Complicate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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complicate
[ˈkɒmplɪkeɪt ]
Definitions
making something more complex
To make something more difficult or confusing by adding more parts or details. To make a process or situation more involved or intricate.
Synonyms
complexify, convolute, muddle.
Examples of usage
- He tends to complicate things by overthinking.
- Don't complicate matters by bringing up irrelevant details.
- The new regulations will only complicate the process further.
increase difficulty
To make something harder to understand or deal with. To add complexity to a situation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His evasive answers only complicate the issue.
- Her sudden change of plans complicated our schedule.
- The unexpected twist in the plot complicated the storyline.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Complicated situations can lead to cognitive overload, where too much information makes decision-making difficult.
- Studies show that complexity in tasks can affect motivation; simpler tasks often lead to higher engagement.
Pop Culture
- The complexities of human relationships are often explored in songs, books, and movies, illustrating how emotions can complicate life.
- Reality TV shows often depict complicated situations that lead to dramatic outcomes, highlighting how conflict can arise from misunderstandings.
Science
- In biology, systems often involve complicated interactions between organisms, making ecosystems difficult to predict.
- Complicated mathematical formulas are often used in physics to explain complex phenomena, showing how intricately linked scientific concepts can be.
Literature
- Classic novels often introduce complicated plots with multiple characters' perspectives, challenging readers to understand various motivations.
- Modern literature frequently embraces complexity in storytelling, with non-linear narratives that reflect the messiness of real life.
Origin of 'complicate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'complicare', which means 'to fold together', indicating how things can become tangled.
- It entered English in the late 15th century, originally used to describe physical situations like folded objects, then later applied to abstract concepts.
The word 'complicate' originated from the Latin word 'complicare', which means 'to fold together'. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent the act of making something more intricate or difficult. The use of 'complicate' in English dates back to the 17th century, where it was used to describe the process of adding complexity to a situation or concept.