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complicate

[ˈkɑːmplɪkeɪt]

complicate Definition

  • 1make (something) more difficult or confusing by causing it to be more complex
  • 2involve (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

Antonyms for complicate

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

How do native speakers use this expression?