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Complexity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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complexity

[kษ™mหˆplษ›ksษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in education

The state or quality of being intricate or complicated. Complexity often refers to the difficulty of understanding something due to the presence of multiple interconnected elements or factors.

Synonyms

complication, difficulty, intricacy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
complexity

Used when talking about something with many interconnected parts or elements, usually in a neutral or academic context.

  • The complexity of modern computer systems is astounding
  • Understanding the complexity of human emotions can take years of study
intricacy

Used to describe something with detailed and complex parts, often implying artfulness and elegance.

  • The intricacy of the lacework was incredible
  • I marveled at the intricacy of the ancient manuscript's illustrations
complication

Used when referring to a secondary problem that arises which makes a situation or process more difficult, often in a negative way.

  • The surgery was successful, but there were some complications during the recovery period
  • Adding more variables to the equation introduced unnecessary complications
difficulty

Used when talking about something that requires a lot of effort or is challenging to achieve, often with a focus on the effort required.

  • She had difficulty understanding the new curriculum
  • The difficulty of the task was underestimated

Examples of usage

  • The complexity of the scientific theory made it challenging for students to grasp.
  • Her speech was filled with complexity, making it hard for the audience to follow.
  • The complexity of the problem required a team of experts to solve it.
Context #2 | Noun

in systems

The degree to which a system or process is complicated, involving a large number of interconnected parts or variables. Complexity theory studies how complex systems behave and evolve over time.

Synonyms

complication, intricacy, sophistication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
complexity

This word is typically used to describe something that has many interconnected parts and is difficult to understand or deal with. It is neutral and doesn't imply any specific cause of the difficulty.

  • The complexity of the human brain still baffles scientists.
  • Managing the complexity of a large project requires excellent organizational skills.
intricacy

This word highlights the fine details and elaborate parts of something, often implying a sense of appreciation for how detailed it is.

  • The intricacy of the lacework was stunning.
  • He explained the intricacies of quantum mechanics in a way that made it easier to understand.
complication

This term is used when something becomes more difficult due to unexpected difficulties or additional problems. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The surgery was successful, but there were some post-operative complications.
  • Trying to reach a deal with so many parties involved adds a lot of complications.
sophistication

Use this word to discuss something that is advanced, cultured, or refined. It often implies a high level of knowledge or cultural development.

  • The sophistication of her argument impressed everyone at the conference.
  • Modern smartphones have a level of sophistication that was unimaginable a decade ago.

Examples of usage

  • The complexity of the software program resulted in frequent errors.
  • Understanding the complexity of the ecosystem is crucial for conservation efforts.
  • Managing the complexity of the project requires effective coordination among team members.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In mathematics, complexity can refer to algorithms and their efficiency in solving problems, indicating how intricate a problem can be.
  • Biological systems often demonstrate complexity; ecosystems, for example, consist of various interdependent organisms and environments.
  • Complexity theory in physics explores how simple rules can lead to intricate behaviors in systems, illustrating a fundamental principle of nature.

Psychology

  • The idea of cognitive complexity relates to how people perceive and interpret the world, with more complex thinkers considering multiple perspectives.
  • Studies show that high levels of mental complexity can influence decision-making processes, as individuals assess varied outcomes.
  • Emotional complexity involves the ability to experience and understand multiple feelings at once, contributing to richer emotional lives.

Literature

  • Many authors use complexity in plots, where intertwining storylines create richer narratives, encouraging readers to engage deeply.
  • Classical works often explored the complexity of human nature, delving into the intricacies of character motivations and moral dilemmas.
  • In poetry, complexity enhances imagery and themes, allowing deeper interpretations and connections for the reader.

Technology

  • In software development, complexity management is essential to ensure systems remain functional and maintainable as they grow.
  • The field of artificial intelligence involves complexity in evolving algorithms to process data and learn from patterns.
  • Network systems exhibit complexity through the vast interconnections and dependencies across different devices and technologies.

Origin of 'complexity'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'complexus', meaning 'folded together', reflecting how different parts are interconnected.
  • The modern usage began in the 19th century, particularly in scientific and philosophical discussions.
  • In English, it was used to describe both physical structures and abstract ideas, showing its flexible application.

The word 'complexity' originated from the Latin word 'complexus', meaning 'entwined' or 'twisted together'. It first appeared in English in the mid-17th century. Over time, the term has been used to describe the intricate and interconnected nature of various phenomena, from academic theories to technological systems.

See also: complex, complexify, complexly, overcomplexity.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,776, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.