Intricate
Watch movements, family feuds, and tax law all reward the person who can hold many small parts in mind without losing the whole picture.
Learn This WordMeaning
Very complicated or detailed; having many interrelated parts or facets.
Memory trick
Think "IN-TRI-CATE" = "IN THREE CATEGORIES", intricate things have many parts in multiple categories. Or "INTRICATE = IN TRICK", so detailed it's tricky.
Examples
The watch mechanism was incredibly intricate, with hundreds of tiny parts.
She created an intricate pattern of lace by hand.
The plot of the novel was intricate, with multiple interconnected storylines.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin intricatus "entangled," from in- "into" + tricae "perplexities, tricks."
Usage Notes
Used to describe things with complex details or elaborate design, often implying skill or craftsmanship.
Real-life contexts
Describe detailed work: "The design is incredibly intricate."
Use for complex systems: "The legal process is intricate."
Compliment craftsmanship: "This intricate embroidery is beautiful."
Common Mistakes
Intricate implies complexity with detail, not just difficulty. Something can be intricate but not necessarily hard.
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Start LearningQuick Facts
Part of Speech
adjective
Difficulty
intermediateMonthly Searches
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