com‧plex 1 S3 W2 AC / kɒmpleks $ kɑmpleks◂ / 形容词

1 consisting of many different parts and often difficult to understand 同义词 complicated 反义词 simple :

a complex system of highways

Photosynthesis is a highly complex process.

Peter seemed to have an instant understanding of the most complex issues.

It was a very complex relationship between two complex people.

2 technical a complex word or sentence contains a main part and one or more other parts → compound

THESAURUS

complicated consisting of a lot of different parts or details and therefore difficult to understand : The rules of the game seemed very complicated. | I didn’t realize programming the VCR would be so complicated. | The brain is like a very powerful, very complicated computer. | a complicated issue

complex a complex process, relationship etc is difficult to understand because it has a lot of parts that are all connected in different ways : The chemical processes involved are extremely complex. | the complex relationship between government and the media

elaborate having a lot of parts or details and very carefully planned, but often more complicated than is necessary : Mike had worked out an elaborate system for categorizing his collection of DVDs. | The plan to kidnap her had become even more elaborate. | Sociologists have been coming up with increasingly elaborate theories to explain unsafe sexual practices.

involved very long and complicated – use this especially about something that you think should be made simpler : The system for choosing candidates is very involved, and I won’t go into it here. | Adopting a child can be a long involved process.

convoluted too complicated and difficult to understand – used especially about someone’s language or arguments, or about a system : convoluted sentences | Procedures for government funding have become more convoluted. | James’s books are full of long paragraphs and convoluted sentences, which many people do not find appealing.

intricate having a lot of small parts or details – used especially about something that is cleverly designed or made : Lasers are used to cut intricate designs in the metal. | The farmers use an intricate system of drainage canals. | the intricate workings of a watch | intricate patterns of coloured marble