is so complex that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is so complex that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a clause that explains the extent of complexity in a situation or concept. Example: "The theory is so complex that even experts struggle to fully understand it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They admit that it is so complex that mistakes are made.

The Guardian

The narrative is so complex that it may confuse some viewers.

The New York Times

The process for awarding Nobel prizes is so complex that it cannot be corrupted".

The Guardian

It is so complex that most Eurocrats struggle to understand it.

The Economist

But it is so complex that for a long time only eccentrics studied it.

The Economist

The formula is so complex that the agency publishes a 218-page "user's manual".

The New York Times - Science

In those cases, drug companies argue that their manufacture is so complex that copying them is nearly impossible.

The New York Times

Moreover, if Cisco is so complex that it requires 59 councils, it should consider breaking into more manageable pieces.

The New York Times

The intelligent design concept holds that life is so complex that it must have been created by a higher power.

The New York Times

Nor does it imply that climate change is so complex that it cannot be communicated to the general public.

The Guardian

"The process is so complex that there is not one variable that makes or breaks it,' Dr. Dominko said.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is so complex that", ensure the subsequent clause clearly and directly explains the consequence or limitation resulting from the complexity. This provides clarity and strengthens the causal relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "is so complex that" without a clear and understandable explanation of the resulting issue. Vague or undefined consequences weaken the impact and purpose of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

Causal connector. The phrase "is so complex that" functions as a causal connector, linking a subject's high level of complexity to a resulting consequence or limitation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this structure effectively introduces a clause explaining the extent of complexity and its impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is so complex that" is a very common causal connector used to indicate that a high level of intricacy leads to a specific consequence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English. Predominantly found in news and scientific sources, the phrase is grammatically sound and serves to establish a clear causal relationship between complexity and its effects. When using this phrase, ensure the subsequent clause explains the outcome, and consider more formal alternatives like "is of such complexity that" for academic or professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is so intricate that

Replaces "complex" with "intricate", emphasizing detailed and elaborate complexity.

is so complicated that

Substitutes "complex" with "complicated", highlighting the confusing and difficult nature of something.

is of such complexity that

Changes the structure to emphasize the degree of complexity as the primary subject.

is so convoluted that

Replaces "complex" with "convoluted", suggesting a tangled and difficult-to-follow structure.

is so sophisticated that

Uses "sophisticated" instead of "complex", indicating a high level of refinement and intricacy.

is so elaborate that

Replaces "complex" with "elaborate", emphasizing the detailed and carefully arranged nature of something.

is so multifaceted that

Uses "multifaceted" instead of "complex", highlighting the numerous aspects and dimensions involved.

is characterized by such complexity that

Emphasizes that complexity is a defining characteristic, altering the sentence structure.

presents such a level of complexity that

Shifts the focus to the presentation or manifestation of complexity.

is fraught with so much complexity that

Adds a sense of being burdened or overwhelmed by the complexity involved.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is so complex that" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "is of such complexity that", "is characterized by such complexity that", or "presents such a level of complexity that". These options often suit academic and professional writing.

What are some common synonyms for "complex" when using "is so complex that"?

You can replace "complex" with words like "intricate", "complicated", "convoluted", or "sophisticated" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "is so complex that" at the beginning of a sentence?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "is so complex that" can sometimes sound awkward. It's often better to restructure the sentence to place the complex subject earlier for better flow and readability.

What's the difference between "is so complex that" and "is complex because"?

"Is so complex that" emphasizes the degree of complexity and its direct consequences, while "is complex because" focuses on providing reasons or factors contributing to the complexity. The former highlights impact; the latter, explanation.