable according to Ludwig AI, making it suitable for various writing contexts, especially when precision is key. Remember to reserve it for designs that truly warrant the description due to their high level of complexity and detail. Consider alternatives like "complex pattern" or "elaborate artwork" to avoid overuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate structure

Synonymous, replacing design with structure. Highlights structural complexity.

finely detailed pattern

Combination of the ideas. Highlights detail and arrangement.

complex pattern

Replaces "design" with a synonym emphasizing the arrangement of elements.

elaborate artwork

Substitutes both words, highlighting the artistic nature and detail.

detailed construction

Focuses on the meticulous nature of the building or assembly.

sophisticated model

Emphasizes the advanced and refined nature of the design.

fine craftsmanship

Highlights the skill and precision involved in creating the design.

ornate composition

Stresses the decorative and elaborate aspects of the arrangement.

meticulous arrangement

Focuses on the careful and precise organization of elements.

complex architecture

Relates specifically to the detailed and multifaceted nature of architectural design.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "intricate design" in a sentence?

Use "intricate design" to describe something that has a high level of detail and complexity. For example, "The clock features an "intricate design" that is mesmerizing to behold".

What are some alternatives to "intricate design"?

You can use alternatives like "complex pattern", "elaborate artwork", or "detailed construction" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "intricate design" in formal writing?

Yes, "intricate design" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing detailed artwork, architecture, or complex systems. Its use conveys a sense of sophistication and precision.

What's the difference between "intricate design" and "detailed design"?

"Intricate design" implies a higher level of complexity and interconnectedness of details, while "detailed design" simply means that there are many details. An "intricate design" is always detailed, but a "detailed design" is not always intricate.