# complexity

/kəmˈpɫɛksəti/ (US) · /kəmplˈɛksɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/complexity
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the state of being complicated

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

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

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

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

### 2. a complicated feature

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

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

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

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

## Examples

- The complexity of the new software makes it hard to use.
- The legal team spent weeks analyzing the complexity of the international trade agreement before advising the client.
- Modern urban planning must account for the inherent complexity of social dynamics, infrastructure requirements, and environmental impact to create truly sustainable living spaces.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.