B1adjective1K

UK/["/ˈkɒmpleks/"]/US/["/kəmˈpleks//ˈkɑːmpleks/"]/

Meaning of Complex

In simple words: Something that has many parts and is hard to understand.

Complex in a sentence

  • The puzzle was too complex for me to solve.
  • She has a complex understanding of the topic.
  • The film's plot was quite complex, involving many subplots.
  • His emotions were complex, filled with both joy and sadness.
  • Building a house involves many complex processes and decisions.
  • Their relationship is complex and often difficult to understand.
  • The study of genetics is complex and requires a lot of background knowledge.

How to use Complex

Use 'complex' when describing things that are intricate or detailed. It's appropriate in academic and professional contexts but may feel overly formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'complex' as 'completely mixed' — it has many different parts mixed together.

Related words

Collocations with Complex

Synonyms for Complex

Opposites of Complex

Common mistakes with Complex

  • Confused with 'complicated' — 'complex' refers to multi-faceted or intricate, while 'complicated' often implies difficulty in understanding.
  • Using 'complex' inappropriately as a noun — 'complex' can describe things, but be careful not to treat it as a standalone noun.
  • Misunderstanding the context — using it for simple situations instead of for those with multiple elements.

Complex appears in

Complex in other languages

More words like Complex

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Frequently asked questions about Complex

What does Complex mean?

Something that has many parts and is hard to understand.

What is the definition of Complex?

made of many different things or parts that are connected; difficult to understand

How do you use Complex in a sentence?

The puzzle was too complex for me to solve.

Can you give another example of Complex?

She has a complex understanding of the topic.

What are synonyms for Complex?

Common alternatives include complicated.

What is the opposite of Complex?

Opposite meanings include simple, easy, straightforward.

What words go with Complex?

It commonly pairs with be, look, seem, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Complex?

Confused with 'complicated' — 'complex' refers to multi-faceted or intricate, while 'complicated' often implies difficulty in understanding. Using 'complex' inappropriately as a noun — 'complex' can describe things, but be careful not to treat it as a standalone noun. Misunderstanding the context — using it for simple situations instead of for those with multiple elements.

How do you pronounce Complex?

US: /["/kəmˈpleks//ˈkɑːmpleks/"]/, UK: /["/ˈkɒmpleks/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Complex?

Use 'complex' when describing things that are intricate or detailed. It's appropriate in academic and professional contexts but may feel overly formal in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Complex?

"Complex" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.