to be complicated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be complicated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that has many parts or is difficult to understand. Example: "The instructions for assembling the furniture seem to be complicated, making it hard for beginners to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nature tends to be complicated this way.

The New York Times

So it's going to be complicated.

The New York Times

Surely not everything needs to be complicated.

The New York Times

Those feelings turn out to be complicated.

The New York Times - Books

But direction turns out to be complicated.

The Guardian - Books

Is it going to be complicated?

The New Yorker

LIFE doesn't always have to be complicated.

The New York Times - Food

But the simple proved to be complicated.

The New York Times

They want things to be complicated.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Voting doesn't have to be complicated.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I didn't want them to be complicated".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to be complicated", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is causing the complication. Provide specifics to enhance clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "to be complicated" when a simpler term like "difficult" or "complex" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be complicated" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically used as a predicate adjective complementing a subject. It describes a state of being, indicating that something possesses a complex or difficult nature. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

29%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "to be complicated" is a grammatically correct and frequently used infinitive phrase to describe situations or concepts that are not straightforward. Ludwig confirms its validity and high applicability. It functions primarily to express complexity or difficulty in understanding and carries a neutral formality level, making it suitable for various contexts from news media to scientific publications. While versatile, it's important to use the phrase judiciously and avoid overusing it when simpler alternatives would suffice. Common synonyms include "to be complex" and "to be intricate". By understanding its purpose and typical usage, writers can effectively use "to be complicated" to convey nuanced meanings in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be complex

Highlights the multiple elements and interconnectedness of something.

to be intricate

Emphasizes the detailed and elaborate nature of something.

to be elaborate

Focuses on the detailed and carefully arranged nature of something.

to be convoluted

Emphasizes the confusing and intricate nature of something.

to be involved

Suggests that something requires significant effort or understanding.

to be sophisticated

Highlights the advanced and refined nature of something.

to be knotty

Implies something is full of difficulties and complications.

to be difficult to grasp

Focuses on the challenge of understanding something.

to be problematic

Indicates something causes difficulties or raises concerns.

to be Byzantine

Suggests excessive complexity and secretiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "to be complicated" in a sentence?

You can use "to be complicated" to describe a situation, process, or concept that is not straightforward. For example, "The instructions seem "difficult to follow" because they are "to be complicated"".

What are some alternatives to "to be complicated"?

Alternatives include "to be complex", "to be intricate", "to be involved", or "to be difficult". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "to be complicated" or "to become complicated"?

"To be complicated" describes a current state, while "to become complicated" describes a process of becoming complex. The choice depends on whether you're describing an existing complexity or a developing one.

What's the difference between "to be complicated" and "to be complex"?

While similar, "to be complicated" often suggests difficulty in understanding or resolving something, whereas "to be complex" simply indicates that something has many interconnected parts or aspects. They are often interchangeable, but "to be complicated" carries a slightly more negative connotation.