Words / B2

KOMPL-ik-ayt/ˈkɒmplɪkeɪt/

To complicate is to make something more difficult to understand or deal with: complicate matters; be complicated by. Complex is the adjective twin (already related); simplify is the opposite. Do not complicate the method; still log every step. Mix-up: complicate vs compliment; complete; do not write complicate for “make more interesting” when the source only means extra steps.

Meaning

To make something more difficult to understand or deal with.

Examples

• “Do not complicate the method; still log every step, the practical said.”
• “Flooding complicated the evacuation, the inquiry said, which is the extra-obstacle sense — still name the authority.”

Good to know

complicate matters; be complicated by; complication. Adjective: complicated / complex. Opposite: simplify. Trap: compliment. Methods, news, and citizenship. Make something more difficult, not “more exciting”.

Near in meaning

confuse, entangle, muddy

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