more complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "more complex" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is more difficult than something else, such as when you are comparing two things. For example, "This problem is more complex than the one we solved last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bankruptcy is more complex.

The Economist

It's become more complex".

The New Yorker

Reality is more complex.

The Economist

My travels became more complex.

The New Yorker

They are much more complex.

Independent

It's more complex than that.

The New York Times - Books

He makes it more complex".

The New York Times

"Today, it is more complex.

The New York Times

Another, more complex, was race.

The New York Times - Arts

Things are now more complex.

The New York Times

The reality was more complex.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two subjects, use "more complex" to clearly indicate which one involves a greater number of interacting parts or elements. This helps convey a deeper understanding of the subject's nature.

Common error

Avoid using "more complex" as a general descriptor without providing specific details about the nature of the complexity. Always aim to explain how something is "more complex" to provide clarity and context.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "more complex" is that of a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating a higher degree of complexity when compared to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more complex" is a widely used and grammatically sound comparative adjective phrase used to denote a higher degree of intricacy or sophistication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it finds frequent application across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic content. When employing "more complex", ensure you justify the comparison with specific details about the nature of the complexity. Alternatives include "more intricate", "more sophisticated", and "more involved". Be mindful to avoid overuse and provide context for a clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more intricate

Emphasizes the detailed and elaborate nature, highlighting complexity through design and arrangement.

more sophisticated

Implies a higher level of refinement and advanced understanding, focusing on the intellectual aspect of complexity.

more elaborate

Highlights the detailed and extensive nature, often involving many parts or steps.

more convoluted

Suggests a confusing and unnecessarily complicated structure or process.

more involved

Indicates a greater level of participation, commitment, or detail required.

more multifaceted

Emphasizes the presence of many different aspects or features.

more nuanced

Highlights subtle differences and shades of meaning, implying a deeper understanding.

increasingly complex

Focuses on the process of becoming more complex over time.

of greater complexity

Formal way of expressing a higher degree of complexity.

rather complex

Softens the statement, indicating a significant but not overwhelming level of complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "more complex" in a sentence?

Use "more complex" to compare two things, showing one is more intricate or difficult. For instance, "The new software is "more complex" than the previous version because it has more features".

What can I say instead of "more complex"?

Alternatives include "more intricate", "more sophisticated", or "more involved", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "more complex" or "complexer"?

"More complex" is the grammatically correct form. "Complexer" is not standard English. Always use "more" with "complex" to indicate a higher degree of complexity.

What's the difference between "more complex" and "complicated"?

"More complex" typically implies a greater number of interacting parts, while "complicated" often suggests something is difficult to understand or deal with. Something can be complex without being inherently complicated, and vice versa.