What does "complexity" mean?

1. (the state of being complicated) the quality of having many different parts that are connected in a difficult way. 2. (a complicated feature) a specific part of something that is difficult to deal with or understand.

How do you use "complexity"?

Often used with the preposition 'of' followed by a noun phrase. Frequently used in the plural form 'complexities' to refer to various difficult aspects of a topic.

complexity

US //kəmˈpɫɛksəti// UK //kəmplˈɛksɪti// com·plex·i·ty

1 the state of being complicated (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

the quality of having many different parts that are connected in a difficult way.

the abstract state or quality of being intricate, multifaceted, or difficult to analyse. Uncountable in this general sense.

Example

The complexity of the new tax laws makes them very hard for most people to follow.

Example

The sheer complexity of the global supply chain means that a single disruption in one port can affect prices worldwide.

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'of' followed by a noun phrase.
- intricacy
- sophistication
- depth
- simplicity
- clarity
2 a complicated feature (n.)
C1 Advanced Academic Formal

a specific part of something that is difficult to deal with or understand.

a specific intricate detail or complication within a larger system. Countable in this sense.

Example

We need to consider all the complexities of the situation before we make a final decision.

Example

The legal team spent months navigating the complexities of the international merger to ensure full compliance with local regulations.

Usage

Frequently used in the plural form 'complexities' to refer to various difficult aspects of a topic.

Origin

From complex + -ity. Partially displaced native English manifoldness.