Words / B1

KOMPL-ik-ayt-id/ˈkɒmplɪkeɪtɪd/

Complicated means difficult because of many parts: a complicated form; more complicated than. Complex is already in the dictionary and is close; complex can also be a noun (a sports complex). Simple is the opposite. Complicate is the verb. Do not call a short yes/no question complicated. Complication is a resulting problem (medical or general).

Meaning

Difficult to understand or deal with because of many parts.

Examples

• “The visa form is more complicated than the website suggests.”
• “The visa form is more complicated than the website admits.”
• “Keep the explanation simple; a complicated diagram lost the examiner.”

Good to know

a complicated process / form. Close: complex. Verb: complicate. Opposite: simple. Resulting problem: a complication.

Near in meaning

complex

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