not particularly complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not particularly complex" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is simple or straightforward, often in contrast to something that is more complicated. Example: "The instructions for assembling the furniture were not particularly complex, making it easy for anyone to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

A Simple Business The syndicate's methods were not particularly complex, investigators said.

The New York Times - Sports

Blackboard technology is not particularly complex, which is one reason that some technology-averse professors say they like it.

The New York Times

"It taps into an affordable source of electricity, and the technology is not particularly complex," he says.

The Guardian

Discount brokerage is not particularly complex, but the blueprint condenses and simplifies the service and omits many minor steps.

Harvard Business Review

Sparano's passing game, though not particularly complex, will be more demanding than what his predecessor Brian Schottenheimer ran.

The New York Times

Of course, all of this electronic help does not change the reality that Thanksgiving dinner, while not particularly complex, is a challenge to get on the table.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The show's casting wasn't particularly complex.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The rhyme schemes aren't particularly complex, but the lyrics are alive with wit and humor, and they don't shy away from surging emotion either.

The New York Times

The soup was a fine, and even better with grated Parmesan, but the flavors weren't particularly complex — it was seasoned only with bay leaves and thyme; as a Moosewood devotee, I blame the lack of cumin.

The New Yorker

Ultimately, when you come down to it, the service model isn't particularly complex.

TechCrunch

The calculations themselves aren't particularly complex — though they aren't the kind of math you'd want to do with a pen and paper.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not particularly complex", follow it with a brief explanation of what makes it simple to provide context and clarity for your audience.

Common error

While "not particularly complex" is acceptable in many settings, avoid overusing it in casual conversations. Opt for simpler synonyms like "easy" or "simple" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not particularly complex" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a relative lack of complexity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound and usable expression to describe something straightforward. The phrase subtly communicates that a subject isn't exceedingly difficult or intricate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not particularly complex" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something as relatively simple or straightforward. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from News & Media to Science. When using the phrase, make sure that the context is appropriate, especially avoiding overuse in informal settings and providing additional explanation when applicable. Consider synonyms like "relatively simple" or "fairly straightforward" for similar meanings. Avoid the common mistake of using it in overly informal contexts, where simpler terms would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relatively simple

Emphasizes simplicity by comparison, suggesting it's easier than other options.

fairly straightforward

Highlights the ease and directness, implying an uncomplicated process.

not overly complicated

Focuses on the absence of excess complication, suitable for technical contexts.

somewhat basic

Suggests fundamental or elementary nature, suitable for explaining initial stages.

reasonably uncomplicated

Indicates a practical absence of difficulty, often implying efficiency.

not all that intricate

Emphasizes a lack of detailed or elaborate design.

quite elementary

Suggests a foundational level, suitable for educational settings.

moderately simple

Balances simplicity with other aspects, suggesting it's only somewhat basic.

not especially sophisticated

Denotes a lack of advanced features or complexity, often in technological contexts.

rather rudimentary

Implies simplicity to the point of being basic or undeveloped.

FAQs

What does "not particularly complex" mean?

The phrase "not particularly complex" means something is relatively simple or straightforward, without many intricate details or difficult aspects. It implies that while it might not be the absolute easiest thing, it's also "not overly complicated".

How can I use "not particularly complex" in a sentence?

You can use "not particularly complex" to describe a task, process, or concept that is relatively easy to understand or execute. For example, "The installation process is "not particularly complex", even for beginners."

Which is correct: "not particularly complex" or "not very complex"?

Both "not particularly complex" and "not very complex" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. However, "not particularly complex" can sound slightly more formal or nuanced than "not very complex".

What are some alternatives to "not particularly complex"?

Some alternatives to "not particularly complex" include "relatively simple", "fairly straightforward", or "somewhat basic". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.