intricate work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intricate work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or piece of art that is complex and detailed, often requiring skill and precision. Example: "The artist's intricate work captivated everyone at the gallery, showcasing her attention to detail and creativity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Williams makes elaborate and intricate work.

The Guardian - Arts

It is intricate work; the technicians have to move with the precision of a Daytona pit crew.

The New Yorker

Immersive games like Battlefield, on the other hand, require years of intricate work by hundreds of software engineers and artists.

The New York Times - Tech

Their most intricate work is as impressive as a Brancusi, but they're the opposite of highbrow artsy types.

The New York Times - Arts

That turns out to be hard, intricate work which stretches right across a company's operations, and perhaps beyond.

The Economist

Sales unfolds his story like a Chinese box, an intricate work of logic written in spartan prose.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Enjoy viewing these intricate works of art while you stroll through the park.

Harvard University

George Manahan, the conductor, asserted admirable control in holding these intricate works together.

The New York Times - Arts

Local artists use the city as their canvas and street artists from around the world come to create intricate works on the buildings of Cerro Alegre.

The Guardian - Travel

Our recommendations for this year range from simple offerings for around a fiver right up to large and intricate works of art for over £100.

Independent

Like dioramas, the intricate works are under glass cloches and capture a miniature natural world, with mushrooms, trees or insects — all made of paper.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "intricate work" to emphasize the complexity and interconnectedness of processes or systems, particularly in technical or scientific contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "intricate work" when simpler terms like "detailed work" or "careful work" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intricate work" functions as a noun phrase typically used as an object or subject complement. It describes a task, process, or creation characterized by complexity and fine detail. Ludwig indicates that it follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intricate work" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase to describe tasks or creations marked by complexity and detailed execution. According to Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news media but also appears in academic and encyclopedic contexts. The analysis suggests using this phrase to highlight skill, detail, and complexity, while avoiding its overuse in simple contexts. Consider alternatives like "detailed craftsmanship" or "elaborate design" for nuanced descriptions. Ludwig's AI confirms the phrase is appropriate for general use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detailed craftsmanship

Focuses on the skill and artistry involved in the work, emphasizing the quality of the execution.

complex creation

Highlights the complexity and originality of the work, suggesting a sophisticated design or process.

elaborate design

Emphasizes the detailed and ornate nature of the design itself.

meticulous artistry

Stresses the precision and attention to detail in the artistic process.

finely detailed work

Underscores the small, precise details that make up the whole.

sophisticated construction

Highlights the advanced and complex methods used in building or assembling something.

involved undertaking

Focuses on the level of participation and complexity of a project or task.

laborious task

Emphasizes the effort and difficulty required to complete the work.

challenging endeavor

Highlights the difficulties and obstacles faced during the work.

painstaking effort

Focuses on the extreme care and dedication involved in the work.

FAQs

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

You can use "intricate work" to describe something that requires a lot of skill and attention to detail. For example, "The clockmaker was known for his /s/finely+detailed+work and /s/complex+craftsmanship."

What are some synonyms for "intricate work"?

Alternatives include "detailed craftsmanship", "complex creation", or "elaborate design", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of the work.

Is it more appropriate to say "intricate work" or "complex work"?

While both are valid, "intricate work" often suggests a higher level of detail and artistry than "complex work", which simply implies a complicated structure. Choose the term that best reflects the specific nature of the work you're describing.

What's the difference between "intricate work" and "meticulous work"?

"Intricate work" emphasizes the complexity of the design or execution, while "meticulous artistry" highlights the extreme care and precision taken in performing the work. The nuance depends on whether you want to focus on the design's complexity or the care taken during execution.