slightly complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly complex" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has a moderate level of complexity, indicating that it is not overly simple but also not extremely complicated. Example: "The instructions for the new software are slightly complex, requiring some prior knowledge to fully understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Predictably, this slightly complex message about bolstering women's sexual power through use of misogynist insults was overlooked.

The Guardian - Opinion

Prepared this way, the white clam pizza, once lightly salted, was remarkable: Fresh, sweet seafood played beautifully against olive oil, oregano, parsley and Parmigiano, with the crust adding a slightly complex foil.

The New York Times

Until Mr. Sutter got his green card in 1993, he and Mr. Blair devised a slightly complex way allowing Mr. Sutter to stay: together they would book six foreign cruises a year, so that they could get their passports stamped and thus be able to extend Mr. Sutter's visa.

The New York Times

Downloading the applications is slightly complex, although they are available at Handmark.com.com

TechCrunch

The study of dynamic and transient behavior is slightly complex and is useful when coupled with high fidelity models.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

However Yuilop/UppTalk uses a slightly complex virtual currency model for when users are talking to non-Yuilop/UppTalk users, based around generating what it calls "energy" credits.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

We are currently working on adapting SeqFIRE to identify such slightly-complex CDIs.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

However, these proteins also harbor a large number of "slightly-complex" indels, among which some potentially useful CDIs might exist.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

A slightly smaller complex (3) at 488±3 kDa appeared to contain all three proteins and a smaller complex containing ACE2 only was detected at 376±6 kDa (4).

Biochemical Journal

Then there is the slightly more complex "double marginalization" theory.

The New York Times

Kiros's recipe is just slightly more complex.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slightly complex", ensure the context clarifies the specific aspect of complexity. For example, instead of saying "the algorithm is slightly complex", specify "the algorithm's integration with existing systems is slightly complex."

Common error

Avoid using "slightly complex" when the subject is actually very simple or extremely complicated. This phrase is best suited for situations with a moderate level of complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly complex" functions as a compound adjective, modifying a noun to indicate a moderate level of difficulty or intricacy. Ludwig's examples show its usage across various contexts, reinforcing its adjectival role.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly complex" is a useful phrase for describing something that is moderately intricate or difficult. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media and scientific sources, reflecting its versatility. While there are many alternatives, such as "somewhat intricate" or "moderately complicated", choosing the right one depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies the specific area of complexity to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat intricate

Uses 'intricate' to emphasize detailed and elaborate complexity, suggesting a delicate arrangement of elements.

moderately complicated

Emphasizes the presence of elements that make understanding or execution not straightforward.

a bit involved

Suggests the process or situation needs considerable attention and effort, implying complexity through engagement.

not entirely straightforward

Directly contrasts simplicity, suggesting some degree of complication.

relatively knotty

Draws an analogy to knots, which implies the issue is tangled or difficult to unravel.

a little tricky

Signifies something that might require careful handling and potentially cause minor difficulties.

mildly convoluted

Highlights complexity of intertwining and overlapping elements or arguments.

marginally labyrinthine

Emphasizes something resembling a labyrinth, with winding and intricate passages or considerations.

just a touch Byzantine

Alludes to Byzantine complexity, indicating intricacy and secretiveness that can be confusing.

a tad sophisticated

Highlights refinement and intricacy in thought or design, possibly needing expertise for full understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly complex" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly complex" to describe something that has a moderate level of intricacy or difficulty. For example: "The instructions for the new software are "slightly complex", requiring some prior knowledge to fully understand."

What can I say instead of "slightly complex"?

You can use alternatives like "somewhat intricate", "moderately complicated", or "a bit involved" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "slightly complex" or "a little complex"?

Both ""slightly complex"" and "a little complex" are correct. The choice depends on the desired nuance, with "slightly" suggesting a more precise degree of complexity than "a little".

What's the difference between "slightly complex" and "somewhat complex"?

"Slightly complex" indicates a marginal level of complexity, whereas "somewhat complex" can suggest a more noticeable or significant level of complexity.