What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complex
Example
The human brain is a complex organ. [complex: adjective]
Example
The instructions for assembling the furniture were too complex for me to follow. [complex: adjective]
Example
Her personality is complex, with many layers and contradictions. [complex: adjective]
convoluted
Example
The convoluted maze of pipes made it difficult to fix the plumbing issue. [convoluted: adjective]
Example
The professor's lecture was so convoluted that I couldn't understand the main point. [convoluted: adjective]
Example
The convoluted plot of the movie left me feeling confused and frustrated. [convoluted: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complex is more commonly used than convoluted in everyday language, and is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between complex and convoluted?
Both complex and convoluted are formal words that are typically used in academic or technical writing, although complex can also be used in casual conversation.
