needlessly intricate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "needlessly intricate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is overly complicated or complex without a good reason. Example: "The instructions for assembling the furniture were needlessly intricate, making the process frustrating for everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Needlessly provocative?

The New York Times - Books

(Those were intricate times).

The New Yorker

This is needlessly complicated.

The New York Times

Then, shyly, needlessly, "Housekeeping".

The New Yorker

But needlessly complicated.

The New York Times - Tech

Sound needlessly complicated?

The New York Times - Books

They worried needlessly.

The New York Times - Arts

Millions may be suffering needlessly.

Harvard University

Is NATO expansion needlessly provocative?

Princeton University

They worry needlessly.

The Economist

He had worried needlessly.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes or instructions, avoid making them "needlessly intricate". Simplify steps to ensure clarity and ease of understanding for the user.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly technical language when simpler terms would suffice. Making explanations "needlessly intricate" can confuse your audience and obscure your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needlessly intricate" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, modifying a noun to describe its excessive and unnecessary complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "needlessly intricate" serves to describe something that is more complex than necessary. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct. While there are no direct examples in the provided data to gauge usage frequency, this analysis provides a detailed breakdown of its grammatical function, semantic purpose, and potential contexts. When aiming for clarity, consider using simpler alternatives such as "unnecessarily complex" or "overly elaborate".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

needlessly complex

A more direct synonym, maintaining a similar tone and meaning.

unnecessarily complex

Emphasizes the lack of necessity in the complexity.

needlessly convoluted

Indicates something is twisted in an unnecessary way.

gratuitously complicated

Highlights that the complication is uncalled for or excessive.

unjustifiably intricate

Highlights that the intricacy lacks justification.

overly elaborate

Focuses on the excessiveness of the detail.

unnecessarily detailed

Concentrates on the unnecessary amount of detail.

pointlessly convoluted

Indicates the complexity serves no real purpose.

excessively labyrinthine

Suggests a confusing and intricate structure beyond what is needed.

over-engineered

Often used in technical contexts, implying unnecessary complexity in design.

FAQs

What does "needlessly intricate" mean?

The phrase "needlessly intricate" describes something that is more complex or detailed than necessary. It suggests that the level of detail or complexity is excessive and doesn't serve a useful purpose.

How can I avoid making instructions "needlessly intricate"?

To avoid making instructions "needlessly intricate", focus on clarity and simplicity. Use straightforward language, break down complex tasks into smaller steps, and avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terms.

What are some alternatives to "needlessly intricate"?

You can use alternatives like "unnecessarily complex", "overly elaborate", or "gratuitously complicated" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "needlessly intricate"?

Use "needlessly intricate" when you want to criticize or point out that something is excessively complex without a good reason. It's suitable for describing processes, designs, or explanations.