intricate process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intricate process" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a complicated process that involves multiple steps and multiple components. For example, "The process of making a birthday cake is an intricate process that requires you to mix, bake, and decorate the cake."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Expression of protein-encoding gene in eukaryotes is an intricate process that includes several distinct steps of transcription, mRNA processing and mRNA translation.

BMC Genomics

"It's a very intricate process".

The New York Times

Now comes the long, intricate process of reorganizing Europe.

The New York Times

The intricate process is illegal and comes with extreme risks.

The New York Times

They explained to us the intricate process of Andean weaving.

Princeton University

The coffee cherries go through a long and intricate process before they're ready for brewing.

The Times

"It's really quite an intricate process – if one oscillator goes slightly out, it's ruined.

Independent

Alfred Rios puts on his glasses, examines a dollar bill and begins an intricate process of folding and unfolding.

The New York Times - Food

I'm trying to describe an intricate process, crucial to forming a lasting, meaningful relationship with a piece of art.

The New Yorker

Mr. Hung learned the intricate process of making jong from his parents, who once owned a shop in Hong Kong.

The New York Times - Arts

Studying iPS-induced germ cells in vitro could allow researchers to understand the intricate process through which gametes are formed.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, use "intricate process" to emphasize the multiple interconnected steps and high level of detail involved. This adds a sense of complexity and sophistication to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "intricate process" when a simpler term like "method" or "procedure" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound pretentious or unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intricate process" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a process that is complex and detailed. Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts, from scientific research to everyday activities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intricate process" is a correct and frequently used noun phrase that describes a complex and detailed procedure. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to emphasize the sophistication and interconnected steps involved. While suitable for various contexts, it is particularly prevalent in scientific, academic, and news-related domains. Remember to avoid overusing it in simple contexts to maintain clarity and conciseness in your writing. Alternative phrases such as "complex procedure" or "detailed methodology" can be used to vary your language while conveying similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex system

Highlights the interconnected elements.

complex procedure

Emphasizes the multi-layered and involved nature of the procedure.

complicated operation

Highlights the potential difficulties and interdependent steps within the operation.

elaborate mechanism

Focuses on the detailed and carefully arranged components of the mechanism.

sophisticated technique

Suggests a high degree of skill and precision involved in the technique.

involved undertaking

Underscores the commitment and complexity associated with the undertaking.

delicate maneuver

Emphasizes the precision required.

multi-stage development

Draws attention to the sequential and interdependent stages of the development.

detailed methodology

Points to the thoroughness and precision of the methodology.

meticulous system

Stresses the care and attention to detail within the system.

FAQs

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

You can use "intricate process" to describe any complex procedure. For example: "The development of new software is an intricate process." or "Brain surgery is a very intricate process".

What's a good alternative to "intricate process"?

Depending on the context, you could use "complex procedure", "complicated operation", or "detailed methodology" as alternatives.

Is it redundant to say "very intricate process"?

While not strictly redundant, adding "very" to "intricate process" doesn't significantly enhance the meaning. "Intricate" already implies a high degree of complexity.

What makes a process "intricate"?

A process is "intricate" when it involves many interconnected steps, requires precision, and may be challenging to execute due to its complexity. It's more than just a simple series of actions; it's a network of dependencies and nuances.