complicate

[ˈkɑːmplɪkeɪt]

complicate Definition

• 1. make (something) more difficult or confusing by causing it to be more complex
• 2. involve (someone) in difficulties or complicated circumstances, especially in a way that is undesirable or unhelpful

Using complicate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "complicate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The new regulations will only complicate matters.

• Example

  Her personal problems further complicated her work situation.

• Example

  The situation was already complicated, and his involvement only made it worse.

complicate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for complicate

• complexify
• entangle
• muddle
• perplex
• confuse

Antonyms for complicate

• clarify
• simplify

Idioms Using complicate

• complicate matters/further

  to make a situation more difficult or confusing

  Example

  His involvement only served to complicate matters further.

• complicate things

  to make a situation more difficult or complex than it needs to be

  Example

  Don't complicate things by adding unnecessary steps to the process.

• complicate one's life

  to make one's life more difficult or challenging than it needs to be

  Example

  She tends to complicate her life by taking on too many responsibilities at once.

Phrases with complicate

• complicate matters

  to make a situation more difficult or confusing

  Example

  His interference only served to complicate matters.

• complicated relationship

  a relationship that is difficult to understand or manage due to various factors such as emotional baggage, external circumstances, or conflicting expectations

  Example

  Their complicated relationship has been the subject of much speculation and gossip.

• complicated grief

  a type of grief that is prolonged, intense, and accompanied by feelings of guilt, anger, or hopelessness

  Example

  She was diagnosed with complicated grief after her husband's sudden death.

Origins of complicate

from Latin 'complicatus', past participle of 'complicare', meaning 'to fold together'

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Summary: complicate in Brief

To 'complicate' [ˈkɑːmplɪkeɪt] means to make something more difficult or confusing by adding complexity. It can also refer to involving someone in undesirable or unhelpful circumstances. Examples include 'The new regulations will only complicate matters,' and 'Her personal problems further complicated her work situation.' Phrases like 'complicate matters' and idioms like 'complicate things' emphasize the difficulty and confusion caused by the action.