English Reference
adjective

complicated

adj.
US /ˈkɑmpɫəˌkeɪtəd/ UK /kˈɒmplɪkˌeɪtɪd/ com·pli·cat·ed

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    hard to understand or solve because it is not simple.

    consisting of many intricate parts or aspects that make something difficult to understand, explain, or deal with.

    Simple

    The instructions for the new coffee machine were very complicated and hard to follow.

    In context

    The legal dispute became increasingly complicated as more witnesses came forward with conflicting accounts of the incident.

  2. 02 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    a word used in science to describe insect wings that are folded lengthwise.

    describing insect wings that are folded longitudinally when at rest.

    Simple

    The scientist noted that the beetle had complicated wings tucked under its shell.

    In context

    In certain orders of insects, the complicated wing structure allows for efficient storage beneath the protective elytra.

    Usage

    Used primarily in entomology to describe structural morphology.

Usage complicated procedure

Being self-employed or  autónomo in Spain can be complicated with lots of questions coming up all the time, even if you've been freelance for a while.

The Local· 14 Aug 2026

And it’s very complicated, you have to be Albert Einstein to figure it out.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated