is a complex operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a complex operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or process that involves multiple steps or intricate details, indicating that it is not straightforward. Example: "The process of integrating the new software into our existing system is a complex operation that requires careful planning and execution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The Secret Service acknowledges that this is a complex operation.

The New York Times

Vivendi, formerly Compagnie Generale des Eaux, is a complex operation.

The New York Times

Vivendi, which was formerly known as Compagnie Generale des Eaux, is a complex operation.

The New York Times

"Combating terrorist insurgent groups like the Abu Sayyaf Group is a complex operation," the admiral said.

The New York Times

It is a complex operation requiring careful judgements and particular attention to resources – which is precisely why it appealed to Rutledge, who in his youth wanted to be an investment banker.

Independent

Professor Sir Mike Richards, the government's national cancer tsar, said: "Delivering state of the art radiotherapy is a complex operation.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It was a complex operation.

The Guardian

"It has been a complex operation," he said.

The New York Times

"It has been a complex operation but I am delighted that the commissioning of the wind farm has now been completed on schedule, despite the worst of the winter weather," added Rigg.

The Guardian

"This was a complex operation and involved a great level of coordination from the time the drugs were intercepted in Darwin to being traced through to Sydney where the arrest has been made," said an Australian federal police spokesman, Mark Setter.

The Guardian

"There may be people who are frustrated, but this was a complex operation with a lot of unusual aspects, and it has taken time to sort through it all," Mr. Di Rita said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is a complex operation", ensure that the surrounding context provides specific details or examples to illustrate the complexity. This helps the reader understand the scope and challenges involved, adding clarity and credibility to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "is a complex operation" as a vague descriptor without providing concrete reasons why the operation is complex. This can make your writing sound unsubstantiated and weaken your argument. Always back up your claim with specific details or examples.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a complex operation" functions as a predicate nominative, attributing a characteristic (complexity) to a subject. As evidenced by Ludwig, it commonly describes processes, tasks, or systems requiring intricate handling and expertise. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is a complex operation" serves to characterize a task, process, or system as intricate and multifaceted. As Ludwig highlights, this expression is grammatically sound and frequently employed across diverse domains, including science, news, and formal business contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to provide contextual details to substantiate the claim of complexity, enhancing clarity and credibility. Alternatives such as "is an intricate process" or "is a multifaceted undertaking" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is an intricate process

Replaces "complex operation" with "intricate process" maintaining the meaning but using different descriptive words.

is a multifaceted undertaking

Substitutes "complex operation" with "multifaceted undertaking" highlighting the many aspects involved.

is a sophisticated procedure

Replaces "complex operation" with "sophisticated procedure", emphasizing the advanced nature of the process.

is an elaborate scheme

Changes "complex operation" to "elaborate scheme", suggesting a detailed and carefully planned structure.

is a complicated endeavor

Replaces "complex operation" with "complicated endeavor", keeping the core meaning but with a slightly different tone.

is a knotty affair

Uses the term "knotty affair" instead of "complex operation" to imply difficulty and entanglement.

is a challenging task

Substitutes "complex operation" with "challenging task", focusing on the difficulty involved.

is a demanding activity

Replaces "complex operation" with "demanding activity", highlighting the effort required.

is a tricky business

Uses the more informal "tricky business" instead of "complex operation", suggesting potential pitfalls.

is a labyrinthine exercise

Replaces "complex operation" with "labyrinthine exercise", emphasizing the convoluted and maze-like nature.

FAQs

How can I use "is a complex operation" in a sentence?

You can use "is a complex operation" to describe any process or task that involves multiple steps, intricate details, or significant challenges. For instance, "Launching a new product line "is a complex operation" involving market research, product development, and marketing strategies."

What are some alternatives to "is a complex operation"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is an intricate process", "is a multifaceted undertaking", or "is a sophisticated procedure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to elaborate after saying something "is a complex operation"?

While not strictly required, it's best practice to provide context or examples to support your claim that something ""is a complex operation"". This adds credibility to your statement and helps your audience understand the scope of the task.

What makes something qualify as "a complex operation"?

A "complex operation" typically involves numerous interconnected steps, requires specialized knowledge or skills, and may be subject to various challenges or uncertainties. The complexity arises from the intricate nature of the task and the need for careful planning and execution.