complicated

/'kɔmplikeitid/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
complicated

The teacher draws a complicated diagram on the whiteboard.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Consisting of many interconnected parts or elements; intricate: Describes something that is not simple, having multiple components, steps, or factors that are combined in a complex way.
    • Difficult to analyze, understand, or explain: Describes a situation, problem, or concept that is not straightforward and is therefore confusing or hard to unravel.
Usage
  • The adjective "complicated" is used to describe nouns. It often implies that something is more complex than necessary or expected.
  • It is commonly used with abstract nouns like , , , , , and .
  • It can be used in both attributive position (before a noun) and predicative position (after a linking verb like , , ).
Examples
  • Attributive use (before a noun):
    • The assembly instructions were far too complicated for a beginner.
    • They are dealing with a complicated legal issue involving international law.
  • Predicative use (after a linking verb):
    • The plot of the movie became increasingly complicated.
    • Her feelings for him are very complicated.
Advanced Usage
  • "to complicate matters": A phrase used to introduce an additional factor that makes a situation more difficult.
    • The weather was bad, and to complicate matters, our car broke down.
  • "It's complicated.": A common, often informal, statement used to describe a personal situation (especially a relationship) that is difficult to explain simply.
    • "Are you two dating?" "Well, it's complicated."
Variants and Related Words
  • Complicate (verb): To make something more complex or difficult.
    • Please don't complicate the issue with unnecessary details.
  • Complication (noun): A factor that complicates a situation; a problem or difficulty.
    • The surgery was successful with no complications.
  • Uncomplicated (adjective): Simple and straightforward; not complex.
    • He has an uncomplicated view of life.
Synonyms
  • Complex: Having many interconnected parts; intricate. (Often interchangeable, but "complex" can be more neutral, while "complicated" often implies unnecessary difficulty.)
  • Intricate: Very detailed and complicated in design or structure.
  • Convoluted: Extremely complex and difficult to follow (often with a negative connotation).
  • Involved: Complicated in nature; difficult to comprehend because of interconnected parts.
Antonyms
  • Simple: Easily understood or done; not complicated.
  • Straightforward: Uncomplicated and easy to understand or do.
  • Clear: Easy to perceive, understand, or interpret.
complicated

The teacher draws a complicated diagram on the whiteboard.

Adjective
  1. difficult to analyze or understand
    • a complicated problem
    • complicated Middle East politics