Complicated

Definition

Complicated is an adjective that describes something that is complex, difficult to understand, or consisting of many interconnected parts. It is often used to refer to situations, systems, or processes that are challenging to analyze or resolve.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑmplɪˌkeɪtɪd/
• Respelling: KOM-pli-kay-tid

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmplɪkeɪtɪd/
• Respelling: KOM-pli-kay-tid

Etymology

The word "complicated" originates from the Latin "complicatus," the past participle of "complicare," meaning "to fold together" or "entwine." The term entered Middle English through Old French in the 15th century, carrying the sense of being complex or intricate.

Derivatives

• Complication (noun)
• Complicate (verb)
• Complicatedly (adverb)
• Complicative (adjective)
• Uncomplicated (adjective)

Synonyms

• Complex
• Intricate
• Puzzling

Antonyms

• Simple
• Easy
• Clear

Usage

The term "complicated" is frequently used to describe situations, systems, or tasks that require considerable thought to understand or resolve. For example, "The instructions for assembling the furniture were too complicated," or "The plot of the movie was complicated and hard to follow."

Related Terms

• Complexity: The state of being complex or difficult to understand.
• Difficulty: The quality or state of requiring effort or skill to accomplish.
• Intricacy: Details or elements that make something complex or elaborate.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Consisting of many interconnected parts; intricate: Refers to something that has multiple elements or factors that make it challenging to analyze or solve.
  • Example: "The machine’s design is complicated and requires expert handling."
• Difficult to understand or explain: Describes something that requires considerable thought or effort to comprehend.
  • Example: "The scientific theory was too complicated for the general audience."