B2adjectiveformal2K

Sophisticated

UK /["/səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/"]/US /["/səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/"]/

Definition

clever and complicated in the way that it works or is presented

In simple words: Very advanced or complex.

Examples

  • highly sophisticated computer systems
  • Medical techniques are becoming more sophisticated all the time.
  • the sophisticated pleasures of city life
  • Mark is a smart and sophisticated young man.
  • Ben did his best to look sophisticated.
  • He has a very smooth, sophisticated manner.
  • Students have more sophisticated tastes nowadays.
  • a sophisticated audience

Usage notes

Use 'sophisticated' to describe people, ideas, or systems that are highly developed. It's often used in formal contexts, like academics or business. Avoid using it in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think 'so fishy, dated' — imagine a classy seafood dinner that's very well-prepared.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • elegant
  • cultivated
  • refined
  • advanced
  • polished

Antonyms

  • simple
  • naive
  • unsophisticated

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'suffisticated' - which is not a real word.
  • Using 'sophisticated' when 'simple' is more appropriate.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'sophistocated'.