it was quite complex

USAGE SUMMARY

'it was quite complex' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when you want to describe something as having a lot of layers or being intricate and challenging. For example: "The tax filing process was quite complex. There were a lot of rules to abide by and steps to take in order to submit the paperwork correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Though the professors' question appears simple enough, answering it was quite complex.

The New York Times

"It was quite complex, quite tense," Mr. Brill added, "and at the same time David was doing two other litigations.

The New York Times

It was quite complex".

BBC

"It was quite complex because the resolution is so very big.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's quite complex, actually, despite its simple surface.

Vice

"It's quite complex analytical work".

Independent

It's quite complex, and I just enjoyed playing her.

The Guardian - Film

Our relationship has always been close but it is quite complex.

The Guardian - Sport

This argument has the added benefit is that it is quite complex and so will be difficult to explain.

The Guardian - Business

"Now that wasn't a small piece of work, it's quite complex keeping a partnership like that going, but we were able to share good practice across all the organisations".

The Guardian

It's quite complex.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was quite complex" to describe situations, processes, or ideas that involve many interconnected elements and require careful consideration. This phrase is suitable when conveying that something isn't straightforward but avoids overly technical jargon.

Common error

While "it was quite complex" is acceptable, excessive use of "quite" can weaken your writing. In formal contexts, consider replacing "quite" with stronger adverbs like "very", "extremely", or "remarkably" to enhance impact and clarity. For example, using "it was remarkably complex" might provide stronger emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was quite complex" functions as a descriptive statement. It attributes the quality of complexity to a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was quite complex" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase that indicates intricacy and difficulty. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable in written English. Though adaptable, it’s most frequently found in news articles and scientific contexts, holding a neutral register. If greater impact is desired, stronger alternatives like "remarkably complex" can be considered. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing situations requiring detailed consideration. Remember to use this phrase to accurately convey that something is not straightforward, involving multiple interconnected elements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was rather intricate

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

it was fairly complicated

Substitutes "quite complex" with "fairly complicated", keeping the sense of something not straightforward.

it was substantially involved

Replaces "complex" with "involved", highlighting the many elements and considerations.

it presented significant challenges

Focuses on the difficulty aspect implied by something being complex.

it demanded considerable expertise

Highlights that the complexity required specialized knowledge.

it necessitated careful analysis

Shifts the focus to the need for detailed examination due to the complexity.

it was anything but simple

Emphasizes complexity by stating the opposite of simplicity.

it involved a multifaceted approach

Highlights that the complexity requires a variety of perspectives and methods.

it was notably sophisticated

Substitutes "complex" with "sophisticated", shifting emphasis to refinement and advanced design.

it required a high degree of skill

Emphasizes the level of proficiency needed to manage the complexity.

FAQs

What does "it was quite complex" mean?

The phrase "it was quite complex" indicates that something was intricate, involved, and not easily understood or handled. It suggests a situation or task had multiple layers or elements requiring careful consideration.

What can I say instead of "it was quite complex"?

You can use alternatives like "it was rather intricate", "it was fairly complicated", or "it presented significant challenges" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it is quite complex" instead of "it was quite complex"?

Yes, "it is quite complex" is grammatically correct. The choice between "it is" and "it was" depends on the time frame you're referring to. Use "it is" for present situations and "it was" for past situations.

How formal is the phrase "it was quite complex"?

The phrase "it was quite complex" is considered relatively neutral in formality. It's suitable for both professional and informal contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from using stronger or more precise language.