that sounds complex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that sounds complex" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when responding to a statement or idea that appears intricate or difficult to understand. Example: "The project involves multiple layers of data analysis and integration. I must admit, that sounds complex."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Battling monsters, recruiting a crew, and casting spells by matching tiles in this action/puzzler that sounds complex, but is actually glorious fun.

The Guardian - Tech

If you think that sounds complex, you're right.

The New York Times - Arts

That sounds complex to me.

Huffington Post

While that sounds complex, you could simply think of your paradigm as the rules or guidelines for living your life, adjusting to conflict and overcoming challenges.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

After categorising different types of leaf, Wilkinson gives recipes for his five essential dressings, including a simple lemon dressing and salad cream, before launching into recipes that sound complex and exotic but are technically simple and incredibly inventive: sesame-fried asparagus with sashimi and miso, radishes and chilli, pickled octopus, avocado and cauliflower.

Independent

Yes, it sounds complex... but that's how you think outside of the box in a deep business situation.

Huffington Post

If the technology sounds complex.

The New York Times

If it sounds complex, it is.

The New York Times

It sounds complex, but they do something similar in Scotland, and it works.

Independent

If it sounds complex, it isn't; it's designed so anyone can play.

TechCrunch

While it sounds complex, the installation process is actually rather simple.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that sounds complex" when you want to acknowledge that something may be difficult to understand at first glance, but don't want to discourage further exploration or explanation. It's a polite way to express potential difficulty.

Common error

Avoid dismissing an idea or process simply because "that sounds complex". Instead, use it as an opportunity to ask clarifying questions and gain a better understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that sounds complex" primarily functions as a commentary or reaction to a statement or explanation, indicating the speaker's perception of intricacy or difficulty. As Ludwig AI suggests, it acknowledges perceived complexity without necessarily judging it negatively. It can be used in various contexts, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that sounds complex" is a versatile phrase used to acknowledge perceived intricacy. As pointed out by Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically correct and suitable for a range of contexts. While often used in neutral or informal settings, its application can extend to professional environments when used thoughtfully. The phrase invites clarification, displays engagement, and opens a conversation, serving as a useful tool for navigating potentially challenging information. Remember to use the phrase carefully, ensuring that your tone remains inquisitive and that you genuinely want to understand the concept, and not as a way to dismiss something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that seems complicated

Simple substitution of 'sounds' for 'seems' and 'complex' for 'complicated'.

that is rather complex

Adds 'rather' to soften the statement.

that appears intricate

Replaces 'sounds' with 'appears' and 'complex' with 'intricate', emphasizing visual assessment of complexity.

that is arguably complex

Adds 'arguably' to indicate that the complexity is debatable.

that looks complicated

Focuses on visual complexity rather than aural, substituting 'sounds' with 'looks'.

that gives the impression of complexity

More verbose, highlights the conveyed sense of complexity.

that presents itself as complex

Emphasizes the active presentation of complexity.

that is seemingly complex

Adds 'seemingly' to indicate potential deceptive simplicity beneath the surface.

that has a complex nature

Focuses on the inherent nature of complexity.

that's not exactly simple

Uses understatement to convey complexity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "that sounds complex" to be more encouraging?

You can try phrases like "that sounds challenging" or "that sounds interesting" depending on the context. These alternatives can make the other person more open to explaining the topic.

Is "that sounds complex" appropriate in a professional setting?

Yes, "that sounds complex" is acceptable in professional environments, especially when genuinely trying to understand something. However, ensure your tone is inquisitive and respectful, not dismissive.

What's a more formal way to say "that sounds complex"?

A more formal alternative is "that appears to be intricate" or "that presents as complex". These options use more sophisticated vocabulary and syntax.

When should I avoid using "that sounds complex"?

Avoid using "that sounds complex" when you haven't given the idea any consideration or if your tone is condescending. It can come across as dismissive if not used carefully.