labyrinth

/'læbərinθ/

Thân thiện

The child walks through the labyrinth in the garden.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A complex structure of interconnected passages or paths in which it is difficult to find one's way; a maze: A physical construction designed to confuse and challenge navigation.
   • (Anatomy) A complex system of interconnecting cavities or canals, specifically in the inner ear: This structure is concerned with hearing and equilibrium (balance).

Usage

• The word "labyrinth" is used to describe both physical places that are confusing to navigate and, in a specialized anatomical context, a specific part of the inner ear.
• It can also be used metaphorically to describe any complex and confusing situation, process, or set of rules.

Examples

• Physical Maze:
  • The garden featured a large hedge labyrinth that visitors loved to explore.
  • Getting through the bureaucratic labyrinth to obtain a visa was exhausting.
• Anatomical Structure:
  • The bony labyrinth of the inner ear contains the cochlea and the vestibular system.
• Metaphorical Use:
  • The novel's plot was a fascinating labyrinth of secrets and lies.

Advanced Usage

• "Labyrinthine" (Adjective): Having the characteristics of a labyrinth; intricate, complicated, and winding.
  • The labyrinthine corridors of the old castle were impossible to navigate without a guide.
  • The legal process was labyrinthine in its complexity.

Variants and Related Words

• Labyrinthian (adj): A less common synonym for "labyrinthine," meaning extremely intricate or complicated.
• Maze (n): A close synonym for the physical structure, though "maze" often implies a puzzle with choices, while "labyrinth" can imply a single, winding, unavoidable path.

Synonyms

• Maze: A network of paths and hedges designed as a puzzle.
• Tangle: A confused mass of intertwined threads or a complicated situation.
• Web: A complex network of fine threads or a complicated arrangement.
• Complex: A group of interconnected buildings or a complicated system.

Antonyms

• Straight line: A direct, unobstructed path.
• Clarity: The quality of being clear and easy to understand.
• Simplicity: The quality or condition of being easy to understand or do.

Idioms and Phrases

• A labyrinth of red tape: An idiom describing excessively complex bureaucratic rules and procedures.
  • Starting a business here means navigating a labyrinth of red tape.
• To be lost in a labyrinth of one's own thoughts: To be deeply confused or entangled in complex, circular thinking.
  • After the shocking news, he was lost in a labyrinth of his own thoughts for days.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a complex system of interconnecting cavities; concerned with hearing and equilibrium
2. complex system of paths or tunnels in which it is easy to get lost

Từ đồng nghĩa

• inner ear
• internal ear
• maze