recognize the complexity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "recognize the complexity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation, issue, or concept that has multiple layers or factors that need to be understood. Example: "In order to address the problem effectively, we must first recognize the complexity of the various factors involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

They recognize the complexity of scientific thinking and integrate a complex set of skills and attitudes into their understanding of the process of science.

CBE Life Sciences Education

In the end, the biggest lesson of all should be to recognize the complexity of our relationship with China.

The New York Times

They do not recognize the complexity of issues or institutions: in many cases their knowledge is slight.

The New Yorker

"We have to admit that we failed to recognize the complexity and danger of the processes going on in our country and the world as a whole.

The New York Times

According to people who have spoken to government investigators, prosecutors in the Enron case recognize the complexity presented by the reliance on accountants and lawyers, but nevertheless are actively exploring bringing accounting fraud charges.

The New York Times

Even as they rightly deplore the injustice of the occupation and last year's war in Gaza, they fail to recognize the complexity of trying to reach a final resolution when the Palestinians are so deeply and ruinously divided and when so many Israeli supporters of a two-state solution have, after Oslo, Camp David, and Taba, despaired of getting a workable deal.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

But we clearly recognize the complexities, and ways to misinterpret and spin results.

The New York Times

I do think we're going to see a split between those candidates who have the experience to recognize the complexities, and those who are just determined to play the politics on this one".

The New York Times

Young people recognize the complexities of these frameworks and the associated processes.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

Many foundations and private entities do not recognize the complexities of this epidemic.

Huffington Post

First, we need to be able to recognize the complexities of the social relationships that surround us in society and in the workplace.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "recognize the complexity", ensure you are prepared to address specific aspects of that complexity, not just acknowledge its existence. For example, instead of just saying "we recognize the complexity of the issue", follow up with some examples like "we recognize the complexity of the issue, including economic, social and environmental factors".

Common error

Avoid using "recognize the complexity" as a mere platitude without demonstrating actual understanding. If you state that something is complex, be ready to illustrate why and how. For example, avoid sentences like "We recognize the complexity" without the necessary supporting information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "recognize the complexity" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action or state of acknowledging the intricate and multifaceted nature of a subject. Ludwig's examples show it often precedes a deeper analysis or proposed solution.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "recognize the complexity" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as Ludwig AI confirms. While not exceedingly common, it appears frequently in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a formal or neutral register. It serves to emphasize the multifaceted nature of a topic before further discussion or analysis. To use the phrase effectively, avoid stating it as a platitude, but instead, showcase what those complexities are to add substance. Alternative phrases such as "acknowledge the intricacy" or "appreciate the nuance", could be also effective alternatives to the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acknowledge the intricacy

Focuses on the detailed and complicated nature of something, instead of its overall complexity.

appreciate the nuance

Highlights the subtle differences and variations, implying a deeper understanding than simply recognizing complexity.

understand the multifaceted nature

Emphasizes the many different aspects or sides of something, synonymous with complexity.

grasp the subtleties

Focuses on understanding the finer points and hidden aspects within the complexity.

comprehend the depth

Highlights the profundity and layers of understanding required, rather than just acknowledging complexity.

be aware of the complications

Focuses on the difficulties and problems arising from the complexity.

realize the implications

Shifts the focus to understanding the consequences and effects stemming from the complexity.

fathom the intricacies

Emphasizes the effort required to fully understand the detailed and complex aspects.

perceive the multifaceted dimensions

Highlights perceiving the multiple layers, aspects, or perspectives of a situation or problem.

see the bigger picture

Implies understanding how all the complex elements fit together into a larger context.

FAQs

How can I use "recognize the complexity" in a sentence?

You can use "recognize the complexity" to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of a topic. For example: "Scientists must "recognize the complexity" of climate change to develop effective solutions."

What are some alternatives to "recognize the complexity"?

Alternatives include "acknowledge the intricacy", "appreciate the nuance", or "understand the multifaceted nature", depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey.

Is it better to say "recognize the complexity" or "understand the complexity"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "understand the complexity" suggests a deeper level of comprehension than simply acknowledging it. "Recognize the complexity" implies awareness, while understanding suggests insight.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use "recognize the complexity"?

The phrase is useful in situations where issues are multifaceted and require a nuanced approach. It's often used in academic, scientific, or policy discussions when acknowledging the layers of a problem is crucial before proposing solutions.