very complex

USAGE SUMMARY

"very complex" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that is intricate or hard to understand. For example, "The tax regulations were very complex and difficult for the novice to understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Very complex architecture.

The New York Times

"It is very complex.

The New York Times

Very complex structure.

The Guardian - Books

"It gets very complex.

The New York Times

And very complex.

The New Yorker

It's legally very complex.

The Guardian - Sport

They are very complex".

The New York Times

It's very complex".

The New York Times - Food

It's very, very complex".

The Guardian

Mick is very complex.

The Guardian

It is very, very complex".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "very complex", consider whether a more specific adjective might provide a clearer understanding of the nature of the complexity. For instance, instead of "very complex system", try "intricate system" or "convoluted system".

Common error

Avoid using "very complex" as a vague descriptor. Always provide context or specifics to explain what makes something complex. Instead of simply stating "the problem is very complex", elaborate by saying "the problem is very complex due to multiple interdependent factors and conflicting data" or consider "complicated" or "difficult" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very complex" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It modifies nouns to indicate a high degree of intricacy, difficulty, or multifacetedness. Examples include describing "very complex architecture" or a "very complex situation".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very complex" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that effectively conveys the intricate nature of a subject. According to Ludwig AI, it is perfectly correct and usable. While widely applicable across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and professional settings, it's crucial to provide specific details to support the claim of complexity. Consider using alternatives such as "intricate", "sophisticated", or "involved" for greater precision, and avoid overuse to maintain clarity in your writing. Remember to support your claims by providing context and specifics about the "very complex" topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly intricate

This alternative emphasizes the detailed and elaborate nature of something, similar to "very complex" but with a focus on fine details.

exceedingly complicated

This phrase suggests a high degree of difficulty in understanding or dealing with something, emphasizing the challenging aspect of complexity.

remarkably sophisticated

This alternative highlights the advanced and refined nature of something, implying a level of complexity that requires skill or knowledge to understand.

incredibly elaborate

This phrase emphasizes the detailed and intricate nature of something, suggesting a high degree of artistry or craftsmanship.

exceptionally involved

This suggests a high degree of interconnectedness and difficulty, focusing on the many parts or aspects that contribute to the complexity.

terribly convoluted

This implies a confusing and unnecessarily complex structure, often with negative connotations.

seriously perplexing

This alternative emphasizes the confusing and baffling nature of something, focusing on the difficulty in understanding it.

mind-bogglingly intricate

This phrase uses hyperbole to emphasize the overwhelming complexity and detail of something.

demonstrably labyrinthine

This alternative compares something to a labyrinth, highlighting its intricate and confusing structure.

unfathomably multifaceted

This emphasizes the many different aspects or dimensions of something, suggesting a level of complexity that is difficult to fully grasp.

FAQs

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

You can use "very complex" to describe anything that is intricate, has many parts, or is difficult to understand. For example: "The instructions were "very complex"", or "The situation is "very complex" and requires careful consideration".

What are some alternatives to saying "very complex"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "intricate", "complicated", "sophisticated", or "involved". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "very complex" or "highly complex"?

Both "very complex" and "highly complex" are grammatically correct and acceptable. "Highly complex" might sound slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal. Choose the one that fits best with the tone and style of your writing.

Can "very complex" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "very complex" can be used in formal writing, but it's crucial to ensure that the context provides sufficient detail about the nature of the complexity. In some cases, a more precise or technical term might be preferable, depending on the audience and purpose.