needless convolution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "needless convolution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unnecessarily complicated or intricate, often in the context of explanations or processes. Example: "The report was filled with needless convolution, making it difficult for the audience to grasp the main points."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ten plots for the price of one sounds like a good deal, but with this ambitious production debut from Natalie Dormer, of Game of Thrones (acting as co-writer, producer and protagonist), all initial promise is swamped by a superfluity of incident and needless narrative convolution.

The Times

Needless foul.

The New York Times

This is convolution too.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Needless quip?

The Guardian - Film

"Needless penalties.

The New York Times - Sports

How needless.

The Guardian

17.Omit Needless Words.

Stanford University

The first was needless.

Independent

Needless political pain.

Independent

It was needless.

The New York Times

Omit needless background clutter.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "needless convolution", ensure that you're referring to a situation where simplification would improve clarity. Avoid using it simply as a criticism of complexity, as some complexity may be necessary.

Common error

Avoid labeling genuinely complex topics as "needless convolution" simply because they are difficult to understand. Instead, assess whether the complexity arises from poor explanation or is inherent to the subject matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needless convolution" functions as a noun phrase, where "needless" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "convolution". It describes a state or quality of being unnecessarily complicated. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, though examples are currently limited.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "needless convolution" describes something unnecessarily complicated. While grammatically sound, Ludwig indicates that there are no direct examples available for analysis, pointing to it as a rare expression. Therefore, it's key to use it appropriately, ensuring the complexity you're criticizing truly is without purpose. Consider using alternatives like "unnecessary complexity" or "superfluous intricacy" to best convey your intended meaning. The absence of occurrences from authoritative sources suggests a need for careful application of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

needless complexity

A more straightforward synonym, omitting "convolution".

unnecessary complication

Mirrors the original phrase but uses "complication" instead of "convolution".

unnecessary complexity

Replaces the more formal "convolution" with the simpler "complexity".

superfluous intricacy

Uses "superfluous" to emphasize the excess and "intricacy" for the detailed nature of the complication.

gratuitous complication

Highlights that the complication is uncalled for or unwarranted.

unwarranted complexity

Similar to gratuitous, stressing that the complexity lacks justification.

excessive complication

Focuses on the overabundance of complicating factors.

over-complication

A more concise term for making something more complex than necessary.

redundant elaboration

Emphasizes the unnecessary detail and lengthiness.

pointless intricacy

Highlights the lack of purpose in the detailed complication.

FAQs

How can I use "needless convolution" in a sentence?

You can use "needless convolution" to describe explanations or processes that are unnecessarily complex and confusing. For example, "The report was filled with needless convolution, making it difficult to understand the main points."

What can I say instead of "needless convolution"?

You can use alternatives like "unnecessary complexity", "superfluous intricacy", or "gratuitous complication" depending on the context.

Is "needless complexity" the same as "needless convolution"?

"Needless complexity" and "needless convolution" are very similar. "Convolution" implies a twisting or intricate folding, adding a nuance of complex interconnectedness that "complexity" alone might not convey. Both terms, however, describe something more complicated than necessary.

When is complexity considered "needless"?

Complexity is considered "needless" when it doesn't contribute to understanding, solving a problem, or achieving a goal. It often arises from poor communication, lack of planning, or an attempt to appear more knowledgeable than one is.