overblown complexity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overblown complexity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, concept, or system that is unnecessarily complicated or exaggerated in its complexity. Example: "The report was criticized for its overblown complexity, making it difficult for stakeholders to understand the key findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In its overblown complexity and constant arch reference points to other works in the author's canon, it can read like a stubborn effort to write the definitive Murakami, the Great Japanese Novel.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It gets overblown sometimes".

The New York Times - Sports

That is overblown.

The Economist

This argument is overblown.

The New York Times

The description seems overblown.

The New York Times

This worry is overblown.

The Economist

An overblown wildness reigned.

The New York Times - Arts

It's overblown.

The New York Times

His writing became overblown.

The New Yorker

That is perhaps overblown.

The Economist

This, though, seems overblown.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overblown complexity", ensure the context clearly demonstrates why the complexity is unnecessary or excessive. Provide specific examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "overblown complexity" when simply describing something complex. The phrase implies a negative judgment about the unnecessary or exaggerated nature of the complexity. Only use it when that negative connotation is intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overblown complexity" functions as a descriptive phrase, where "overblown" modifies "complexity". Ludwig shows that it is primarily used to criticize or negatively evaluate a system, concept, or process that is perceived as unnecessarily complicated.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "overblown complexity" is a descriptive phrase used to negatively evaluate situations or concepts that are unnecessarily complicated. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase carries a critical connotation and should be used when the intention is to express disapproval of excessive intricacy. While grammatically correct, its usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly supports the claim that the complexity is indeed unnecessary or exaggerated. Consider alternatives such as "unnecessary complication" or "excessive intricacy" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unnecessary complication

Focuses on the lack of necessity in the complexity.

excessive intricacy

Highlights the extreme level of detail involved.

needless convolution

Emphasizes the winding and confusing nature of the complexity.

gratuitous elaboration

Suggests the complexity is added without a good reason.

unwarranted sophistication

Implies the complexity is more advanced than required.

undue complexity

Highlights the inappropriate degree of complexity.

exaggerated complexity

Focuses on the overstatement of how complex something is.

inflated intricacy

Similar to exaggerated complexity, but uses intricacy.

artificial complexity

Indicates the complexity is man-made and not naturally occurring.

contrived complexity

Highlights the artificial and deliberately created nature of the complexity.

FAQs

How to use "overblown complexity" in a sentence?

You can use "overblown complexity" to describe situations where something is unnecessarily complicated. For example, "The project suffered from "overblown complexity", leading to delays and budget overruns."

What can I say instead of "overblown complexity"?

You can use alternatives like "unnecessary complication", "excessive intricacy", or "needless convolution" depending on the context.

Is "overblown complexity" a negative term?

Yes, "overblown complexity" carries a negative connotation, implying that the complexity is excessive and unwarranted. It suggests that something is more complicated than it needs to be.

What's the difference between "complexity" and "overblown complexity"?

"Complexity" simply refers to the state of being complicated. "Overblown complexity", on the other hand, suggests that the complexity is exaggerated or unnecessary. The addition of "overblown" adds a layer of criticism.