Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
it's slightly complicated
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesTable of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
It is slightly complicated as my brother is playing for a youth team in Colombia so either my mum or dad have to be with him.
News & Media
"It was slightly complicated, because you have a lot of people involved, and obviously a lot of other agencies involved," Armstrong said of the delay.
News & Media
Although it was nothing like the smallest space I've ever gotten into, it was slightly complicated by the motorcycle that was at the back end.
News & Media
We have presented details of the GroE substrate classes because the classification of chaperonin substrates is important for the following data analysis and it is slightly complicated.
Science
It was slightly complicated by the repeated measurement of social distance within participants – each of whom was asked to respond to three separate vignettes.
Science
UPDATE It is possible to run Pokesav on a PowerPC mac, but the steps to running it are slightly complicated.
Wiki
"It's going to be slightly complicated because the jockeys will need to work out between them who's coming, how many of them are coming and when it is suitable for them to attend.
News & Media
But since the story is slightly complicated (not that it can't be told straightforwardly, but it has several moving parts), doesn't involve anyone black, wasn't dug up by a mainstream media outlet, and won't be pumped by Matt Drudge or his mini-me Mark Halperin, it's likely to sink without a trace.
News & Media
Nevertheless, although the ATDOA system signaling is slightly complicated and the performance is poorer, it worths the effort to relax the more difficult clock synchronization requirement and therefore provides great potential for practical use.
The account has to be slightly complicated to accommodate a distinction between simple and complex propositions: it will apply directly only to simple propositions, and indirectly to complex ones.
Science
Here the picture is slightly complicated.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "it's slightly complicated", follow it with a brief explanation of why it's complicated to give your audience context and avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "it's slightly complicated" as a standalone statement. Always provide additional details to clarify the nature and source of the complication to ensure clarity and understanding.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.2/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "it's slightly complicated" primarily functions as a qualifier, softening the impact of a potentially negative assessment. It suggests that a situation is not entirely simple but avoids portraying it as overwhelmingly difficult. Ludwig examples show it describing routes, stories, prizes, and personal situations.
Frequent in
News & Media
32%
Science
32%
Wiki
13%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "it's slightly complicated" is a versatile phrase used to introduce topics or situations that are not entirely straightforward but also not overwhelmingly complex. Ludwig examples and Ludwig AI analysis reveal that the phrase is generally grammatically correct and serves to manage expectations, often preceding further explanations. While it appears in a range of sources, including news and scientific publications, more formal settings might benefit from more precise language. Remember to provide context when using this phrase to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. Related alternatives include "it's a bit complex" and "somewhat intricate".
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
it's a bit complex
Uses 'a bit' instead of 'slightly', slightly altering the degree of complication.
it's somewhat intricate
Replaces 'complicated' with 'intricate', suggesting a more detailed level of complexity.
it's not entirely straightforward
Emphasizes the lack of simplicity, rather than directly stating complication.
it presents some challenges
Focuses on the challenges arising from the complication, rather than the complication itself.
it's multifaceted
Implies that the situation has many aspects, leading to its complexity.
there are a few issues involved
Highlights the presence of multiple problems contributing to the complexity.
the situation is nuanced
Highlights the presence of subtleties that make the matter complicated.
it involves several factors
Indicates that multiple elements contribute to the complexity of the situation.
it has nuances
Points to subtle but important details that add to the complexity.
it requires careful consideration
Shifts the focus to the need for thoughtful analysis due to the underlying complexity.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "it's slightly complicated" to sound more formal?
In formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "the matter presents some complexities", "the situation is somewhat intricate", or "it involves several factors requiring careful consideration". These options provide a more professional tone while conveying a similar meaning.
Is "it's slightly complicated" suitable for academic writing?
While grammatically correct, /s/"it's slightly complicated" might be perceived as informal for academic writing. Opt for more precise language like "the analysis is nuanced", "the methodology involves several steps", or "the data interpretation presents certain challenges" to maintain an academic tone.
What does "it's slightly complicated" mean?
The phrase "it's slightly complicated" indicates that a situation, process, or concept is not entirely straightforward and involves some level of difficulty or intricacy, but not to an overwhelming degree. It suggests a need for careful attention or explanation.
What are some synonyms for "slightly complicated"?
Synonyms include "a bit complex", "somewhat intricate", "not entirely straightforward", or "somewhat involved". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.2/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested