intricate operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intricate operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complex or detailed process, often in technical or procedural contexts. Example: "The intricate operation of the machinery requires skilled technicians to ensure everything runs smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It's a look of focused and intense attention - one a surgeon might wear while performing the most intricate operation.

The Guardian - Sport

The keys were rebalanced when the piano was rebuilt recently, Mr. Carhart said, describing an intricate operation that left the piano light and lovely.

The New York Times

A brief lapse in Mr. Giordano's vigilance then gave the investigators the chance to tap into the computer and gain access to his intricate operation and what they needed to dismantle it, law enforcement authorities said.

The New York Times

"It was a very intricate operation due to the fact that you had bodies piled on top of each other, some that were alive and some that had passed away and they were still intertwined," said Capt. James Ellson of the Fire Department.

The New York Times

Prager described an intricate operation: a Giants coach sat in a clubhouse overlooking center field, where, from an open window, he watched the opposing catcher through a telescope and communicated the signs with a buzzer to players in the bullpen, who then signalled to the hitters.

The New Yorker

He explains that the two experiences are the difference between observing someone fly an airplane from a comfortable seat, and knowing what the pilots know — the flight plan, what's on the gauges, the effect of air and atmosphere, the technical details of an intricate operation.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Fixing a child's heart is one the most intricate operations that the NHS performs.

Independent

The Da Vinci robot is the first of its kind to treat children in London and will allow surgeons to carry out more intricate operations.

BBC

The indictment focusses on the Internet Research Agency, a troll farm based in St .Petersburg, Russia, which, beginning in 2014, allegedly carried out an expensive and intricate influence operation concentrated on highly contested battleground states, including Florida, Virginia, and Colorado.

The New Yorker

A recent article by the Associated Press brought to light an intricate cover operation by the U.S. Agency of International Development USAIDD) in Cuba.

Huffington Post

He sees the robot eventually being used to perform intricate medical operations like endovascular surgery, where a patient is operated on through their large blood vessels.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process that requires precision and attention to detail, using "intricate operation" can effectively convey the complexity involved. For instance, in medical or engineering contexts, this phrase highlights the skilled execution required.

Common error

Avoid using "intricate operation" when a simpler term like "process" or "task" would suffice. Overusing complex language can make your writing sound pretentious and less clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intricate operation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "intricate" modifies "operation". Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing complex processes or procedures. It emphasizes the complexity and detailed nature of the operation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intricate operation" is a phrase used to describe a complex and detailed process, often requiring skill and precision. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, though it is relatively uncommon. Its primary function is to emphasize the complexity of a process, suitable for news, science, and professional communications. When writing, remember that while it effectively conveys complexity, simpler terms may be more appropriate in less demanding contexts. Alternatives include "complex procedure" or "detailed maneuver". It’s a useful phrase when accuracy and detail are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex procedure

Replaces "operation" with "procedure", emphasizing the process-oriented nature of the activity.

detailed maneuver

Substitutes "operation" with "maneuver", suggesting a planned and skillful movement or action.

elaborate undertaking

Replaces "operation" with "undertaking", highlighting the significant effort and resources involved.

sophisticated scheme

Substitutes "operation" with "scheme", implying a carefully designed and potentially intricate plan.

involved process

Replaces "intricate operation" with a more general phrase indicating complexity.

complicated task

Substitutes "operation" with "task", focusing on a specific goal-oriented activity.

complex mechanism

Replaces "operation" with "mechanism", referring to the components that work together.

finely tuned system

Emphasizes the precision and careful adjustment required for the process.

delicate process

Highlights the care and precision needed in the process.

technical endeavor

Emphasizes the technical aspect of the operation.

FAQs

How can I use "intricate operation" in a sentence?

You can use "intricate operation" to describe complex procedures, such as "The surgeon performed an intricate operation to repair the damaged tissue" or "The company developed an intricate operation for managing its supply chain".

What are some alternatives to "intricate operation"?

Alternatives to "intricate operation" include "complex procedure", "detailed maneuver", or "elaborate undertaking", depending on the context.

Is "intricate operation" formal or informal?

"Intricate operation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts when describing complex processes. Its appropriateness depends on the surrounding language and the intended audience.

What's the difference between "intricate operation" and "complicated process"?

While both phrases denote complexity, "intricate operation" often implies a higher degree of precision and skill than "complicated process". An "intricate operation" suggests detailed and carefully executed steps.