too elaborate

USAGE SUMMARY

The term 'too elaborate' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe something that is overly decorated, complex, or overdone. For example: The dress she wore to the wedding was too elaborate for the occasion.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's too elaborate.

The New York Times

But it was too elaborate.

The New Yorker

Secondly, their dress is far too elaborate.

The Guardian - Travel

(His criteria are too elaborate to be described).

The New Yorker

Then later on some eggs, but nothing too elaborate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

His story seemed too elaborate to be false.

The New York Times

And make sure your pots are not too elaborate.

The New York Times

"It need not be too elaborate," he said.

The New York Times

Erectile dysfunction (ED) prevalence is usually based on questionnaires, too elaborate for daily practice.

Journal of Diabetes and its Complications

Was the show still too elaborate, with those silken fringes and dangling flapper-girl pearls?

The New York Times

"But it began to get too elaborate, too detailed, too opinionated, and too irrational.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "too elaborate" when you want to suggest that something is unnecessarily complex or detailed for its purpose. It often implies a negative judgment, suggesting that simplicity would be more effective.

Common error

While "too elaborate" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your tone sound overly critical. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "complex" or "detailed" if you simply want to describe without judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "too elaborate" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It serves to describe something as excessively detailed or complicated, often implying a negative judgment. Ludwig examples show its application in diverse contexts, from describing dresses to plans and designs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "too elaborate" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something as excessively complex or detailed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While the phrase is generally neutral, it carries an evaluative tone, suggesting that a simpler approach might be more effective. When writing, consider the context and purpose to avoid overuse of "too elaborate" in formal settings, opting for more neutral alternatives if needed. Using this phrase effectively can help convey your critique of unnecessary complexity with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overly complex

Focuses on the excessive complexity of something.

unnecessarily detailed

Highlights the unneeded level of detail.

excessively ornate

Emphasizes the excessive decoration or embellishment.

over the top

Indicates something is beyond what is appropriate or necessary.

needlessly complicated

Points out the unnecessary complication of something.

unduly intricate

Stresses the excessive intricacy.

exaggerated

Suggests something is overstated or blown out of proportion.

overdone

Indicates something has been taken too far.

contrived

Implies something is artificially elaborate and not natural.

affected

Suggests something is artificial and designed to impress.

FAQs

How can I use "too elaborate" in a sentence?

You can use "too elaborate" to describe plans, designs, or explanations that are more complex than necessary. For example, "The wedding decorations were "excessively ornate", and the cake was "over the top"".

What can I say instead of "too elaborate"?

You can use alternatives like "overly complex", "unnecessarily detailed", or ""excessively ornate"" depending on the context.

Is it better to be simple or "too elaborate"?

It depends on the situation. Sometimes, simplicity is key, and being "too elaborate" can detract from the message or purpose. Other times, a degree of complexity or detail might be necessary to convey nuances or ensure accuracy. Context dictates which approach is most effective.

What's the difference between "too elaborate" and "complex"?

"Complex" simply describes something with many parts or layers. "Too elaborate" implies that the complexity is unnecessary or excessive, suggesting that a simpler approach would be better.